Augmented Reality in Healthcare - Use Cases, Benefits & More

Once upon a time, Augmented reality in healthcare was just a work of fiction. But who would have thought it would become one of the most popular innovations in the tech world, with various leading and practical applications across industries? 

Use Cases of Augmented Reality (AR)

Some of the most notable industries yielding positive results with AR include (and are not limited to) retail, eCommerce, manufacturing, construction, real estate, and healthcare. Speaking of healthcare and medicine, Augmented Reality in the healthcare industry has proven to be one of the budding digital health technologies.

AR technology has been in the works since the 1960s when computer scientist Ivan Sutherland at Harvard created an AR head-mounted display system. The rest has followed ever since. Now the experts state that the revenue for augmented reality will jump to an estimated $340.16 by 2028. 

As AR is immensely growing and becoming more affordable, many healthcare institutions are considering developing applications of AR to communicate, train, and engage healthcare professionals and patients to improve outcomes. 

PokemonGo

Unlike VR, augmented reality puts together virtual world elements on top of the real world. One of the most prominent examples of AR is PokemonGo. The game was launched in 2016 and conquered the world right after stepping into the market. Gamers left their full-time earning jobs to become pokemon hunters.

Snapchat

Another common example is Snapchat/Instagram’s most popular cat and dog filters. All you have to do is aim your camera at yourself to activate the AR experience—a computer-generated version of the cat on top of your selfie.

Apart from gaming and leisure, the same tech has various important use cases in the healthcare industry as well. AR is bringing life-changing practices for both patients and doctors. Healthcare practitioners (HCPs) are using AR, especially for medical training and imaging, dentistry, and nurse training, among other things. 

The wait is over! Explore our extensive guides to the Healthcare Industry.

What Is AR In Healthcare?

Augmented reality (AR) in healthcare is like a magician's wand, transforming the way we perceive and interact with the world. By overlaying digital information in the real world, healthcare augmented reality enhances and augments a person's perception of their environment, making it more interactive and engaging.

In 2018, the global augmented reality in the healthcare market was estimated at $321.1 million and is now expected to reach a total revenue of $1,565.1 (CAGR of 21.9%) by 2026.

If we look at the breakdown, we can see that the North American region will most likely dominate the global augmented reality in medicine during the above-mentioned projected period. It was valued at $ 141.3 in 2018 and is anticipated to increase dramatically to $664.9 million by 2026.

Applications of Augmented Reality in the Medical Field

AR in healthcare is revolutionizing the medical field, offering new and innovative ways to treat and train medical professionals. With its immersive and interactive capabilities, AR is proving to be a game changer in the field of medicine. A powerful example is trauma surgeons benefitting from AR to observe surgical pathways around the body beforehand, in order to safely execute a complex operation later.

AR for Education & Surgeries

Healthcare institutions and workers quickly realized the benefits and usefulness of AR technologies specifically for education. Speaking of, augmented reality in medical field training is one of the most important examples of AR. Sure, there is no surprise that healthcare workers are expected to learn everything they can about patient care. They must know the human body's anatomy and its functions inside and out. 

One example is the training of surgeons. The management can use AR simulations as a rehearsal before performing complex procedures on real patients. It allows surgeons to hone their skills and perfect their technique. So let a director rehearse a play before the curtain rises.

With respect to augmented reality medical applications, visualize and interact with computer-generated simulations of a three-dimensional environment or representations of bodies for surgical procedures. For better accuracy, medical students or surgeons can use AR techniques to visualize the area they want to perform surgery on. 

Platforms like HoloHuman help medical students explore different body functions, systems, and regions via full-size, interactive holograms. 

Hololens' headset is another great example of augmented reality healthcare applications. Surgeons and doctors in London hospitals have already started using Microsoft’s HoloLens AR glasses. They use it for reconstructive surgery of patients with severe injuries.

AR for Vein Visualization

Vein visualization is a delicate task that requires a steady hand and a keen eye. Unfortunately, not all healthcare professionals possess the natural talent for it. Traditional methods of vein visualization rely heavily on the skill of the practitioner.  even then, they cannot guarantee full success. This is where AR in the healthcare industry comes in as a savior, like a shining beacon in the darkness.

AR for vein visualization is a game-changer for healthcare professionals, providing them with a powerful tool to improve accuracy and efficiency. By overlaying digital information onto the patient's skin, AR makes it easier to locate and access difficult-to-find veins. It's like having a magic lantern that illuminates the way, making the task of vein visualization less daunting.

Moreover, augmented reality in the medical field can also assist professionals in achieving greater accuracy and precision when performing procedures such as venipuncture, reducing the risk of complications and increasing patient comfort. It's like having a magic compass that guides them to their target with pinpoint accuracy.

AccuVein is one such example of augmented reality in medical applications. The software makes it easier for doctors or healthcare staff to find the vein first before poking in the needle. Similarly, there are more fascinating applications of AR that are radically changing the healthcare industry and the quality of life.

AR for Virtual Collaboration

If the head surgeon is away, a virtual collaboration application of augmented reality in healthcare can always come in handy. The second in command can follow the procedural instructions through a virtual environment for collaborative surgeries. It’s especially advantageous for surgeons not residing in the same geographical area as the patient undergoing surgery.

Moreover, AR can seamlessly enable patients to access and discuss a further diagnosis with doctors via video-based appointments. Proximie is a platform that uses the applications of both AR and AI to allow surgeons to perform procedures remotely with a live video stream.

You minght be interested in: Video Translation for Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) Experiences

AR for New Mothers

Traditionally, family members help and support young new mothers through the surprisingly challenging breastfeeding process. However, the world has drastically changed and become far more global than ever before.

Back in 2014, Small world – a tech company, developed breastfeeding tutorials, tips, and techniques in collaboration with the Australian Breastfeeding Association through Google’s most advanced wearable tech: Google glass.

It’s a voice- and motion-controlled Android device – just like a pair of eyeglasses that displays information that users can see in real-time in their field of vision. The AR-powered glasses show breastfeeding mothers everything they need to know, such as prompts, directions et al. 

AR for Symptom Identification

Patients struggle to describe their symptoms accurately to doctors more often than not. Most of the time, patients seem to exaggerate the medical situation or, on the contrary, fail to understand the seriousness of it.

Augmented reality apps for healthcare like EyeDecide, a patient education app, visualize a patient’s symptoms and the impact of their conditions through a camera display.

For example, suppose patients think or are suffering from Glaucoma. In that case, the application can help patients understand symptoms and make a precise medical diagnosis. By yielding their full potential, digital applications can leave an unforgettable impact. 

Examples of AR in the Healthcare Industry

AR is like having a secret weapon in its arsenal to fight against diseases and illnesses. From virtual reality-assisted surgeries to interactive patient education, the possibilities of AR in healthcare are endless. Here are a few medical examples of augmented reality:

Virtual Reality-Assisted Surgeries

AR technology allows surgeons to visualize the patient's internal organs in 3D, making surgeries more precise and less invasive. It's like having a roadmap to the patient's insides.

Patient Education

This mind-blowing and medical-friendly technology can create interactive visual aids that help patients understand complex medical procedures and conditions. It's like having a personal tutor to explain medical jargon in layman's terms.

Physical Therapy 

Healthcare professionals can use this astonishing technology to create virtual rehabilitation exercises that help patients recover from injuries and surgeries. It's like having a personal trainer to guide you through your recovery journey.

Remote Consultations

Another augmented reality in healthcare examples is remote consultations. AR technology allows doctors to consult with patients remotely, using live video and visual aids to improve communication. It's like having a doctor in the room with you, even when they're miles away.

Medical Training

You can use AR to create realistic simulations for medical students and professionals to practice procedures before performing them on real patients. It's like having a dress rehearsal before the big show.

Benefits of AR in the Healthcare Industry

Gear up to be dazzled as I list the numerous benefits of Augmented Reality in the healthcare industry.

Improved Patient Care 

The technology allows for the creation of virtual overlays, providing a detailed and nuanced understanding of a patient's internal anatomy. This can be especially beneficial during surgical procedures, where precision is of the essence.

For instance, imagine a patient requiring brain surgery. The surgeon, equipped with an AR headset, is able to view a 3D rendering of the patient's brain, complete with real-time information on blood vessels, nerve pathways, and tumors.

This not only allows the surgeon to have a better understanding of the patient's condition but also enables them to make informed decisions and perform the surgery with greater precision. The result is a reduction in complications, recovery time, and overall improved outcomes for the patient.

Better Patient-Doctor Communication

Imagine having a magic wand that could make doctor-patient communication a breeze! Well, that's exactly what Augmented Reality (AR) is in the healthcare world. 

With AR, doctors can wave their digital wand and make complex medical jargon disappear into thin air, leaving only easy-to-understand illustrations and animations behind. It's like having your own personal translator, who can help you understand your health better and communicate your concerns more clearly. 

Increased Patient Satisfaction

Augmented Reality (AR) is the cherry on top of the sundae when it comes to patient satisfaction. By providing interactive visual aids, AR helps patients understand their medical conditions and procedures in a way that's easy to digest. This can help to alleviate anxiety and confusion and empower patients to take an active role in their own healthcare. 

With AR, patients can also easily communicate their symptoms and concerns, leading to more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. It's a win-win situation where everyone leaves the table satisfied.

The Future of Augmented Reality in Healthcare

It is clear that augmented reality (AR) has a promising future in the healthcare industry. This is due to its unique ability to overlay virtual elements or information onto real-life environments. Gradually, it can greatly enhance or alter the user's experience. 

One area where AR is particularly useful is in helping people understand and interact with the anatomy and physiology of the human body.

According to a press release by business wire, Dr. Frank Phillips, both the Professor and the Director of the Division of Spine Surgery at Rush University Medical Center, successfully completed his first AR-based minimally invasive spine surgery. Thus, it will be accurate to say that healthcare professionals are keen to explore opportunities for implementing AR technology in the industry.

Therefore, if you are in the healthcare industry and aspire to work as a forward-thinking startup founder/ entrepreneur, you need to step up your game in the field of AR because the opportunities are endless.

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Frequently Asked Question 

How is augmented reality used in healthcare?

Augmented Reality (AR) is used in healthcare to improve patient outcomes and experience by providing more precise surgeries and interactive visual aids for patient education, as well as virtual rehabilitation exercises and medical training simulations. 

What are AR applications which are used in medicine?

The following applications of AR are used in medicine: 

• Vein detection 
• Visualizing surgeries 
• Training doctors and other healthcare professionals
• Promoting patient self-care 
• Remote consultation 
• Disease diagnosis 

What is augmented reality technology in telehealth?

Clinicians might use it to help patients and their families comprehend medical treatment before surgery. The incorporation of augmented reality into telemedicine, according to the firm, has the potential to alter the way doctors provide diagnoses and propose therapy.

What are the benefits of augmented reality to patients and health workers?

Augmented reality (AR) can improve patient outcomes, enhance communication, increase patient engagement, improve training and education for health workers, and reduce costs. It can be used in visual aids, interactive medical procedures, training simulations, and less invasive treatments.