Applications developed with the Virtual Human database's realistic 3-D models are based on medical image data such as the Visible Human data set from the National Library of Medicine. In fact, that library has awarded EAI with a Phase Two grant to continue work on the Visible Human Project.
To create Virtual Human, EAI's team of biomedical engineers, anatomists and physicians first built the 3-D surface models from the Visible Human data. After that, medical illustrators painted texture maps to "wrap" around the models for a realistic appearance. Because the Visible Human project data currently includes only data on male anatomy, EAI has separately obtained female computer tomagraphy data to develop the female skeletal structures of the Virtual Human database. Omnia Inc. (Blue Bell, Pa.), a network of physicians providing women's health-care, is using the data for continuing education classes for obstetricians and gynecologists.
The Virtual Human database is expected to have applications at all levels of education, from grade school through advanced medical training. Virtual Human applications might eventually replace static drawings, plastic models, small photographs, animals and human cadavers in the classroom. Students will not only learn about movement, function and disease processes, but also take virtual reality trips through the circulatory, respiratory and other body systems.
EAI is currently working on several CD-ROM multimedia projects ranging from an anatomy and physiology textbook companion CD-ROM to a full anatomical atlas both in print and in electronic versions for several publishers.
Surgeons and medical students can use VR applications based on the Virtual Human database to practice techniques in a life-like environment that responds realistically and in real time. Surgeons can explain surgical techniques and even show procedures to patients who may be anxious about an operation. Biomedical engineers can utilize Virtual Human models as a reference when designing and testing medical devices, including orthopedic implants, pacemakers and insulin pumps.
EAI has already used the Virtual Human database to create a virtual brochoscopy application, which was demonstrated to the American Board of Internal Medicine as an example of how to use VR technology for board certification exams. Engineering Animation is currently working on a virtual hysteroscopy with Dr. Jeff Levy of Omnia to teach obstetricians minimally invasive procedures to treat conditions of the uterus.