Healthcare providers' knowledge, attitude, and satisfaction toward using virtual reality in surgical training in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Virtual reality (VR) is a recent technology that produces a three-dimensional computer-generated environment to enhance the real-world experience of surgical practice. VR might facilitate learning and training by realistic simulation conducted in a nonclinical environment to limit medical errors resulting from insufficient experience. Methods: This study aimed to investigate the attitude level among healthcare providers (HCPs) about VR use in surgery in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire including 16 questions. Results: The study included 612 HCPs from different regions in Saudi Arabia. Around 351 participants (60.7%) were surgeons. About 424 participants (69.3%) showed a good attitude toward VR in surgical training in Saudi Arabia. A better attitude was observed among participants aged 30 years or less (p = 0.043), participants fromthe Southern region (p < 0.001), surgeons (p < 0.001), residents (p < 0.001), and participants who attended surgical training, including VR (p < 0.001). About 398 (71.3%) participants showed good knowledge of VR in surgical training. Higher satisfaction with the training and education was reported among surgeons (p < 0.001), residents (p < 0.001), and participants who attended surgical training, including VR (p < 0.001). Conclusion: This study demonstrated that most participants had a high level of attitude regarding the use of surgical training among HCPs in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, factors such as age, educational degree, specialty, and surgical training were associated with participants' attitudes. Further larger studies are required among surgeons to examine the knowledge, practice, satisfaction level, and the related factors that affect VR use in surgery.