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Effectiveness of a Virtual Simulation Training System for Learning Lateral Approach Maxillary Sinus Floor Elevation Skill Among Dental Students: A Pilot Study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: The complexity and limited visibility associated with the deep surgical area make learning lateral approach maxillary sinus floor elevation a significant challenge for dental students in the current circumstances. This study is aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of a virtual simulation training system specifically designed for learning lateral approach maxillary sinus floor elevation skills by comparing it to conventional teaching methods among dental students. METHODS: A total of 40 participants were randomly assigned to two groups: a test group (N = 20) that utilised the virtual simulation training system and a control group (N = 20) that underwent conventional course-based learning. Following the training period, all participants completed a knowledge test and operational assessment to evaluate their learning efficiency. A specific questionnaire was administered to an additional 50 students to facilitate the development of the virtual simulation training system. RESULTS: Scores obtained by the test group in the knowledge test were significantly higher than those of the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the subjective and objective criteria assessed through the operational assessment indicated a notable improvement in the use of the virtual simulation training system. The test group outperformed the control group in both aspects, and these differences were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The questionnaire survey showed all questions regarding overall understanding exhibited a significant improvement after utilising the virtual simulation training system (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The virtual simulation training system proves to be an effective tool for dental students to learn the lateral approach maxillary sinus floor elevation skill.

Source: European Journal Of Dental Education

DOI: 10.1111/eje.70070

Authors: Min Zhang, Rongkai Cao, Lang You, Borui Xu, Yifan Xu, Zhen Fan

Institutions: Tongji University, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Surgical Simulation and Training

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Quality education

Open Access status: green

Funders: Tongji University, Division of Graduate Education