DID YOU KNOW… AR training is the next new thing?

Augmented reality applied to new ultrasound training 

Ultrasound is an essential skill in first-opinion companion animal practice and is the preferred modality for diagnosing a range of common conditions. It is a manual skill that takes hours of practice to perfect. However, it is hard to achieve if you aren't confident to approach a basic scan. 

Traditionally, ultrasound training required the use of volunteer dogs for vets to practice on. This has disadvantages, in that training can only be carried out if suitable dogs are available, scanning practice can only go on for as long as the dogs tolerate, and training is performed by examining normal, healthy organs. Students have also needed to depend upon tutors to guide their probe positioning on live animals, rather than relying on trial and error to locate and review internal organs themselves.

CVS has revolutionised this by introducing new augmented reality (AR) headsets for canine abdominal and echocardiography ultrasound scanning training with its vets and nurses. 

The new Veterinary Ultrasound Simulator headsets will enable colleagues to experience a mixed reality ultrasound simulation. They will do this by turning a normal veterinary mannequin into a high-fidelity educational ultrasound simulator when sliding a probe over the body’s surface. Whilst scanning the mannequin with a hand-held probe linked to the headset, images can also be streamed to an augmented reality ‘live’ screen in front of the student.

The new augmented reality ultrasound simulation will enable multiple students to practice on mannequins concurrently, before scanning on live animals. This will allow them the time required to learn probe manipulation skills and reduce the reliance on live models required to teach ultrasound.  

The AR programme features a 3D anatomically correct model – showing the heart and internal organs in detail. CVS’ training programmes will include both a normal pathology model of a dog, along with a mitral valve disease model – one of the most common degenerative heart diseases in dogs. The programme will comprise a wide range of canine pathologies, along with the ability to take measurements (e.g. enlarged LA:Ao ratio).  

Mark Moreton, Learning, Education and Development Director at CVS said: “We believe that we’re one of the first veterinary companies to employ this new advanced technology teaching tool in the UK. And we’ll now be using it alongside live dogs in all of our ultrasound scanning courses. 

“We think this augmented reality teaching tool will provide a better learning experience for our colleagues. It will empower our students and give them an opportunity to ‘drive’ their own training and practice solo. We hope that this technology enables our vets, nurses and new graduates to build their confidence – and to pick up the probe when they return to practice to keep on growing their skills.”

The Augmented Reality Headset models have been designed and supplied by Deepscope. Created in collaboration with Cornell University in the USA, the Deepscope Veterinary Ultrasound Simulator has taken several years to develop. Currently featuring canine anatomy and some cardiac pathologies, the technology is being continuously developed to offer further improvements to veterinary ultrasound training.

IMAGE: The AI tool will give students the time required to learn probe manipulation skills and reduce the reliance on live models