Virtual Reality Helped Save Her Life2020-07-28T15:44:25+00:00
Danielle Collins

“Virtual reality helped save my life”

— Danielle Collins

Get Advanced Care at GW Hospital

  • Get Advanced Care at GW Hospital

    In addition to in-person visits, quality care is also offered through virtual health services. Use your phone, laptop or other device to access virtual care wherever you are.

     

    Advanced neurological care at GW Hospital helped save Danielle's life. To learn how we can help you, fill out the form below or call 888-4GW-DOCS Monday – Friday, 8 am – 4 pm to schedule an in-person or virtual appointment.

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Keeping You Safe

At GW Hospital, your safety and health are our top priority. That’s why we put safety protocols in place for in-office visits, including enhanced disinfection of high-traffic areas, physical distancing in the lobby and waiting areas, and required masking of all patients, visitors and staff at all times. The hospital regularly cares for patients with highly infectious disease and we continue to follow best practice guidelines to identify, isolate and care for COVID-19 patients, as well as other patients with potentially infectious disease.

Offering Virtual Reality Technology

Danielle Collins was admitted to GW Hospital after being diagnosed with a rare brain condition – a brain bleed caused by an abnormal tangle of blood vessels. Neurosurgeons at GW Hospital used advanced virtual reality technology to help save her life.

The team used VR to help plan the surgery and give Danielle a 360-degree view into her own anatomy. After the surgery, Danielle used VR again – this time to see that the procedure was a success. She’s fully recovered now and back to her active lifestyle. “The level of care I felt was unparalleled to any I’ve ever felt in my life,” she says.

Don’t Ignore the Signs

Danielle experienced the worst headache of her life. Other signs of a neurological issue may include:

  • Muscle weakness, seizures, trembling
  • Dizziness, nausea
  • Problems with memory and learning
  • Poor balance or coordination

An Innovative Surgical Tool

The VR technology at GW Hospital enables surgeons to virtually explore a patient’s brain prior to performing a procedure, much like a pilot uses a flight simulator. It can be used to help treat many neurological issues, such as aneurysms, brain tumors and vascular conditions, like Danielle’s. The technology can also be used as a teaching tool for medical students and residents.

An Advanced Surgical Tool

Walk-in Clinic

A walk-in clinic is now open to provide same-day access to neurosurgical care. No prior imaging is needed, and most insurances are accepted. The clinic is located at 2150 Pennsylvania Ave., 7th floor. Patients may call ahead to schedule at 888-4GW-DOCS or walk in anytime between 8 am – Noon, Monday – Friday. Safety measures are in place upon your arrival.

See how we are keeping you safe ↗

For an in-person or virtual appointment, call 888-4GW-DOCS

Location

The George Washington University Hospital
900 23rd Street, NW
Washington, DC 20037
888-4GW-DOCS

GW Hospital is located in the heart of Washington, DC and is accessible from the Foggy Bottom metro stop.