Exploring the use of virtual reality in surgical education

Abstract

In recent years, the development of virtual reality (VR) has progressed significantly. 1 VR, due to its ability to design a standard, reproducible, and controllable environment, 2 has been increasingly used from simple graphical application to advanced usages in the automobile industry, architecture, and medicine 3 as well as the production, the visualization of science, engineering, and training. 4R has been defined by different perspectives. 5Gaddis defined VR as: "a computer-generated simulation of the real or imagined environment or world." 6In a definition by Sherman and Craig, the key elements to experiencing VR includes a virtual world, immersion, sensory feedback (responding to user input), and interaction. 7In other words, VR is the term used to describe a simulated 3D computer environment that allows the user to interact with this environment.Most VR environments provide tools for visual interaction with the user, although others use different types of sensors to provide a more real sense of environment. 8,9 adays, VR by creating a 3D simulated environment has been considered a useful tool in many areas, such as medical education and treatment. 6,10-12VR is mainly applied in practicing medical skills, to show 3D anatomy, simulate surgery and surgical planning, and to help treat phobias, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, disability, and rehabilitation. 6,[13][14]][15][16][17] Many research and controlled trials have shown that VR for therapeutic goals is effective, such as in phobia and anxiety disorders, 18 neurorehabilitation or telerehabilitation for recovery of function after stroke and balance disorders, 10,[19][20][21][22] developmental delay, 23 Parkinson's disease, 24 and pain management. 10,25herefore, VR products have potential advantages for medical care and can create markets with suitable returns on investment. 26owadays, one of the information technology (IT) opportunities in education is simulation.For example, multi-dimensional simulation as a new method can improve medical education. 27In 'virtual surgery' , as the most common type of medical

Topics & Concepts