Comparison of Algorithms for Haptic Interaction With Isosurfaces Extracted From Volumetric Datasets.

Combinations of graphics and haptics libraries are used in medical simulations for simultaneous visualization and tactile interaction with complex 3D anatomy models. The minimum frame rate of 1 kHz for haptics rendering makes it a nontrivial problem when dealing with complex and highly detailed polygonal models. Multiple haptics algorithms based on polygonal mesh rendering, volume haptics, and intermediate representation are evaluated in terms of their servoloop rendering time, client thread rendering time, and quality of force feedback.

Virtual reality training in neurosurgery: Review of current status and future applications.

Background: Over years, surgical training is changing and years of tradition are being challenged by legal and ethical concerns for patient safety, work hour restrictions, and the cost of operating room time. Surgical simulation and skill training offer an opportunity to teach and practice advanced techniques before attempting them on patients. Simulation training can be as straightforward as using real instruments and video equipment to manipulate simulated "tissue" in a box trainer.