Chapter e21 - Computer-Assisted Medical Education

Abstract

This chapter is dedicated to educational applications of medical visualization techniques. Interactive 3D visualizations have great potential for anatomy education, as well as for surgery education, with potential users ranging from high school students and physiotherapists to medical doctors who want to rehearse therapeutical interventions. Labeling, virtual resection, and interaction techniques, such as selection and 3D rotation, are essential in these systems. Computer-assisted training systems enhance surgical manuals, surgical courses and cadaver studies by providing up-to-date multimedia content. This content is structured according to specific learning objectives and may provide tasks, such as puzzles and quizzes to challenge learners. Recent advances include web-based systems, that enable personalized access with an individual profile and possibilities to upload content and discuss with colleagues. While advanced visualization techniques currently play a minor role only, they have potential to enhance the display of complex interventions. The most complex systems aiming at medical education are surgical simulators that integrate haptic feedback, collision detection, soft-tissue deformation as well as the simulation of various complications. We discuss these different classes of medical education systems and focus on the interactive visualization techniques used in these settings. Despite their great potential, computer-assisted training systems are still not widespread. Thus, we discuss future work, e.g., improved curricular integration.