Evaluation of a Virtual Reality CT-Guided Focal Liver Biopsy Module

This study evaluated a novel, virtual reality (VR) computed tomography (CT)-guided focal liver biopsy module for improving residents' knowledge and confidence.

Interventional radiology (IR) residents (n=18) were divided into a control group (PGY-1s) and an intervention group (PGY-2s and PGY-3s). All participants completed pre-, post-, and one-month surveys of confidence and a test of knowledge. The intervention group completed the CT-guided focal liver biopsy VR module between surveys on two occasions. When the intervention group performed the procedure in the VR environment, procedure length, number of scans, and accuracy of needle placement were recorded. Exam scores, confidence ratings, and VR headset performance metrics were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests.

The control group demonstrated no significant changes at any timepoint. The intervention group demonstrated significant knowledge gains pre- to post-survey (p=0.03) with no significant change at follow-up (p=0.09). Confidence in ordering steps and performing the procedure increased significantly pre- to post- (p=0.03 vs p=0.02) and pre- to final- (p=0.01 vs p=0.01). VR needle placement accuracy was stable at one month (p=0.64) though scan counts (p=0.16) and completion times (p=0.03) increased.

The VR module improved residents' knowledge and confidence with gains remaining stable at one month, despite a decline in VR-specific motor skills. These findings demonstrate the benefits of VR as a teaching tool.