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How Surgassists Works

Surgassists provides a 3–4 minute immersive animation of a patient’s surgery, using life-size anatomical structures and simplified visuals to explain the procedure, risks, and complications aiding informed decision-making

Why Virtual Reality Is The Future Of Informed Consent Over Traditional Methods

Research has shown that traditional patient information materials, such as leaflets, often require a relatively high level of literacy, limiting accessibility for many individuals. While electronic consent forms are increasingly being used, they still do not ensure universal accessibility. Three-dimensional (3D) models offer a more intuitive way to communicate medical information by translating complex concepts into a visual language that is easier to understand. However, the high costs associated with this technology present a significant barrier to widespread implementation.

A woman wearing a VR headset, fully immersed in a virtual experience

Two-dimensional (2D) videos have been explored as an alternative, but research indicates that their effectiveness in improving patient comprehension is inconsistent. Studies have also highlighted concerns about the accuracy of medical information in social media videos, further limiting their reliability for informed consent. In contrast, virtual reality (VR) provides an immersive and interactive experience that enhances patient understanding by simulating real-world scenarios. This makes VR a more effective tool for ensuring truly informed consent compared to traditional 2D videos.

a laptop showing the subscription page for surgassists

Step 1: Get Started

Begin by signing up through the "Get Involved" button at the top of the page. Once registered, download the app onto your headset and start using it right away.

a man wearing a virtual reality headset whilst talking to a female surgeon

Step 2: Launch The Animation

Select your preferred language, then choose the relevant procedure from the menu. This will open the virtual room, where the patient can press "Start" to begin watching the animation.

a doctor sat on a chair explaining the consent process

Step 3: Proceed With Consultation

After the animation, continue with the consultation process as you normally would

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