Augmented Reality Simulation Can Be Implemented to Successfully Teach Interns Arthroscopy

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Medical Simulation
• Surgical Education

Background:

• Arthroscopy is a crucial skill for orthopaedic surgery residents.
• Effective training methods are needed to impart these skills safely and efficiently.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a simulation-based arthroscopy curriculum for orthopaedic surgery interns.
• To assess the curriculum's impact on resident skills, confidence, and feasibility.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-one interns utilized the VirtaMed augmented reality simulator for Fundamentals of Arthroscopy Surgical Training (FAST), shoulder, and knee modules.
• Pre- and post-training skill evaluations and self-confidence surveys were administered.
• Residents completed simulation training over a 1-month skills rotation.

Main Results:

• 100% completion rate with significant improvements in all modules (FAST, knee, shoulder).
• Skill performance enhanced in areas like image centering, triangulation, probing, diagnostic arthroscopy, and loose body removal.
• Resident self-confidence increased significantly (15.4 to 21.2, P < .001).
• High ratings for acceptability (4.8), appropriateness (4.6), and feasibility (4.7).
• Total training time averaged 4.9 hours.

Conclusions:

• The simulation curriculum effectively improved arthroscopic skills and resident confidence.
• The program is feasible, acceptable, and can be completed within a 1-month rotation.
• High-fidelity simulation offers a valuable tool for surgical skills training.