Philip's Advanced VR Training for Precision Medical Procedures

In atherosclerosis, fatty deposits accumulate on arterial walls, forming plaque, which narrows vessels and restricts blood flow. Philips, a leader in health technology, introduced the Stellarex 035 drug-coated angioplasty balloon to alleviate these complications by effectively cleaning the vessel walls and restoring blood flow.

When treating arterial blockages, a drug-coated balloon is inserted and inflated at the target area, exerting pressure against the artery walls. This allows the drug coating to adhere to the arterial walls and plaque, effectively delivering the therapeutic drug to treat the blockage and improve vessel function.

Global Cardiovascular Disease Challenge

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of death globally, claiming approximately 17.9 million lives annually. The majority of CVD deaths are due to heart attacks and strokes, with a significant proportion affecting individuals under 70 years old, according to the World Health Organization. Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory condition of the arteries, underlies numerous cardiovascular issues such as Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) and contributes to a substantial portion of deaths in Western societies.

Ensuring Procedure Excellence Through VR

Philips faced the challenge of ensuring rigorous quality control in the deployment of drug-coated balloons, crucial for the success of medical procedures and patient outcomes. Educating personnel on these intricate procedures involves meticulous attention to detail, as errors can have life-threatening consequences.

Lucid Reality Labs developed a VR training solution specifically tailored for Philips to simulate the complex environment of quality control labs. The simulation authentically replicates laboratory settings, including equipment, tools, and procedural workflows, using high-fidelity 3D graphics and digital twin technology. Real-life images and videos from Philips' laboratories were utilized to ensure accuracy, while manufacturing data enhanced the realism of the virtual environment.

The training module encompasses various scenarios to prepare specialists for real-world challenges, including handling catheters, assessing device functionality, and troubleshooting procedural errors. This comprehensive approach includes tutorial and examination modes, allowing trainees to practice decision-making and interactions critical for effective quality control.

Lucid Reality Labs designed a sophisticated scenario testing system from the ground up, incorporating diverse parameters and performance indicators. The solution ensures proficiency in executing quality control procedures across different platforms, including desktop and mobile versions, maintaining accuracy in virtual interactions that translate directly to real-world applications.

The VR simulation accurately reflects the physical properties of materials used in medical devices, enhancing realism and ensuring that trainees develop practical skills applicable in clinical settings. Collaboration with Philips experts ensured that the solution met stringent technical requirements and delivered a high-quality training experience across multiple platforms.