Innovation in Healthcare Communications

Summary of work

Virtual Valve is a novel, 360-degree, virtual reality experience developed for Edwards Lifesciences and designed to educate interventional cardiologists (ICs) on the impact of aortic stenosis (AS) and the clinical advantages, including the broad patient-suitability of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) over the existing standard of care - surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). We created an interactive medical education experience that transforms case-based learning into a fully immersive, adaptable AS patient journey. Integrating Oculus Rift and Xbox Kinect technologies, ICs can create entirely customisable cases by modifying symptoms, co-morbidities and disease severity, allowing them to experience both typical and unique patient profiles. Guided through the experience, users are able to observe the impact of AS on anatomy and physiology of the heart in never-before-seen detail, and select the best treatment for each patient. By utilising virtual reality to transform case-based learning, we were able to deliver an advanced medical educational experience that stimulates discussion, raises awareness and encourages behavioural change regarding patient-eligibility for TAVI. In 2015, Virtual Valve was featured at numerous events across Europe, including the two largest cardiology congresses, where it has been experienced by almost 3000 cardiology healthcare professionals.

Judges' comments

This was a great example of virtual reality being used not just as an experience, but as a very effective teaching tool. It had a good strategy and a simple tactical plan and the team understood the audience’s needs and preferences. There was excellent use of the technology and the animation’s quality and detail were fantastic.