Lipoma Extraction Surgery Simulation in a Multi-user Environment

Abstract

The present work proposes the use of a multi-user virtual environment for simulation of the lipoma extraction surgery. Starting from the characterization of the procedure, all the steps were mapped to a virtual environment. The prototype implemented include two main actors, the surgeon and the medical instrumentalist, and observers that can join the simulation at any time. Voice chat was included in order to allow lifelike operating room communication, a key element for a successful simulation. Initial evaluation indicated that the proposed solution is promising in a work-from-home environment as a complementary tool for medical education.