Healthline Networks has launched an iPad version of its BodyMaps application to provide 3D graphics and animations of the human anatomy fit for the Apple tablet.

The application developer, which operates a medical reference site called Healthline.com, launched the app on Sept. 4. Healthline introduced the Web-based version of BodyMaps in May 2011 as a consumer education tool, and now the iPad app is suitable for health care workers and educators, according to the company.

BodyMaps incorporates more than 1,000 anatomical structures and 30 rotatable models of parts of the body for both males and females.

Cardiologists, neurologists and orthopedists will particularly benefit from the detail of the human anatomy presented in the app. The iPad will allow users to zoom in on the image, mark up body features and share the notations through email.

In addition, the iPad version allows users to move up or down to various sections of the body and choose a male/female toggle. The iPad's Retina high-definition display will make the details of the anatomy easier to study, Healthline reported.

The touch-screen features of the Apple tablet allows users to pinch, expand, drag, and tap on the images. Users can also share images on Facebook or through email.

General Electric funded the creation of the app through its Healthymagination initiative, which promotes the development of health care technology to improve care and lower costs.

Visible Productions produced the 3-D modeling, high resolution graphics and animations, as well as 200 videos, which cover various health conditions and related symptoms and procedures. Healthline developed the app, including its written content.

From layers of muscle to organs and bones, the rich detail of the app allows patients to watch videos and view 3D images to see how osteoarthritis affects the knee or appendicitis affects the abdomen.

Doctors, nurses, chiropractors and physical therapy students will be able to use the app to get an introduction to the anatomy or complement other anatomy apps, according to the company.

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iPad App From Healthline Offers 3D View of Human Anatomy