Google Cardboard managed to make virtual reality affordable for the masses. Instead of requiring a dedicated device to fully immerse users in 3D content, the search giant came-up with a simple concept — basically a dumb box with lenses — that allows the usage of the existing (Android) smartphone that serves as a screen for said 3D content. From there, the left and right eye are presented with different images, while the lenses project the visualization toward each eye. The brain combines the two images and creates what looks like real 3D virtual reality.

This story involved using Google Cardboard in clinical setting at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital in Miami, Florida where surgeons were faced with a baby recently born with only one lung and a poorly formed heart. Brave surgeons opted for corrective surgery which required delicate planning.

So they used software to convert CT scan data into a 3D representation that could be viewed using a Google Cardboard viewer coupled with a standard smartphone. The surgeons studied the patient’s unique anatomy in virtual reality to get ready for the procedure once the scalpels were on the table. And we are glad to know that the operation went well and the baby is recovering. 🙂

Here’s video from the Miami Herald with clinicians who worked toward the successful surgery:

[Via: medgadget]