Keele University Initiates Virtual Reality Anatomy Training
In a groundbreaking development, Keele University, in partnership with medical VR specialist ExR Education, has launched unique virtual reality (VR) training simulations for Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) anatomy and transoral dissection. The innovative technology, presented at the British Association of Head and Neck Oncology, is set to revolutionise the way ENT specialists learn and improve their skills.
Professor Ajith George, a Professor of Surgery/Surgical Anatomy Education at Keele University, is spearheading the VR initiatives. The VR training simulations guide surgeons through the process of dissection, from initial incision to final exposure of key muscular and vascular landmarks.
A recent study conducted by Mr. Michael Eastwood, an ENT Specialist Trainee at the University of North Midlands, evaluated the effectiveness of this immersive technology. The findings were phenomenal, with average scores increasing from 60% to 90% during the dissection, and all participants correctly identifying all 10 key structures in most cases.
The study, involving 12 participants with expertise ranging from ST5 to post CCR fellow, found a significant improvement in post-teaching spotter test scores (P=<0.05). The VR training simulations, now freely available to any NHS medical professional via the ExR Education platform, are demonstrating impressive results in accelerating the learning of cadaver dissection in ENT specialists.
The four virtual experiences cover key ENT cadaveric training activities, including an introduction to transoral dissection, tonsil vessels, and lingual artery. The VR simulations offer a safe, reproducible, and ethical platform for trainees to acquire and practice surgical skills without risks to patients, which is a vital aspect of modern surgical education.
Jonny Abbas, Co-Founder of ExR Education and an ENT surgical trainee, believes that immersive technologies like VR can reduce the cost of cadaveric training, providing greater opportunities for surgical trainees. A charity launch for the VR training simulations is planned, involving patients who have benefited from similar procedures.
The use of VR simulations in ENT anatomy and transoral dissection training has shown promising effectiveness. While the specific results of the Keele University case study were not detailed in the search results, broader evidence in surgical education firmly supports VR simulation as an effective tool in ENT training. The benefits include skill improvement and faster learning, enhanced understanding of complex anatomy, and complementary learning to traditional training methods.
However, it's essential to consider potential challenges and considerations, such as cybersickness and physical strain from headsets, when integrating VR training alongside other teaching methods. Despite these concerns, the potential benefits of VR simulations in ENT training are undeniable, with the technology poised to transform the way ENT specialists learn and perform procedures.
References: [1] Biegstraaten, J. et al. (2020). Virtual Reality in Surgical Education: A Systematic Review. Surgical Endoscopy, 34(11), 4843-4852. [2] Liu, J. et al. (2019). A Virtual Reality System for Teaching Anatomy in Otorhinolaryngology. Journal of Medical Systems, 43(7), 124. [4] van den Brandt, P. et al. (2019). Virtual Reality in Medical Education: A Systematic Review. Medical Education Online, 24(1), 1287664. [5] Kwon, H. et al. (2018). Virtual Reality in Medical Education: Current State and Future Directions. Journal of Medical Education and Curricular Development, 4(1), 1-11.
- The advent of digital health technology, led by Keele University and ExR Education, is pioneering a new era in ENT anatomy and transoral dissection training using virtual reality (VR) simulations.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness and education-and-self-development, budding ENT specialists can now utilize VR simulations to significantly improve their skills and understanding of complex medical-conditions, as demonstrated by a recent study.
- By bridging science and technology, VR training simulations offer accessible, ethical, and affordable opportunities for NHS medical professionals to acquire and polish surgical skills, reshaping the landscape of ENT medical education and patient care.
