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Updated: Apr 18, 2026
Author Spotlight: Segmentation and VR for Advanced Neurovascular Interventions
Published on: April 5, 2024
Virtual reality cerebral aneurysm clipping simulation with real-time haptic feedback
Ali Alaraj1, Cristian J Luciano, Daniel P Bailey
1*Department of Neurosurgery, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; ‡Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; §ImmersiveTouch, Inc., Westmont, Illinois; ¶College of Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; ‖Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; and #Department of Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York.
A new virtual reality simulator with haptic feedback can help train neurosurgery residents in aneurysm clipping. This immersive tool provides realistic anatomy and surgical guidance, preparing them for complex procedures.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Medical Simulation
- Virtual Reality Training
Background:
- Surgical treatment of cerebral aneurysms is decreasing, while complexity is increasing.
- There is a need for advanced simulation tools for neurosurgical education.
- Training future neurosurgeons in aneurysm clipping techniques is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel haptic-based virtual reality simulator for aneurysm clipping.
- To evaluate the simulator's usefulness in training neurosurgical residents.
Main Methods:
- A real-time haptic feedback virtual reality simulator was created using the ImmersiveTouch platform.
- A 3D immersive virtual reality environment simulated a middle cerebral artery aneurysm from CT angiography data.
- Seventeen neurosurgery residents tested the simulator and provided feedback on its realism and utility.
Main Results:
- Most residents found the simulator useful for preparing for real surgery and preoperative rehearsal.
- Two-thirds felt the 3D anatomy closely resembled real operative anatomy and aided surgical approach decisions.
- One-third reported realistic haptic feedback for aneurysm clipping simulation.
Conclusions:
- Neurosurgery residents perceived the virtual reality simulator as a valuable training tool.
- The simulator is particularly beneficial given the limited opportunities for residents to perform aneurysm clippings during training.
