Mixed Reality as a Tool for Congenital Heart Disease Case Management Discussions

Understanding congenital heart disease requires a 3D mental framework, yet clinicians typically rely on 2D imaging. Multi-disciplinary case management conference (CMC) discussions often involve review of complex anatomy utilizing cross-sectional imaging. Mixed reality (MR) offers immersive 3D visualization that may enhance these discussions. Our objectives were to demonstrate the feasibility of integrating MR-guided discussions into CMC and assess Heart Center perceptions of its use. This prospective, single-center study was conducted during multi-disciplinary CMCs. Baseline and post-presentation Likert-scale questionnaires were administered. EchoPixel True3D (Santa Clara, CA) was used to present 3D MR models from cardiac CT datasets. Participants used electronic glasses wirelessly linked to a 3D projector to view the MR models in conference, which were manipulated in real-time. On the baseline survey (n = 46), 67% agreed that complex cardiac anatomy is difficult to interpret with 2D imaging. Twelve MR cases were presented. On the post-survey (n = 100), 93% rated the MR model quality as good/excellent, 75% felt that MR improved their understanding of the cardiac anatomy, and 89% supported regular use of MR in CMC. Among surgeons and interventionalists, 82% reported improved procedural planning and 57% altered their procedural approach. Mixed reality imaging can be successfully incorporated into CMC presentations and discussions, with positive participant responses. MR provides a virtual 3D framework that closely replicates patient anatomy and supports pre-procedural planning and execution.