Enhancing Bronchoscopy Training Through VR Experiences.
BronchoXR transforms CT-derived airway models into a navigable virtual environment. The project investigates how extended reality and AI-driven feedback can support bronchoscopy training and pre-procedural planning, particularly for complex airways.
Project Overview
From static CT slices to interactive, navigable airways.Bronchoscopy is a technically demanding procedure that requires navigating a flexible scope through complex, patient-specific airway anatomy. Traditional tools, including manikins and desktop simulators, provide valuable practice but can be limited in representing individual patient anatomy or supporting rehearsal of rare cases.
BronchoXR examines how virtual reality (VR), extended reality (XR), and artificial intelligence can:
- Transform CT scans into interactive 3D airway models that can be explored in VR;
- Provide immersive scenarios for novice and early-career clinicians;
- Support planning and rehearsal for complex or paediatric bronchoscopy procedures;
- Offer structured feedback on navigation, coverage, and decision-making.
BronchoXR Simulator
A virtual environment for exploring the bronchial tree.Core capabilities
- CT-derived 3D airway anatomy for realistic tracheobronchial structures.
- Immersive VR navigation using a bronchoscope-style controller.
- Scenario-based training for both routine and complex cases.
- Planned AI support for automatic airway labelling and navigation suggestions.
- Designed to complement, rather than replace, existing simulators and manikin training.
Research Team
Combining expertise in HCI, XR, and medical imaging.Saad Khan
Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand
Craig Anslow
Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand
Brian Robinson
Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand
Stuart Marshall
Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand
Collaborators
Clinical and research partners engaged in BronchoXR.BronchoXR is developed in close collaboration with clinicians, researchers, and interdisciplinary experts to ensure the system reflects real clinical needs and training practices. These collaborations help guide scenario design, validate technical accuracy, and align the simulator with current bronchoscopy workflows.
Study & Methods
Understanding practice to inform design.Participants
- Bronchoscopists, respiratory physicians, and anaesthetists.
- Radiologists involved in airway imaging and planning.
- Medical students and junior doctors learning bronchoscopy.
Aims
- Characterise current training and planning workflows for bronchoscopy.
- Investigate how CT imaging and existing simulators are used in practice.
- Identify requirements for an XR-based virtual bronchoscopy system.
- Co-design scenarios, metrics, and feedback mechanisms for BronchoXR.
Data collection and analysis
- Semi-structured interviews with clinicians and trainees.
- Observations of bronchoscopy procedures and debrief sessions.
- Surveys on training needs, usability, and perceived usefulness of VR tools.
- Iterative usability testing with BronchoXR prototypes.
Publications
Research outputs from 2024–2025.2025
Awards & Recognition
Highlights of academic, research, and community achievements.2025
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People’s Choice Poster Award – HealthTech Week NZ
Enhancing Bronchoscopy Training through VR Experiences
2024
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People’s Choice Poster Award – HealthTech Week NZ
Improving Radiology Diagnostics and Training with XR
Engagement & Public Visibility
Media features, leadership roles, and community contributions.Leadership & Community Roles
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President — Victoria Pakistan Students Association (VPSA) (2025)
Leading cultural, academic, and social initiatives for the Pakistani student community at Victoria University of Wellington. - Organised community events, cultural celebrations, and student engagement activities that strengthened cross-cultural connection and support at VUW.
- VUW Engineering News: “PhD student wins big at HealthTech Week 2024”
- LinkedIn Highlight: Update featuring my engagement and activities in XR research and community leadership