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Improved Complex Skill Acquisition by Immersive Virtual Reality Training: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Ryan Lohre1, Aaron J Bois2, George S Athwal3
1Department of Orthopaedics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American Volume
|January 24, 2020
Summary
Immersive virtual reality (VR) training significantly enhances orthopaedic residents' surgical skills and knowledge acquisition compared to traditional methods. This VR simulation offers a more efficient and effective learning experience for complex procedures.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education Technology
- Surgical Simulation
- Orthopaedic Surgery Training
Background:
- Limited literature exists on immersive virtual reality (VR) simulation in orthopaedic education.
- The study addresses the need to evaluate novel training methods for surgical residents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the validity and efficacy of immersive VR training for orthopaedic residents.
- To compare VR simulation against traditional learning methods in a multicenter, randomized controlled trial.
Main Methods:
- Nineteen senior orthopaedic residents and 7 consultant surgeons participated.
- Participants were randomized to immersive VR or traditional learning (journal article).
- The task involved achieving optimal glenoid exposure, assessed via OSATS, lab metrics, and knowledge tests.
Main Results:
- Immersive VR was superior in teaching glenoid exposure (p = 0.01) and task completion time (p = 0.04).
- VR training reduced learning time by 570% and improved OSATS instrument handling scores (p = 0.03).
- No significant differences were found in verbal or written knowledge scores between groups.
Conclusions:
- Immersive VR substantially improves translational technical and nontechnical skills acquisition in orthopaedic residents.
- The study demonstrates face, content, construct, and transfer validity for immersive VR in surgical education.
