Cochlear implant surgery: Learning curve in virtual reality simulation training and transfer of skills to a 3D-printed temporal bone–A prospective trial
Research output: Contribution to journal › Journal article › Research › peer-review
Objective: Mastering Cochlear Implant (CI) surgery requires repeated practice, preferably initiated in a safe–i.e. simulated–environment. Mastoidectomy Virtual Reality (VR) simulation-based training (SBT) is effective, but SBT of CI surgery largely uninvestigated. The learning curve is imperative for understanding surgical skills acquisition and developing competency-based training. Here, we explore learning curves in VR SBT of CI surgery and transfer of skills to a 3D-printed model. Methods: Prospective, single-arm trial. Twenty-four novice medical students completed a pre-training CI inserting test on a commercially available pre-drilled 3D-printed temporal bone. A training program of 18 VR simulation CI procedures was completed in the Visual Ear Simulator over four sessions. Finally, a post-training test similar to the pre-training test was completed. Two blinded experts rated performances using the validated Cochlear Implant Surgery Assessment Tool (CISAT). Performance scores were analyzed using linear mixed models. Results: Learning curves were highly individual with primary performance improvement initially, and small but steady improvements throughout the 18 procedures. CI VR simulation performance improved 33% (p < 0.001). Insertion performance on a 3D-printed temporal bone improved 21% (p < 0.001), demonstrating skills transfer. Discussion: VR SBT of CI surgery improves novices’ performance. It is useful for introducing the procedure and acquiring basic skills. CI surgery training should pivot on objective performance assessment for reaching pre-defined competency before cadaver–or real-life surgery. Simulation-based training provides a structured and safe learning environment for initial training. Conclusion: CI surgery skills improve from VR SBT, which can be used to learn the fundamentals of CI surgery.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Journal | Cochlear Implants International |
Volume | 22 |
Issue number | 6 |
Pages (from-to) | 330-337 |
Number of pages | 8 |
ISSN | 1467-0100 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2021 |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:
© 2021 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.
- 3D print, Cochlear implant, Mastoidectomy, Posterior tympanotomy, Simulation training, Surgical skills, Temporal bone, Virtual reality
Research areas
ID: 303578883