Virtual reality simulation training in a high-fidelity procedure suite: operator appraisal

Area of Science:

• Medical Simulation
• Virtual Reality in Healthcare
• Interventional Radiology Training

Background:

• Traditional training for endovascular procedures faces limitations in realism and accessibility.
• The development of advanced simulation technologies is crucial for enhancing procedural skills.
• Hybrid procedure suites offer a complex environment for interventional procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the face and content validity of a novel virtual reality (VR) simulation.
• To assess a full physics, full procedural VR simulation integrated into a hybrid procedure suite.
• To determine the realism and effectiveness of VR simulation for training endovascular skills.

Main Methods:

• Radiologists and cardiologists with extensive endovascular experience underwent training on a VR simulation.
• Participants assessed the functionality and realism of the simulation's components, including C-arm, operating table, and performance elements.
• Statistical analysis, including multiple regression, was used to evaluate the simulation's predictive validity.

Main Results:

• The simulation's C-arm and operating table functionality and realism were rated highly (80/100) with excellent reliability (α = 0.89-0.92).
• Performance realism of procedural elements (catheter, guide wire, fluoroscopy, ECG, vital signs) significantly predicted overall positive assessment (mean = 87/100).
• The simulation demonstrated strong predictive validity (r = 0.85, r² = 0.67, P < .0001).

Conclusions:

• This study provides a quantitative evaluation of a comprehensive VR simulation of an authentic procedure suite.
• The simulation offers a high-fidelity training environment for technical, procedural, and management skills in image-guided intravascular procedures.
• This advanced VR facility can enhance the training of complex skills within a realistic procedural context.