High definition 3D telemedicine: the next frontier?

Abstract

Evidence from the literature indicates that the degree of immersion often referred to as the "sense of being there" experienced by clinicians and patients is a factor in the success of tele-health installations. High definition and 3D telemedicine offers a compelling mechanism to achieve a sense of immersion and contribute to an enhanced quality of use. This article surveys HD3D trials in tele-health and concludes that the way HD3D is integrated into telemedicine depends on the clinical, organisational and technological context. In some settings real time HD3D is not so desirable whereas asynchronous transmission of HD3D images and videos is highly desirable.