Researchers from the University of Sheffield in the U.K. have developed a technique that uses a virtual reality headset to view virtual colonoscopy studies in a 3D virtual environment.
Virtual colonoscopy is a routine procedure for viewing CT scans of the colon on a 2D monitor to search for pathological structures. On average, the process takes experienced radiologists 20 minutes to complete, according to the group.
Wearing the Oculus Rift virtual reality headset while performing virtual colonoscopy allowed the Sheffield clinicians to explore the colon in real 3D. This method can improve the detection of lesions and the overall efficiency of the exam, they said.
The research received support from the Think Ahead Sheffield Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) program, as well as funding from the Bardhan Research and Education Trust of Rotherham and the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council (EPSRC).
