Applications of Virtual Reality

Obviously, it's a known paradox that simulation is the one-stop solution for surgeons to explore, learn, practice new surgical techniques. On the contrary, the cost incurred to train the physicians with simulation is high and provides a non -interactive surgical training. However, Virtual reality modernized simulation by making interactive training with easily portable goggles with screens, fitted with sensors at an affordable price for surgeons. Since it is accessible for every physician to use, there are various applications of virtual reality simulation in the surgical field.

Virtual reality is familiar not only for its adaptable purpose but also it’s an indispensable learning tool in surgical training. Let’s throw light on some crucial applications of virtual reality simulation in various surgical fields.

Oral and maxillofacial surgery

As an exciting fact, there are 101 articles based on the broad application of virtual reality in oral and maxillofacial surgery. One of the most frequent applications of virtual reality is dental implantology. With the aid of virtual reality, dentists conceptualize, explore, and get handy with the dental surgeries with control over a clear-cut 3D animated model. It also helps practitioners to insert the dental implants exactly to the prospective patients in a short time. This in turn promotes progress in the chances of success rate of surgeries.

Moreover, virtual reality simulation is extensively utilized in orthognathic surgery. Orthognathic surgery resolves the irregularities of jawbones related to structure, growth, airway issues etc, and adds beauty to the facial appearance. Based on the American Society of plastic report, 17.5 million people underwent facial surgeries in 2018.

Evidently, the demand growth of maxillofacial surgeries rapidly increases like the wind per year. The latest technology in the surgical field particularly Virtual reality plays a key role in enhancing the physical fitness as well as the well-being of prospective patients. Moreover, allows an orthodontist to examine the defect with precision encounter by patients, resolves them within a short span.

Orthopedic Surgery

There is a research-based study manifests that a virtual reality orthopedic surgical simulator is an incredible learning tool for surgeons to outperform surgeries on musculoskeletal systems. Virtual Reality aids orthopedic surgeons to evaluate and rectify the irregularity of bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. The simulation allows the surgeons to utilize, operate and examine various surgical devices and refine the surgery procedures for quick recovery of patients.

With the help of a virtual reality surgical simulator, complex orthopedic surgeries like nerve surgery of brachial plexus, fixation of complex fractures of lower end of humerus extending into the elbow joint, fixation of the ulnar fracture, scoliosis- surgery to rectify abnormally curved spine, can be easily grasped and practice by the surgeons. Also, it makes them skilled as well as techie.

Furthermore, a specific medical study was executed on the impact of using virtual reality orthopedic surgical simulation in practicing dynamic hip screw surgery, fixation of trochanteric femoral fracture. Positively, with the virtual reality simulator surgeons executed the surgeries well as they practice several times in an interactive three-dimensional virtual environment. As a consequence, it trains the physicians with a safe learning facility as well as reduces the risk of prospective patients.

Oncology surgery

Indeed, worldwide more than 80% of people with cancer have to undergo surgery, but only 25% of people have access to safe, nominal, and timely surgery. The most crucial cause for failure is the need for a high fund to train novices. Fortunately, the evolution in 3D animations especially virtual reality drastically modernized surgical training to more user-friendly and cost-effective.

Moreover, there is scientific proof to back up this claim. In that study, specially made virtual reality software and Oculus Rift hardware that make the physicians typically interact with the 3D virtual environment such as several hand interaction with animated body. It induces the feel of reality as surgeons interact with 3D animated bodies, a replica model of human anatomy including blood vessels, veins, arteries, muscles, and tissues.

As a matter of course, oncologist surgeons focussed on learning and practicing the surgical procedure without distractions. Successfully, novices are efficiently trained and equipped with technical skills with the help of virtual reality surgical simulation at an affordable cost. Obviously, Virtual reality surgical simulation - an era of oncology surgical training!

Cardiovascular surgery

There are various works of literature and papers that explain the critical role of virtual reality surgical simulation in cardiovascular surgery. Do you know which country was the first to utilize simulation in the cardiovascular surgery field? In 1990, Brazilian Medical School used simulation as an educating tool to demonstrate about cardiopulmonary resuscitation, vascular accesses, video laparoscopy, anesthesia procedures, and techniques. Brazilian medical courses such as Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) were key factors that contribute to the popularization of simulation in that region.

In 2009, the School of medicine of the University of São Paulo established a study center on Skills and Simulation laboratory, which provided guidance on high fidelity simulation. They also commenced a new mixed laboratory with virtual reality simulation for illustrating the surgery on pigs and practicing the chief residents on new innovative surgery techniques. As a result, the application of virtual reality simulation in cardiovascular surgery widens every year.

Well, hope you had a glimpse of the merits of virtual reality surgical simulators in the surgery field. If you’re interested to explore your specific study project with 3D animated simulation, we are here to guide you to reach your vision.