Augmented Reality and its Influence on Life Sciences

Technology has several applications beyond anatomy. If one is trying to explain more intricate portions of organic chemistry to pharmaceutical students, VR permits them to explore complex compounds in ways never imagined.

FREMONT, CA: Augmented Reality (AR) is beginning to play a much larger role in life sciences than one may not be aware of. From increasing children’s experience of science in the schoolroom to employing technology to improve patient outcomes, AR is already performing a significant role in life sciences. Here is a quick summary of some of the areas it is impacting.

Augmented Reality in The Classroom

Whether an institution’s life science classroom focuses on biology, chemistry, or health, Augmented reality (AR) can help bring those topics to life. An extensive range of options assists students to understand scientific principles and current structures better. Three-dimensional models of the human body empower students to explore anatomy without an anatomy lab.

Technology has several applications beyond anatomy. If one is trying to explain more intricate portions of organic chemistry to pharmaceutical students, VR permits them to explore complex compounds in ways never imagined. AR applications allow students to combine compounds with seeing what potential problems may arise. It also facilitates them to observe microbiology interactions on a scale that would otherwise need intricate microscope work.

Training the Next Generation

VR has been used in surgical suites for the past decade. Coupled with video conferencing capabilities, surgeons in remote areas can refer to experts across the state or worldwide. A brain tumor patient in a remote location, for instance, can have it removed close to home. As the operation progresses, specialists are available should any issues arise. MRI markers help regulate the best path and approach to eliminate the tumor.

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With 360-degree video, students and surgeons who want to enlarge their skills can employ AR to observe surgery, learn the process from a patient and skilled surgeon who may be nearby or across the globe. This type of training is also being used to help advance emergency response. A pupil can follow the actions of an emergency room doctor treating a patient.

Improving Patient Outcomes

Many have experienced a blood draw with numerous failed attempts. For patients who are anxious about needles, a new approach merging infrared and AR helps improve success rates. The blood stands out on infrared, which is overlaid with the image of the patient’s skin. This occurrence makes it much easier to hit the vein the first time. AR can also help reduce patient pain and anxiety levels without additional medication.