Does virtual reality simulation have a role in training trauma and orthopaedic surgeons?

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Medical Simulation
• Surgical Education

Background:

• Virtual reality (VR) simulation is increasingly explored for surgical training.
• Assessing the evidence for VR simulation's benefits in orthopaedics is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate current evidence on the benefits of VR simulation in orthopaedic surgical training.
• To identify gaps for future research in VR surgical simulation.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across MEDLINE, Embase, and Google Scholar.
• Titles, abstracts, and references of identified articles were reviewed for relevance.

Main Results:

• 31 articles (2004-2016) on VR orthopaedic simulators were analyzed.
• 18 studies confirmed construct validity, 8 showed skill acquisition, and 5 demonstrated improved operating theatre performance.

Conclusions:

• VR simulation shows 'real-world' benefits for knee and shoulder arthroscopy training.
• Evidence for other orthopaedic procedures and cost-effectiveness requires further investigation.