Evaluation of a Cost-Effective Virtual Reality Training System in Oral Maxillofacial Surgery: A Pilot Study

Virtual reality (VR) is increasingly being explored in surgical education for its potential to create immersive training environments. However, many VR systems are expensive and require complex setups, limiting their accessibility. This survey study assesses the feasibility of cost-effective VR training on the education of oral maxillofacial surgical trainees and practitioners. Given the limited opportunities for hands-on practice in performing major surgical procedures, cost-effective VR training can provide an essential and accessible platform for developing surgical skills.

Cadaver surgery videos of complex maxillofacial procedures were created in 360° VR and 2D formats and published on YouTube. Trainees enrolled in a cadaver course were surveyed after viewing both formats. Fifteen trainees completed questionnaires comparing their learning experiences, with responses analyzed using Fisher's exact test.

About 73.3% of participants found the VR video improved their understanding of the procedure, and over 75% reported enhanced spatial awareness. However, 86.6% experienced discomfort or motion sickness. In comparison, 66.6% felt the 2D video helped their understanding, and only 40% found it improved spatial awareness. No statistically significant difference was found between the VR and 2D formats for procedural understanding or spatial awareness. Notably, participants rated the VR video as more intuitive and user-friendly compared to the standard 2D video, with the difference achieving statistical significance. Overall, 66.6% preferred the VR format, while 33.3% favored 2D.

This feasibility study highlights the utility of a cost-effective VR solution for enhancing maxillofacial surgery training, providing a practical option for preparing trainees for real-life scenarios.