A Framework for Real-Time Visualization of Experimental and Simulated Ultrasound Images in Augmented Reality

2D ultrasound imaging has many advantages, among which ease-of-use, low cost and non-ionizing nature. However, in several applications, its operability is limited and requires in-depth knowledge and/or operator experience. This paper presents an augmented reality framework that inscribes itself in the standard workflow of ultrasound imaging. By using a flexible architecture, the proposed framework alleviates tasks such as medical procedures, practician training or dataset creation. This article showcases the framework through three applications, experimental images visualization, interactive simulated image generation and pre-operative 3-D reconstruction.