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Updated: Aug 6, 2026
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Mixed Reality Assisted Radical Endoscopic Thyroidectomy
Published on: January 31, 2025
The Role of Augmented Reality in Advancing Medical Training Techniques: A Pilot RCT Study on Cricothyroidotomy
Hyunchung Cho1, Jongchul Kim2, Sumin Kim1
1Department of Digital Health, SAIHST, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, Korea.
Yonsei Medical Journal
|July 22, 2026
Summary
Augmented reality (AR) training using HoloLens for cricothyroidotomy showed potential for improving medical professionals' confidence. While not significantly faster, AR training may enhance learning and reduce mental demand in critical airway management.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education Technology
- Surgical Simulation
- Airway Management Training
Background:
- Cricothyroidotomy is a vital emergency procedure for difficult airways, yet infrequently performed, leading to skill decay.
- Medical professionals often lack sufficient familiarity and confidence with cricothyroidotomy due to limited practice opportunities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of augmented reality (AR) training using HoloLens for cricothyroidotomy compared to traditional methods.
- To assess AR's impact on participants' performance ability, confidence, self-efficacy, and satisfaction in learning the procedure.
- To gather data for integrating AR into medical education curricula for surgical skills training.
Main Methods:
- A pre- and post-test design was employed, comparing an AR group (HoloLens) with a non-head-mounted device (non-HMD) group.
- Both groups received initial PowerPoint instruction; the AR group utilized 3D models via HoloLens for practice.
- Effectiveness was measured by procedure time, skill confidence, workload (NASA-TLX), usability (SUS), and participant satisfaction.
Main Results:
- No statistically significant difference in cricothyroidotomy procedure time was observed between the AR and non-HMD groups post-training.
- The AR group demonstrated a significant improvement in confidence levels, with both groups showing similar skill proficiency over time.
- Participant satisfaction was comparable, though the AR group reported lower mental workload during the procedure.
Conclusions:
- Augmented reality training holds promise for enhancing learning and confidence in cricothyroidotomy without negatively impacting performance.
- Further research is needed to optimize AR integration and overcome initial technical challenges in medical training.
- AR technology may offer a valuable adjunct to traditional methods for improving proficiency in critical surgical procedures.
