Virtual reality simulation training improve diagnostic knee arthroscopy and meniscectomy skills: a prospective transfer validity study

Abstract

Purpose Limited data exist on the actual transfer of skills learned using a virtual reality (VR) simulator for arthroscopy training because studies mainly focused on VR performance improvement and not on transfer to real word (transfer validity). The purpose of this single-blinded, controlled trial was to objectively investigate transfer validity in the context of initial knee arthroscopy training. Methods For this study, 36 junior resident orthopaedic surgeons (postgraduate year one and year two) without prior experience in arthroscopic surgery were enrolled to receive standard knee arthroscopy surgery training (NON-VR group) or standard training plus training on a hybrid virtual reality knee arthroscopy simulator (1 h/month) (VR group). At inclusion, all participants completed a questionnaire on their current arthroscopic technical skills. After 6 months of training, both groups performed three exercises that were evaluated independently by two blinded trainers: i) arthroscopic partial meniscectomy on a bench-top knee simulator; ii) supervised diagnostic knee arthroscopy on a cadaveric knee; and iii) supervised knee partial meniscectomy on a cadaveric knee. Training level was determined with the Arthroscopic Surgical Skill Evaluation Tool (ASSET) score. Results Overall, performance (ASSET scores) was better in the VR group than NON-VR group (difference in the global scores: p < 0.001, in bench-top meniscectomy scores: p = 0.03, in diagnostic knee arthroscopy on a cadaveric knee scores: p = 0.04, and in partial meniscectomy on a cadaveric knee scores: p = 0.02). Subgroup analysis by postgraduate year showed that the year-one NON-VR subgroup performed worse than the other subgroups, regardless of the exercise. Conclusion This study showed the transferability of the technical skills acquired by novice residents on a hybrid virtual reality simulator to the bench-top and cadaveric models. Surgical skill acquired with a VR arthroscopy surgical simulator might safely improve arthroscopy competences in the operating room, also helping to standardise resident training and follow their progress. Level of evidence 2

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries: Current Concepts and Future Perspectives

“…A study published by Tronchot et al showed that skills developed on a hybrid VR simulator could be successfully transferred to bench-top and cadaveric models [103]. This suggests that training with a VR arthroscopy surgical simulator has the potential to safely improve arthroscopic skills in the operating room.…”

“…It is currently recognized that VR simulators may play a critical role in the evolution of surgical training, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the quality of patient care [103][104][105]. With surgical and educational applications, an algorithm has been developed that automatically segments the arthroscopic frame to offer surgeons added contextual awareness.…”