Holographic patients are being used to train medical students in Cambridge in a world first.

The new mixed-reality training application HoloScenarios, enables teaching and learning through life-like holographic patient scenarios, accessible from anywhere in the world. The tech is being developed by Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (CUH), in partnership with the University of Cambridge and Los Angeles based tech company GigXR.

The first module focuses on common respiratory conditions and emergencies. Learners in the same room, wearing Microsoft HoloLens mixed reality headsets, are able to see each other in real life, while also interacting with a multi-layered, medically accurate holographic patient.

Through the same type of headset, medical instructors are able to change patient responses, introduce complications and record observations and discussions, whether in person, in a teaching group or remotely to multiple locations worldwide, via the internet.

Learners can also watch, contribute to and assess the holographic patient scenarios from Android, iOS smartphone or tablet. This means true-to-life, safe-to-fail immersive learning can be accessed, delivered and shared across the world, with the technology now available for license to learning institutions everywhere.

Recommended

• Leader Insights | The switch to an EV future with Steve Tigar, loveelectric
• Digital poverty reversal in the UK must happen on a “national scale”
• National Robotarium project aims to help AIs understand people

The first module features a hologram patient with asthma, followed by anaphylaxis, pulmonary embolism and pneumonia. Further modules in cardiology and neurology are in development.

Leading the project in Cambridge is Dr Arun Gupta, consultant anaesthetist at CUH and director of postgraduate education at Cambridge University Health Partnership.

He said: “Mixed reality is increasingly recognised as a useful method of simulator training. As institutions scale procurement, the demand for platforms that offer utility and ease of mixed reality learning management is rapidly expanding

“GigXR has already enabled instructors to better prepare learners with medically accurate simulation for observation and assessment. With HoloScenarios, we’re helping to evolve education from a mentorship-based model to one where students around the world can have equal access to top-flight expertise for mastering invention-based clinical skills.”

Get the latest news from DIGIT direct to your inbox

Our newsletter covers the latest technology and IT news from Scotland and beyond, as well as in-depth features and exclusive interviews with leading figures and rising stars.

To subscribe, click here.