Mobile cloud computing for medical applications

Abstract

Mobile Devices like Smartphones and Tablets are getting ever increasing processing power. This makes them powerful enough to do heavy duty realtime 3D video processing. Tablets capable of recording 3D video using stereo camera can have applications in various fields. In the medical field these tablets can be used for micromanipulations such as microsurgery. We describe the design of a tablet capable of 3D vision and a glasses free stereoscopic display, which can be used to enhance the working of the technicians performing micromanipulations. We also illustrate how by providing a deep integration with the cloud, we can reduce the processing overheads and enable valuable new services. For example, in case of microsurgeries, the process is very specialized and is done in a few specialized medical centers only. When these powerful mobile devices are coupled with the cloud, it adds whole new dimension in the services which can be offered. With our deep cloud integration, the surgery being performed can be streamed in realtime from the Tablet itself. This live feed can be viewed by a remote expert to provide guidance to the surgeon. The students at remote locations can also view this live feed. This would provide them a unique learning opportunity. Moreover, the recordings of these surgeries can be backed up on cloud and provided for on demand viewing for learning purposes.