The Use of Metaverse in Radiology: A Systematic Review

The integration of the metaverse in radiology represents a transformative advancement in medical imaging, which is pivotal for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. This review examines how the metaverse, characterized by 3D and decentralized virtual reality environments, enhances the interpretation of medical images, including X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, ultrasounds, and mammograms.

This systematic review searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for English-language studies on metaverse applications in radiology published until June 2024. Inclusion criteria encompassed original research articles focusing on metaverse applications in radiology. Data extraction involved three independent reviewers utilizing a structured form to collect information on study characteristics and outcomes.

Of 212 articles found through the initial search, 21 studies were eligible for review inclusion. Most of the studies (52%) were developmental research and China was the country with the most published studies (33%). Reviewing the outcomes of studies revealed significant advancements in medical technology, encompassing the development of novel diagnostic tools, successful integration of imaging technologies, and innovative modeling and simulation approaches. MRI and CT were the most common techniques, reflecting their primary role in diagnostic imaging and the potential of metaverse applications to enhance their effectiveness.

The metaverse enables significant advancements in radiology, including new diagnostic tools, imaging integration, and simulation approaches. Future research should explore practical applications, patient outcomes, and best practices to optimize its integration into clinical workflows and improve patient care.