Virtual Reality

 

·       Virtual reality (VR) refers to a computer-generated simulation in which a person can interact within an artificial three-dimensional environment using electronic devices, such as special googles with screen or gloves fitted with sensors. In this simulated artificial environment, the user is able to have a realistic-feeling experience.

·       Understanding VR

-Natural combination of two words: the virtual and the real.

-The principle is to create a relationship between the user and a virtual environment.

• Virtual reality attempts to create an illusory environment that can be presented to our senses with artificial information, making our minds believe it is (almost) a reality.

·       The use of the term “virtual reality,” was first used in the mid-1980s when Jaron Lanier, began to develop the gear, including goggles and gloves, needed to experience what he called “virtual reality

·       Virtual reality could elevate the teaching and learning experience in medicine to a whole new level. Today, only a few students can peek over the shoulder of the surgeon during an operation to learn the tricks of the trade.

 

Virtual reality has been implicated in a broad range of uses and applications.

Patience education

•        Show patients their own surgical plan

•        Patients can easily understand their medical condition

•        Patient satisfaction

 

Mental Health and psychological therapy:

•        Exposure therapy

•        Help patients face their fears and overcome them

 

Surgery

•        Access & view areas that otherwise would be impossible to reach

•        Guiding surgeons in a three-dimensional space

•        Allow visualize arteries, veins lymphatic vessels and neurons

•        ‘A window into the brain’

 

As with most technological advances, the intended implementations of virtual reality devices in healthcare may have both advantages and drawbacks depending on various factors.

● Addiction

The possibility of VR addiction raises the concern of doctors. The risk is especially high for patients with dementia who have difficulties in recognizing the real world.

●      May disorient users

VR has the tendency to cause nausea, vertigo, disorientation, or other similar symptoms in some patients due to their health conditions.

●      Lack of extensive trials and use history

Technologies related to virtual reality are still under extensive development, and their use is considered experimental.

●      Does not provide sufficient training

VR use for skill training cannot compete with real-life practice, it cannot provide completely realistic feedback, especially in terms of tactile response.