Biomedical Interactive Technology Center
Virtual Reality in Medicine and Surgical Simulation
Historically, physicians learn new surgical procedures through observation, practicing on animals and cadavers, and then performing the procedure on patients under the supervision of an experienced surgeon. With computer simulation, physicians can train in a virtual environment in which there is no risk to patients and the procedure can be reviewed from new insightful perspectives that are difficult if not impossible in the real world. Furthermore, the operating station that provides a realistic virtual environment for simulation will also provide an interface for physicians in one location to assist in procedures at a remote location. Advanced telemedicine networks and telerobotic instruments will allow medical expertise to be distributed electronically. Several research efforts in this area are described below:
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio-Pancreatography
Simulation
Simulated Cardiac Catheterization
US
Patent US5766016: "Surgical simulator and method for simulating surgical
procedure." Awarded June 16,
1998
Eye Surgery Simulation
Neuroendoscopic Simulation
Dental Endodontic Simulation