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Virtual Reality and Three-Dimensional Printed Models Improve the Morphological Understanding in Learning Mandibular
Henglei Zhang1, Yu He1, Ying Chen1
1Department of Craniomaxillofacila Surgery, Plastic Surgery Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
Frontiers in Surgery
|January 10, 2022
Summary
Virtual reality (VR) and 3D printed (3DP) models improved junior surgeons' accuracy in learning mandibular sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) procedures compared to traditional methods. These advanced tools enhance morphological understanding for better clinical practice.
Area of Science:
- Surgical Education
- Anatomical Modeling
- Medical Technology
Background:
- Mandibular sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) corrects deformities but is challenging for junior surgeons due to insufficient morphological knowledge.
- Virtual reality (VR) and 3D printed (3DP) models are increasingly used in anatomy education.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of traditional educational methods, VR, and 3DP models in teaching junior surgeons the morphological aspects of SSRO.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled study with 81 participants assigned to Control, VR, or 3DP groups.
- Objective tests assessed landmark identification, osteotomy line drawing, and SSRO description accuracy.
- Subjective tests gathered feedback on learning experience and tool usability.
Main Results:
- VR and 3DP groups showed significantly better accuracy in drawing osteotomy lines and describing SSRO compared to the control group.
- No significant difference was found in anatomical landmark identification across groups.
- VR and 3DP models received positive subjective feedback for usefulness, presentation, and enjoyment.
Conclusions:
- VR and 3DP models effectively enhance morphological understanding of SSRO-related anatomy for surgical trainees.
- 3DP models show promise in bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical application in SSRO surgery.
