Virtual reality in surgical training: revolutionising education and bridging gaps in modern practice
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Surgical education has traditionally followed an apprenticeship model, but limitations in hands-on training and insufficient exposure to complex procedures have highlighted the need for innovation. Virtual reality (VR) offers a transformative solution, providing an immersive, risk-free environment where trainees can repeatedly practice procedures and refine technical skills before entering the operating room. Research demonstrates that VR enhances competency, reduces errors, and improves patient outcomes across multiple surgical specialties, including orthopaedics, ophthalmology, and general surgery. By allowing for repeated exposure to complex procedures, VR fosters confidence and mastery in trainees, which addresses gaps in traditional training. Beyond technical skill development, VR has the potential to bridge disparities in surgical education, particularly in resource-limited settings where access to expert mentorship and hands-on training is scarce. Early initiatives in global health have demonstrated VR’s effectiveness in expanding surgical training opportunities worldwide. Despite its promise, challenges remain, including cost, technological limitations, and the need for refinement in haptic feedback and anatomical accuracy. However, continued advancements and integration with traditional methods position VR as a key component of modern surgical education. By embracing VR, the medical field can ensure that the next generation of surgeons is better prepared, more confident, and ultimately safer for patients.
Source: Figshare
Author: Lisa Stallwood (13116482)
Language: English
Subfield: Surgery
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7111868982