Next-generation Virtual and Augmented Reality in Surgical Education: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Medical Technology
• Surgical Education
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) has a long history in surgery.
• Recent advancements in VR/AR technology have led to more accessible and powerful devices.
• This review examines the impact of these newer VR/AR technologies on surgical training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the impact of "Phase 2" VR/AR technology on surgical training.
• To assess the effectiveness of VR/AR tools in acquiring technical surgical skills.

Main Methods:

• A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed and Web of Science.
• Eleven comparative studies on VR/AR in surgical education were identified.
• Grey literature was searched, and study quality was assessed using the Newcastle Ottawa scale.

Main Results:

• All reviewed studies indicated positive associations between VR/AR use and skill acquisition.
• Benefits include improved speed of learning, multitasking ability, procedural accuracy, and hand-eye coordination.
• The grey literature also highlighted the advantages of VR/AR in surgical training.

Conclusions:

• VR/AR technology shows promise for enhancing surgical skill acquisition speed.
• Current conclusions are tentative due to methodological heterogeneity and recent adoption.
• Further research with larger sample sizes and robust outcomes is recommended.