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Validation of a Virtual Reality Simulator for Percutaneous Pedicle Screw Insertion
Alexander Charalambou1, Neil Segaren1, Anil Haldar1
1The Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK.
Surgical Technology International
|March 23, 2021
Summary
Virtual Reality (VR) simulators show promise for surgical training, particularly for novice surgeons learning pedicle screw guidewire insertion. The TraumaVision® simulator demonstrated a learning effect, improving performance over time.
Area of Science:
- Medical Simulation
- Surgical Training Technologies
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Surgical training faces challenges due to reduced working hours and increased efficiency demands.
- Virtual Reality (VR) is increasingly utilized to supplement traditional surgical education.
- Percutaneous pedicle screw insertion is a critical spinal procedure requiring specialized training.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the validity of the TraumaVision® VR simulator for training percutaneous pedicle screw guidewire insertion.
- To assess the simulator's effectiveness across different experience levels.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-four participants were categorized into novice, intermediate, and expert surgical experience groups.
- Subjects performed four guidewire insertions using the TraumaVision® simulator.
- Key outcome measures included time, fluoroscopy exposure, and accuracy.
Main Results:
- Significant differences were observed in time taken and fluoroscopy exposure between experience groups (p<0.001).
- Expert surgeons outperformed novice and intermediate groups in these metrics.
- A learning effect was noted in novice and intermediate groups with repeated practice.
Conclusions:
- The TraumaVision® simulator is a valid training tool for pedicle screw guidewire insertion, especially for early-stage learning.
- The simulator appears less suitable for performance assessment.
- Further research is needed to confirm the transferability of VR training to clinical practice.
