ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: To develop a virtual-reality subtotal tonsillectomy simulation for surgical training. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Computer models of a male patient's head and throat, and the surgical instrument, were created. These models were combined with custom-built simulation software. Recently developed tissue simulation technology that exploits recent developments in programmable graphics processing units was used to model tonsillar tissue in a way that allows surgical interaction whilst providing accurate tactile feedback. Current real-time rendering techniques were used to provide realistic visuals. Iterative refinements were made to the simulation, and in particular the tissue simulation, in consultation with relevantly experienced surgeons. RESULTS: We have used newly developed tissue simulation technology to developed a novel virtual-reality subtotal tonsillectomy simulation for surgical training, the first of its kind. CONCLUSION: Early feedback suggests that this simulator can help surgeons to rapidly acquire subtotal tonsillectomy surgical skills in a risk-free and realistic virtual environment.
Subject(s)
Computer Simulation , Computer-Assisted Instruction/methods , Tonsillectomy/education , User-Computer Interface , Computer-Assisted Instruction/instrumentation , Equipment Design , Feedback , Humans , Male , Pain, Postoperative/prevention & control , Tonsillectomy/instrumentation , TouchABSTRACT
Computer based patient simulators can provide an alternative to inanimate clinical skills training. Here we present a virtual reality throat examination simulation capable of simulating a range of throat pathologies. The computer interface employs haptic feedback to allow students to interact naturally with the software.
Subject(s)
Computer Simulation , Pharynx/physiology , User-Computer Interface , Clinical Competence , Education, Medical , Humans , Imaging, Three-Dimensional , South Australia , TouchABSTRACT
Virtual Reality has some advantages over traditional teaching and learning media. Here we describe a VR Jigsaw which uses a novel interface to facilitate learning the anatomy of the skull. A small trial was performed which indicates that the software succeeds at engaging students and suggests that their comprehension of complex 3D structures was improved.
Subject(s)
Anatomy/education , Education, Medical/methods , Imaging, Three-Dimensional , User-Computer Interface , Humans , Skull/anatomy & histology , South AustraliaABSTRACT
We demonstrate web-based ECG monitor simulators that enable students to gain and demonstrate competence with equipment specific to a particular workplace.