An innovative Android-based application called AR DMD EYEVUE has been developed to aid in the visualization of human eye anatomy and simulate aqueous humor (AH) flow within the cornea — with a special focus on Descemet Membrane Detachment (DMD), a sight-threatening ophthalmic condition. This project, led by Prof. Madya Dr. Zuhaila binti Ismail from the Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), represents a significant advancement in medical education and clinical practice.
A Digital Tool for Visualizing Complex Corneal Conditions
DMD occurs when the Descemet membrane (DM) separates from the corneal stroma, often as a result of AH intrusion following a tear or rupture. This leads to severe vision impairment and complex management challenges. The AR DMD EYEVUE application enables users to understand these intricate processes through interactive 3D visualization and real-time fluid dynamics simulation.
By illustrating how fluid flow within the cornea influences DM detachment and reattachment, this educational tool assists ophthalmologists, medical trainees, and even patients in grasping the biomechanical processes underlying DMD. The intuitive interface and high-quality graphics make it suitable for both clinical consultation and educational use.
Empowering Education Through AR and Simulation
AR DMD EYEVUE combines anatomical accuracy, interactive learning, and augmented reality integration. It provides:
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Real-time CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulation of fluid flow within the cornea.
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Immersive, anatomy-accurate demonstrations through augmented reality.
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Customizable case scenarios to visualize varying detachment conditions.
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Offline accessibility for clinics and classrooms, ensuring usability even without costly equipment.
The app’s hybrid functionality allows it to act as a training aid, patient communication platform, and decision-support system, enhancing understanding and improving treatment planning in both surgical and non-surgical cases of DMD.
Bridging Medical Training and Clinical Application
Beyond ophthalmologists, students and educators benefit greatly from the app’s design. By integrating AR and dynamic visualization, AR DMD EYEVUE provides a hands-on approach to learning, helping users explore how the biomechanics of the eye influence detachment and healing processes. This interactivity aligns with modern trends in digital health education and AR/VR-based medical training, which are becoming vital tools in healthcare curricula.
Addressing Market Needs and Future Growth
The growing prevalence of corneal diseases and surgical complications has driven demand for enhanced diagnostic, training, and communication tools. In this context, AR DMD EYEVUE arrives at an opportune moment.
Malaysia’s digital health sector is rapidly expanding, with the Asia-Pacific AR/VR healthcare market projected to grow over 20% annually. This presents a strong potential for the app to penetrate ophthalmology clinics, teaching hospitals, and universities. The global ophthalmic device and visualization market, valued at over USD 60 billion, coupled with the USD 20 billion healthcare education technology sector, underscores the vast potential of this innovation.
A Scalable and Impactful Innovation
AR DMD EYEVUE is cost-effective, scalable, and adaptable for broader medical applications beyond ophthalmology. It promotes data-driven decision-making, clinical precision, and patient engagement, aligning perfectly with UTM’s vision of harnessing digital innovation for a smarter and sustainable future.
By merging clinical insight with digital transformation, this invention demonstrates how augmented reality can redefine medical learning and patient care, positioning Malaysia as a regional leader in healthcare innovation.
Researcher:
Prof. Madya Dr. Zuhaila binti Ismail
Faculty of Science, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
📧 zuhaila@utm.my
