Virtual reality-based training improves thoracentesis skills in medical interns: a randomized controlled trial

Thoracentesis is an essential clinical procedure, but its teaching is often limited by patient safety concerns and insufficient opportunities for repeated practice. Virtual reality (VR) offers immersive, repeatable simulation-based training; however, its effectiveness for thoracentesis has not been rigorously evaluated.

In this randomized controlled trial, 20 medical interns were randomly assigned to either a VR-based training group (n = 10) or a traditional training control group (n = 10). The VR group received theoretical instruction plus VR simulation practice (1 h/day, 4 days/week for 3 weeks), while the control group received the same theoretical instruction plus traditional mannequin-based practice. All participants completed a 4-week training program. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, week 2, week 3, and week 4 using a standardized 300-point scoring rubric (preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative components). Statistical comparisons were made using t-tests and chi-square tests. The primary outcome was the final thoracentesis procedural score at week 4.

No adverse events occurred. Baseline characteristics and initial assessment scores did not differ significantly between groups. At week 2, the VR group scored significantly lower than the control group (p < 0.05), reflecting an initial learning curve. However, at week 3 and week 4, the VR group significantly outperformed the control group (p < 0.01). At the final assessment, 80% (8/10) of the VR group achieved scores ≥ 270 points (excellent), compared to only 10% (1/10) of the control group.

VR-based training may improve thoracentesis procedural skills after an initial adaptation period. VR appears to be a useful adjunct to traditional medical education, though these findings are preliminary due to the small sample size.