On the heels of last month's update, we'd like to showcase another feature in our VR modules - the multiplayer function.
Multiplayer function
Seen below is an overview of the multi-player module: Two of our surgeons, each equipped with separate headsets and controllers, are interacting with each other as well as a virtual liver, as seen in the middle screen projection.
Multiplayer function with our VR modules
The goal of our VR modules is not only to simulate a patient-specific surgery for medical trainees, but to allow a staff surgeon act as a mentor to be present in the same virtual space, and guide them through the surgery step-by-step.
The surgeons are able to speak and hear each other, thanks to the microphone and headphones embedded within each head set. Moreover, they're able to interact with the same virtual objects within the space - in other words, when one surgeon picks up and rotates the liver, the other surgeon can see exactly how the liver is rotated, in real time.
With this function, surgeons would be able to discuss in detail the patient's anatomy in virtual reality by manipulating a 3D model. Seen below is Dr. Robin Visser, one of our 2nd year surgical fellows, and Dr. Paul Greig, our (now retired) staff surgeon at the Toronto General Hospital, taking note of the patient's bile duct anatomy.
Dr. Visser discussing bile duct anatomy with Dr. Greig in VR
An added benefit is that surgeons could now 'practice' the entire procedure before going into the physical OR. Seen below is Dr. Trevor Reichmann, current director of the HPB and MOT fellowships, and Dr. Paul Greig, going through a virtual living donor left hepatectomy.
Dr. Reichman completing a VR left hepatectomy with Dr. Greig
While the module was tested in the same physical space, we've designed it so that anyone, anywhere would be able to participate in the virtual surgery, provided they have the VR headset.
Going in this direction, we aim to foster and build up international communication opportunities between surgeons and trainees around the world, where patient cases can be discussed, and surgical cases simulated before going in the OR, all occurring within a shared virtual reality space.
As always, stay tuned for more updates on our experimental endeavors in developing surgical education tools.
- The TVASurg Team