CASE STUDY: MEDICAL SIMULATION
VR Surgical Training Simulation
Creating an interactive virtual reality prototype for learning the ALIF spinal surgery procedure.
The Challenge: Bringing Complex Surgery to VR Training
A biomedicine student needed a functional VR prototype simulating an Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF) spinal surgery for an academic deadline. The core challenge was translating this intricate, multi-step procedure into an interactive VR experience on a tight timeline and limited student budget. The project required utilizing an existing operating room environment and some pre-made models, but also involved significant work in adapting and creating new 3D assets and implementing realistic surgical mechanics and step-by-step guidance within the VR environment.
Our Solution: An Iterative VR Simulation Prototype
TopCode approached this project with an iterative development strategy, prioritizing the implementation of core surgical steps and interactive elements essential for the ALIF procedure. Working closely with the client's video references and provided assets, development in Unity focused on building key interactions like tissue dissection, instrument usage, and the critical implant placement step. We integrated custom 3D modeling where necessary to fill gaps and ensure anatomical accuracy for the simulation's focus areas. A floating UI text box was added to provide real-time, step-by-step instructions, guiding the user through the procedure and enhancing the educational value of the prototype.
Simulating the initial incision.
Placement of the ALIF implant.
Core Interactive Mechanics:
- Precise cutting and manipulation of virtual anatomy.
- Selection and use of specific surgical instruments.
- Correct placement and alignment of the ALIF implant.
- Guidance system indicating the next required action.
- Functionality to reset and restart the simulation.
The Outcome: A Functional Educational Prototype
Despite the inherent complexities of simulating surgery and the project constraints, TopCode successfully delivered a functional and interactive VR prototype simulating the core steps of the ALIF procedure. The prototype met the client's academic requirements, providing a valuable hands-on learning tool in a safe, virtual environment. The project demonstrated effective scope management and agile development under pressure, resulting in a usable simulation that allowed the student to complete their project successfully. The iterative feedback process, although challenging at times due to external factors, ensured the final prototype accurately reflected the essential surgical steps required by the client.
"I'm genuinely pleased with the outcome. While simulating surgery is complex, Riad and the team delivered a functional prototype covering the crucial steps for my project. Their dedication, especially in overcoming challenges, was invaluable. It's been a pleasure working with them, and I'm truly grateful for their support for a student project like mine."
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