Augmented Reality (AR): The future of “patient information leaflets"

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    Augmented Reality (AR): The future of “patient information leaflets”

  • IRAS ID

    259762

  • Contact name

    Steven Lo

  • Contact email

    steven.lo@ggc.scot.nhs.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    NHS R and D

  • Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier

    N/A, N/A

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    1 years, 3 months, 1 days

  • Research summary

    The treatment of patient diseases such as breast cancer can be overwhelming and confusing to patients. Current patient information leaflets using the 2 dimensional restrictions of paper do not adequately explain 3 dimensional concepts such as resection or reconstructive surgery. We hope to improve the patient experience dramatically using Augmented Reality (AR) in patient information leaflets.

    AR is the use of technology to superimpose information - sounds, images and text - on the world we see. A lay example would be the use of AR in the game “Pokemon Go” and the reproduction of a 3D digital animal that can be seen in a real world environment using a smartphone or tablet device. In this project we propose using AR on an tablet or smartphone application to generate 3 dimensional models that can explain surgery (such as resection and flap reconstruction) to patients.

    A working augmented reality ‘patient leaflet’ has already been produced for sarcoma, with other cancer fields in development. The inclusion of AR content demonstrates sequential thigh tumour resection, a 3D model of the thigh flap, the flap reconstruction itself and a post-op patient gait video. This allows patients to see and understand the entire “process” of sarcoma surgery and possible patient outcomes after surgery eg “I’m having the same surgery, I now know how it’s done, and I can see a patient walking after this type of surgery”. We are currently developing augmented reality leaflets for sarcoma, breast cancer, cleft lip and other fields.

    The study itself involves the assessment of this new patient leaflet by patients and clinical staff, for user friendliness, information, comprehensibility and recall, using a questionnaire based outcome assessment. This will be randomised and compared to a control group (standard patient information leaflet).

  • REC name

    London - Camden & Kings Cross Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    19/LO/1693

  • Date of REC Opinion

    23 Oct 2019

  • REC opinion

    Further Information Favourable Opinion