The assessment of virtual reality training in antromastoidectomy simulation

Patrycja Mickiewicz,Magdalena Węgrzyniak,Maria Bratumiła Gawłowska,Wojciech Gawęcki,Marcin Talar,Małgorzata Wierzbicka

doi:10.1007/s10055-021-00516-3

Patrycja Mickiewicz, Magdalena Węgrzyniak + Show 4 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10055-021-00516-3

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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.

Highlights

A virtual reality (VR) simulation uses computer-generated elements to create specific environments, which can be used in medical education
The group of four ENT specialists experienced in head and neck oncology or rhinology but unexperienced in otosurgery, and 11 otorhinolaryngology residents with no previous experience in temporal bone surgery performed a series of virtual dissections of a VR temporal bone model
Our results show that the time needed to perform virtual antromastoidectomy procedure decreased by 50% from the first to the last session

Summary

Introduction

A virtual reality (VR) simulation uses computer-generated elements to create specific environments, which can be used in medical education. In 2010, the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) advocated the use of simulation. Virtual Reality (2021) 25:1113–1121 tools before performing invasive hemodynamic monitoring, mechanical ventilation and standardized educational intervention (ABIM 2010). The most significant advantage is the ability to objectively monitor and assess a trainee, providing a basis for formative and summative metrics (Wong et al.2014; Zirkle et al 2007; Reddy-Kolanu et al 2011; Wiet et al 2012; Francis et al 2012; Khemani et al 2012; Kerwin et al 2012)

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