The assessment of virtual reality training in antromastoidectomy simulation

Abstract

Virtual reality (VR) may be a good alternative for cadaveric temporal bone surgical dissection courses, which are an important part of otolaryngology resident’s training. The aim of the study was to assess the VR temporal bone surgery simulator in an antromastoidectomy simulation. The VR system was based on the Geomagic Touch Haptic Device from 3D System. The research was designed as a prospective study, with three sessions of VR simulation training. The group of four ENT specialists unexperienced in otosurgery and 11 otorhinolaryngology residents performed a series of virtual dissections of a VR temporal bone model. Two experts with a broad experience in ear surgery participated in the study as supervisors for all the participants. At the end of each session, the experts controlled the accuracy of the simulated surgery performance assigning positive points for each correctly performed step and negative points for each mistake. After each session, participants of the study were asked to fill in the questionnaire concerning their impression of a VR system simulation. The evaluation of every simulation (total score) was based on the duration of a VR session, the quality of performance (positive points) and the number of mistakes (negative points). During consecutive VR sessions, evident shortening of the length of performance, as well as an improvement in the quality of performance and reduction in mistakes, was observed. Sixty percent of study participants answered that signaling damage to the critical elements was good (40%—sufficient), and 67% assessed that they had made a progress in consecutive sessions. After three sessions, 100% of participants indicated higher self-confidence in relation to their own surgical skills. Also, all the participants indicated that VR training should be included in a routine educational program for medical students. VR training provides a structured, safe and supportive environment to familiarize oneself with complex anatomy and practical skills.

Strategies to reduce visual attention changes while learning and training in extended reality environments

“…Also, it was identified that VR fostered active learning. Mickiewicz [ 40 ] evaluated the VR impact on otolaryngology resident’s training. VR training allowed the participants to significantly improve virtual antromastoidectomy performance and resulted in a shortening surgery duration and number of mistakes made.…”

What is the Current State of Extended Reality Use in Otolaryngology Training? A Scoping Review

“… 23,27 The remaining 95% ( n = 38) included data categorized as level‐2, many of which also included level‐1 data (Data S2), with none reaching level‐3 or 4 (Table III). Analysis of learner reaction (level‐1) was based on interviews or subjective ratings and survey comments 23,27,31,32,39,42,43,61 . Level‐2 evaluation comprised of knowledge performance, cognitive load, and most frequently, skill performance.…”

“…Analysis of learner reaction (level-1) was based on interviews or subjective ratings and survey comments. 23,27,31,32,39,42,43,61 Level-2 evaluation comprised of knowledge performance, cognitive load, and most frequently, skill performance. Knowledge performance was evaluated using researcher-developed assessments including both closed and open-ended questions.…”

“…Learner reaction Subjective rating using a custom survey using Likert scales, 39,42 agreement response anchors, 31,32 and openended comments. 43 One-on-one interview. 26 Kirkpatrick Level 2: Evaluates the degree to which participants learned from the training.…”

The Whole Ship Simulation Training Platform Based on Virtual Reality

“…In recent years, virtual reality (VR) technology has developed rapidly. The simulator based on VR has become an important way in learning and training, and has a wide range in many fields [1]- [4]. If VR can be better applied to navigation training and teaching, it will effectively solve the above problems.…”