The utility of virtual reality surgical simulation in the undergraduate otorhinolaryngology curriculum

To examine the impact of temporal bone virtual reality surgical simulator use in the undergraduate otorhinolaryngology curriculum.

Medical students attended a workshop involving the use of a temporal bone virtual reality surgical simulator. Students completed a pre-workshop questionnaire on career interests. A post-workshop questionnaire evaluated the perceived usefulness and enjoyment of the virtual reality surgical simulator experience, and assessed changes in their interest in ENT.

Thirty-two fifth-year University of Auckland medical students were recruited. The majority of students (53.1 per cent) had already chosen their career path. The simulator experience was useful for: stimulating thoughts around career plans (71.9 per cent), providing hands-on experience (93.8 per cent) and teaching disease processes (93.8 per cent). After the workshop, 53.1 per cent of students were more interested in a career in ENT.

Virtual reality may be a fun and engaging way of teaching ENT. Furthermore, it could help guide student career planning.