medspace.CT
COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY ENVIRONMENT
What is medspace.CT?
The medspace.CT module provides users with access to a 3D virtual reality Computed Tomography (CT) unit. The module, complete with adjustable couch, injection stand and control area, utilises high physical and functional fidelity improving transfer of skills to clinical environments. The module features an interactive CT dataset embedded in our patient model that allows users to create their own scan protocols and simulated images. Tutors can upload unlimited CT datasets of their own, building up a library of techniques and incorporating new protocols with ease. Patient images are blended with the patient model providing unlimited access to a range of clinical datasets.
Learners can navigate around the room and change viewpoints as well as interact with the equipment and patient.
Environment
medspace.CT is the world’s first CT-based simulation environment and immerses the user in a computed tomography room complete with adjustable couch, injection stand and control area. Users are able to navigate around the room and change viewpoint as well as interact with the equipment and patient. The high resolution 3D environment provides a sense of presence and realism unparalleled in medical imaging simulation.
Equipment
Users start by selecting a protocol and preparing the room as in clinical practice; for some protocols this may involve loading of contrast for IV injection. Users simply click on the relevant control to “press” buttons as in the real world. Dedicated generic controls have been designed to be intuitive while mirroring clinical control systems sufficiently to allow skill transfer. When the room is ready the patient is invited to adopt an approximate position mimicking clinical practice.
Patient
The medspace.CT patient model is highly realistic with positioning adjustments of the head only. The patient places themselves in an approximate initial position that is subject to a random error. This reflects the variability in real life; it is rare for a patient to place themselves perfectly. Positional adjustments of the head tilt are made by clicking on selective body parts and selecting the appropriate anatomical movement. As in real life lasers are used to position the patient according to anatomical landmarks.
Imaging
Imaging is conducted from behind a screen and users are able to adjust parameters while monitoring the patient. As with all medspace.VR modules, users follow a clinical workflow starting with generation of a scout image. Superior and inferior limits are identified and the relevant patient position and protocol is selected. The scout image is displayed and the user is able to select scan limits, imaging parameters including slice thickness. The resulting CT images are displayed alongside the “standard” image for comparison.
Administration
medspace.VR products are designed with learning in mind, providing a wide range of features to facilitate learning activity design. Tutors can create “standard” setups and images tailored to local practice. Unlimited standard setups can easily be created and saved as a protocol for students.
