Summary

Virtual Reality (VR) training significantly enhances orthopedic surgery residents' satisfaction and self-confidence in performing ACL reconstruction, demonstrating its value as a self-directed learning tool and supporting its integration into surgical education programs.

Abstract

Introduction

Virtual Reality (VR) has established itself as a significant academic tool within medical surgery residencies. Despite the rising adoption of VR, evidence regarding residents’ satisfaction and self-confidence in procedural execution remains limited. This study aims to examine the degree of satisfaction and self-confidence in procedural execution among orthopedic surgery residents following VR training. The hypothesis is that VR training is positively received and significantly enhances residents' self-confidence in executing trained surgical procedures.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 12 residents from a three-year orthopedic surgery program, excluding those with prior VR simulation experience. Participants engaged in at least two VR training sessions on Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (ACLR) using an inside-out technique via the PrecisionOS software on the Oculus Quest 2 device. Satisfaction and self-confidence in procedural execution were evaluated through a validated Likert-scale survey before and after VR training. Survey validation was conducted with an expert panel review (n=8) and statistical analysis for internal consistency using Cronbach's alpha coefficient.

Results

The survey's validation by the expert panel was satisfactory, with a 95% approval rating for the questions, and internal consistency was excellent (Cronbach's alpha = 0.92). Eleven residents (91.7%) completed at least two training sessions and responded to the surveys. Over 80% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the experience enhanced their understanding of how to perform the trained procedure and apply theoretical knowledge, provided an engaging learning experience, is recommendable for medical education, and they would repeat the VR procedure. Additionally, they felt confident that VR training helped developing necessary surgical skills to perform in a clinical setting and acknowledge that it is their responsibility to learn what they need to acquire from the simulation. About 68.2% praised the simulator’s immersion and realism. Notably, VR training was particularly effective in boosting self-confidence among first-year residents to assist in surgery and among third-year residents to lead the procedure as the primary surgeon.

Discussion And Conclusion

VR training for ACLR has been positively evaluated by orthopedic surgery residents, with over 80% expressing satisfaction with the experience and supporting it as a valuable self-directed learning activity. Importantly, the training significantly enhanced their self-confidence in procedural execution, improving their preparedness to perform surgical procedures as both assistants and primary surgeons. These findings support the integration of VR-based training into orthopedic residency programs to enhance surgical education and confidence.