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Effectiveness of a Virtual Simulation Training System for Learning Lateral Approach Maxillary Sinus Floor Elevation
Min Zhang1, Rongkai Cao1, Lang You1
1Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Tooth Restoration and Regeneration & Tongji Research Institute of Stomatology & Department of Implantology, Stomatological Hospital and Dental School, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.
Summary
Dental students learned the lateral approach maxillary sinus floor elevation skill more effectively using a virtual simulation training system compared to traditional methods. This innovative approach significantly improved knowledge and operational assessments.
Area of Science:
- Dental Education
- Surgical Simulation
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Background:
- Learning lateral approach maxillary sinus floor elevation is challenging for dental students due to surgical complexity and limited visibility.
- Conventional teaching methods present significant hurdles in mastering this advanced dental procedure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a virtual simulation training system for teaching lateral approach maxillary sinus floor elevation.
- To compare virtual simulation training with conventional methods for dental students.
Main Methods:
- Forty dental students were divided into a test group (virtual simulation) and a control group (conventional learning).
- Participants underwent knowledge tests and operational assessments post-training.
- A questionnaire informed the development of the virtual simulation system with 50 additional students.
Main Results:
- The virtual simulation group achieved significantly higher scores on knowledge tests compared to the control group (p<0.05).
- Operational assessments showed statistically significant improvements in both subjective and objective criteria for the virtual simulation group (p<0.05).
- Student feedback indicated a significant overall understanding improvement after using the virtual simulation system (p<0.05).
Conclusions:
- Virtual simulation training is an effective tool for dental students acquiring lateral approach maxillary sinus floor elevation skills.
- The virtual simulation system offers a superior learning experience compared to traditional methods for this specific surgical technique.
