Application of mixed augmented reality with holographic platform for interactive teaching of veterinary osteology

Veterinary anatomy education increasingly demands innovative strategies to enhance spatial understanding and student engagement. Mixed augmented reality (MAR) has emerged as a promising tool, integrating virtual anatomical models into real environments. This study aimed to describe the pratical implemention and evaluate the pedagogical benefits of a MAR-based holographic platform for teaching selected osteological structures in veterinary anatomy. A Veterinary Anatomy Holographic Platform (VAHP) was developed using 3D digitized bone models integrated into a mixed reality display. Anatomical models of equine skull, scapula, femur, and the canine axis were processed using photogrammetry and 3D Slicer, then rendered with Unreal Engine 4.27. The platform was implemented during regular classrom session with 80 veterinary students. Learners interacted with the holographic models and subsequently completed a four-question proficiency test. Results were compared to a control activity using real anatomical specimens and analyzed using Z-tests for two proportions. Significant improvements in permfomance were observed in three of the four test questions after using the VAHP (p < 0.05), particularly for structure requiring complex spatial reasoning. No statistical improvement was found for one question (p = 0.058). The holographic session were well accepted by students and promoted engagement in the classroom. This proof-of-concept study showed that the VAHP, delivered through a mixed reality headset, can enhance anatomical learning and engagement in osteology. Broader and longer-term studies are needed to confirm its impact and guide curriculum integration.