Researchers generate 3D virtual reality models of unborn babies

Parents may soon be able to watch their unborn babies grow in realistic 3D immersive visualisations, with new technology that transforms MRI and ultrasound data into a 3D virtual reality model of a fetus, according to research presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America in Chicago at the end of last year.

The virtual reality fetal 3D models are remarkably similar to the postnatal appearance of the newborn baby. They recreate the entire internal structure of the fetus, including a detailed view of the respiratory tract, which can aid doctors in assessing abnormalities.

Researchers believe the technology has numerous potential applications, including assessment of fetal airway patency. For example, if ultrasound showed an abnormal mass near the fetal airway, clinicians could use the 3D images and headset to assess the entire length of the airway and make better-informed decisions about delivery.

The technique has been used on patients at a clinic in Rio de Janeiro, including cases where the fetus had evidence of an abnormality that required postnatal surgery. The researchers hope to use the technology more broadly over the next year.