SE03 ANATOMY IN THE VIRTUAL WORLD

Abstract

Background Recently, the use of 3‐dimensional virtual reality anatomy teaching tools has generated interest. Although they would appear to have the potential to revolutionise the way in which anatomy is taught, further evaluation is required. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of 3‐dimensional virtual reality as a tool for teaching anatomy to basic surgical trainees.Methods Basic surgical trainees from The Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Flinders Medical Centre in South Australia were invited to participate in an anatomy teaching session. Liver and pancreas anatomy were the topics covered during the session and these were taught using either standard or virtual reality teaching techniques. Participants were asked to evaluate the two modalities by way of multiple choice examination, pre and post session evaluation forms and commenting on their preferred teaching modality.Results 16 participants were involved in the study. 1 of 16 participants preferred teaching with standard techniques. 14 out of 16 participants found teaching with virtual reality to be either good or very good. The number who thought their knowledge of anatomy had improved with either technique was similar (7 out of 16 with virtual reality, 6 out of 16 with standard techniques). Post teaching session test results showed similar improvements with both teaching modalities.Conclusions The 3‐dimensional virtual reality teaching method was very well received by participants and is at least as good as standard teaching techniques. The use of 3‐dimensional virtual reality may offer a more interesting and useful option for anatomy instruction.