Mixed reality-based technology to visualize and facilitate treatment planning of impacted teeth: Proof of concept.

OBJECTIVE: We propose a method utilizing mixed reality (MR) goggles (HoloLens 2, Microsoft) to facilitate impacted canine alignment, as planning the traction direction and force delivery could benefit from 3D data visualization using mixed reality (MR). METHODS: Cone-beam CT scans featuring isometric resolution and low noise-to-signal ratio were semi-automatically segmented in Inobitec software. The exported 3D mesh (OBJ file) was then optimized for the HoloLens 2. Using the Unreal Engine environment, we developed an application for the HoloLens 2, implementing HoloLens SDK and UX Tools. Adjustable pointers were added for planning attachment placement, traction direction, and point of force application. The visualization was presented to participants of a course on impacted teeth treatment, followed by a 10-question survey addressing potential advantages (5-point scale: 1 = totally agree, 5 = totally disagree). RESULTS: Out of 38 respondents, 44.7% were orthodontists, 34.2% dentists, 15.8% dental students, and 5.3% dental technicians. Most respondents (44.7%) were between 35 and 44 years old, and only 1 (2.6%) respondent was 55-64 years old. Median answers for six questions were 'totally agree' (25th percentile 1, 75th percentile 2) and for four questions 'agree' (25th percentile 1, 75th percentile 2). No correlation was found between age, profession, and responses. CONCLUSION: Our method generated substantial interest among clinicians. The initial responses affirm the potential benefits, supporting the continued exploration of MR-based techniques for the treatment of impacted teeth. However, the recommendation for widespread use awaits validation through clinical trials.

Interactive teaching of medical 3D cardiac anatomy: atrial anatomy enhanced by ECG and 3D visualization.

The most commonly applied way of teaching students to convey the foundations of human anatomy and physiology involves textbooks and lectures. This way of transmitting knowledge causes difficulties for students, especially in the context of three-dimensional imaging of organ structures, and as a consequence translates into difficulties with imagining them. Even despite the rapid uptake of knowledge dissemination provided by online materials, including courses and webinars, there is a clear need for learning programs featuring first-hand immersive experiences tailored to suit individual study paces. In this paper, we present an approach to enhance a classical study program by combining multi-modality data and representing them in a Mixed Reality (MR)-based environment. The advantages of the proposed approach have been proven by the conducted investigation of the relationship between atrial anatomy, its electrophysiological characteristics, and resulting P wave morphology on the electrocardiogram (ECG). Another part of the paper focuses on the role of the sinoatrial node in ECG formation, while the MR-based visualization of combined micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) data with non-invasive CineECG imaging demonstrates the educational application of these advanced technologies for teaching cardiac anatomy and ECG correlations.

Application of holography and augmented reality based technology to visualize the internal structure of the dental root - a proof of concept.

BACKGROUND: The Augmented Reality (AR) blends digital information with the real world. Thanks to cameras, sensors, and displays it can supplement the physical world with holographic images. Nowadays, the applications of AR range from navigated surgery to vehicle navigation. DEVELOPMENT: The purpose of this feasibility study was to develop an AR holographic system implementing Vertucci's classification of dental root morphology to facilitate the study of tooth anatomy. It was tailored to run on the AR HoloLens 2 (Microsoft) glasses. The 3D tooth models were created in Autodesk Maya and exported to Unity software. The holograms of dental roots can be projected in a natural setting of the dental office. The application allowed to display 3D objects in such a way that they could be rotated, zoomed in/out, and penetrated. The advantage of the proposed approach was that students could learn a 3D internal anatomy of the teeth without environmental visual restrictions. CONCLUSIONS: It is feasible to visualize internal dental root anatomy with AR holographic system. AR holograms seem to be attractive adjunct for learning of root anatomy.

Immersive technologies as a solution for general data protection regulation in Europe and impact on the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND: General data protection regulation (GDPR) provides rules according to which data should be managed and processed in a secure and appropriate way for patient requirements and security. Currently, everyone in Europe is covered by GDPR. Thus, the medical practice also requires access to patient data in a safe and secure way. METHODS: Holographic technology allows users to see everything visible on a computer screen in a new and less restricted way, i.e. without the limitations of traditional computers and screens. RESULTS: In this study, a three-dimensional holographic doctors' assistant is designed and implemented in a way that meets the GDPR requirements. The HoloView application, which is tailored to run on Microsoft HoloLens, is proposed toallow display and access to personal data and so-called sensitive information of all individual patients without the risk that it will be presented to unauthorized persons. CONCLUSIONS: To enhance the user experience and remain consistent with GSPR, a holographic desk is proposed that allows displaying patient data and sensitive information only in front of the doctor's eyes using mixed reality glasses. Last but not least, it boasts of a reduction in infection risk for the staff during the COVID-19 pandemic, affording medical care to be carried out by as few doctors as possible.