In Koforidua, Ghana, Charles Owusu Aseku has relentlessly sought medical attention since 2002 for a sizable keloid on his neck, experiencing mounting disappointment with each unsuccessful surgery, including a futile trip to South Africa that resulted solely in a consultation.
Determined to seek further medical assistance, Aseku was preparing for another trip until February when he became part of a landmark trial of 3D telemedicine technology in Ghana, conducted via computer screens within a specially equipped van.
The groundbreaking initiative, created by Microsoft’s research team in collaboration with local medical professionals and scientists, is aimed at facilitating medical consultations for patients awaiting or recovering from surgery in a region with one of the lowest doctor-to-patient ratios globally.
Built upon earlier groundwork in Scotland, the project now operates as a portable system, featuring advanced lighting and camera enhancements. Inside the van, cameras capture a 3D model of each patient, projecting this model onto a large screen where multiple doctors can remotely join the consultation to examine the case.
“The concept of the van is to reach the remote villages lacking specialized medical care, allowing for pre or post-surgery consultations,” said Spencer Fowers, lead software developer on the 3D telemedicine project at Microsoft Research.
This initiative also empowers patients with access to diverse medical opinions. During Aseku’s session, doctors from Rwanda, Scotland, and Brazil participated, providing a boost to his optimism.
“I see many doctors here, and I am very happy because each one brings different experience and insight, which might lead to a solution for my condition,” the 46-year-old remarked.
Researchers at the Koforidua Regional Hospital hope that this trial marks the beginning of a broader initiative that will expand the service and explore further applications. With the surge in telemedicine, particularly post-COVID-19, there is significant potential for such digital health tools to benefit African patients, given the scarcity of specialist doctors across the continent.
George Opoku, 68, was initially referred to the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital situated nearly 100 kilometers from the Koforidua hospital—closer to his home—where he first sought treatment for sarcoma, a rare cancer affecting the bones and soft tissues. When informed about the 3D telemedicine trial, his doctor took the opportunity to enroll him, conserving both time and the stress associated with long trips.
“I had to sit in a van and present myself and my condition not to just one but several doctors. I answered all their queries and am hopeful they will discuss and resolve my issue,” Opoku shared. “I already feel better and optimistic.”
However, the project faces significant hurdles, chiefly the inconsistent internet access that plagues large parts of rural Africa.
At Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, this technology is aiding patients who require plastic surgery. The limited number of plastic surgeons means patients often see different doctors during follow-ups.
Dr. Kwame Darko, consultant plastic surgeon and one of the leading researchers on the project, emphasized that 3D telemedicine could allow patients to consult with multiple doctors in a single session.
The potential of this 3D technology, if rolled out across Ghana and other locales, could be transformative, suggested Dr. Ahensan Dasebre, chief resident doctor at the National Reconstructive Plastic Surgery and Burns Centre at Korle-Bu, though not directly involved with the project.
“We already have a deficit when it comes to the number of doctors available for our burgeoning population,” he explained.
“For someone residing in a remote area devoid of specialized medical services but in urgent need, the referring doctor could effectively employ this telemedicine project to facilitate top-tier care access.”