Virtual and Augmented Reality in Medical Education

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are two contemporary simulation models that are currently upgrading medical education. VR provides a 3D and dynamic view of structures and the ability of the user to interact with them. The recent technological advances in haptics, display systems, and motion detection allow the user to have a realistic and interactive experience, enabling VR to be ideal for training in hands-on procedures. Consequently, surgical and other interventional procedures are the main fields of application of VR. AR provides the ability of projecting virtual information and structures over physical objects, thus enhancing or altering the real environment. The integration of AR applications in the understanding of anatomical structures and physiological mechanisms seems to be beneficial. Studies have tried to demonstrate the validity and educational effect of many VR and AR applications, in many different areas, employed via various hardware platforms. Some of them even propose a curriculum that integrates these methods. This chapter provides a brief history of VR and AR in medicine, as well as the principles and standards of their function. Finally, the studies that show the effect of the implementation of these methods in different fields of medical training are summarized and presented

Medical Robotics for use in MRI Guided Endoscopy

Interventional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a developing field that aims to provide intra-operative MRI to a clinician to guide diagnostic or therapeutic medical procedures. MRI provides excellent soft tissue contrast at sub-millimetre resolution in both 2D and 3D without the need for ionizing radiation. Images can be acquired in near real-time for guidance purposes. Operating in the MR environment brings challenges due to the high static magnetic field, switching magnetic field gradients and RF excitation pulses. In addition high field closed bore scanners have spatial constraints that severely limit access to the patient. This thesis presents a system for MRI-guided Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP). This includes a remote actuation system that enables an MRI-compatible endoscope to be controlled whilst the patient is inside the MRI scanner, overcoming the spatial and procedural constraints imposed by the closed scanner bore. The modular system utilises non-magnetic ultrasonic motors and is designed for image-guided user-in-the-loop control. A novel miniature MRI compatible clutch has been incorporated into the design to reduce the need for multiple parallel motors. The actuation system is MRI compatible does not degrade the MR images below acceptable levels. User testing showed that the actuation system requires some degree of training but enables completion of a simulated ERCP procedure with no loss of performance. This was demonstrated using a tailored ERCP simulator and kinematic assessment tool, which was validated with users from a range of skill levels to ensure that it provides an objective measurement of endoscopic skill. Methods of tracking the endoscope in real-time using the MRI scanner are explored and presented here. Use of the MRI-guided ERCP system was shown to improve the operator’s ability to position the endoscope in an experimental environment compared with a standard fluoroscopic-guided system.Open Acces

A. Training Simulators for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: Current and Future Perspectives

Over the last decades, visual endoscopy has become a gold standard for the detection and treatment of gastrointestinal cancers. However, mastering endoscopic procedures is complex and requires long hours of practice. In this context, simulation-based training represents a valuable opportunity for acquiring technical and cognitive skills, suiting the different trainees’ learning pace and limiting the risks for the patients. In this regard, the present contribution aims to present a critical and comprehensive review of the current technology for gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy training, including both commercial products and platforms at a research stage. Not limited to it, the recent revolution played by the technological advancements in the fields of robotics, artificial intelligence, virtual/augmented reality, and computational tools on simulation-based learning is documented and discussed. Finally, considerations on the future trend of this application field are drawn, highlighting the impact of the most recent pandemic and the current demographic trends

Oramed: optimization of radiation protection of medical staff

Postprint (published version

Editor's Choice – European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) 2023 Clinical Practice Guidelines on Radiation Safety

Funding Information: On behalf of the Public and Community Oversight Group (PCOG) of the Health Protection Research Unit in Chemical and Radiation Threats and Hazards: Ian Wright; John Phipps; Colette Kelly; Robert Goundry; Eve Smyth; Andrew Wood; Paul Dale (also of the Scottish Environment Protection Agency). On behalf of the Society and College of Radiographers Patient Advisory Group: Lynda Johnson; Philip Plant; Michelle Carmichael – Specialist Senior Staff Nurse Guy's and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation trust.Peer reviewe

Editor's Choice – European Society for Vascular Surgery (ESVS) 2023 Clinical Practice Guidelines on Radiation Safety

info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio