Novel Virtual Reality Simulator for Cleft Palate Surgery Training: An Assessment of Educational Feasibility and Traction Among Plastic Surgery Residents.

Abstract

ObjectiveTo evaluate learners' acceptance of multiuser virtual reality (VR) simulation platform while practicing the Furlow repair technique for cleft palate reconstruction.DesignNonrandomized with pre- and postsurveys.SettingTertiary care institution's Department of Surgery September 2023 through August 2024.ParticipantsTwenty plastic surgery residents from level PGY1 to PGY6 from a single institution.InterventionsMultiuser Meta Quest 2 VR simulation-based workshop with an expert surgeon demonstrating a Furlow cleft palate repair. Feedback included audio and visual.Main outcome measuresLearner confidence in using VR as a tool for surgical education, understanding of the Furlow technique, and opinion regarding the incorporation of VR into surgical and medical education. Satisfaction as measured by the Student Evaluation of Educational Quality questionnaire survey with a 5-point Likert scale (1 = strongly disagree to 5 = strongly agree).Results20 residents participated in this study, of which 65% had previously participated in a cleft palate repair and 40% had used VR. After the simulation, trainees' confidence in using VR as a tool for surgical education, understanding of the Furlow technique, and opinion regarding the incorporation of VR into surgical and medical education significantly increased (P < .05). Trainees found the simulation stimulating (4.85 ± 0.67), interesting (4.45 ± 0.83), clear (4.60 ± 0.82), an effective teaching tool (4.75 ± 0.44) and would recommend it to others (4.90 ± 0.31). Participants reported that they would feel somewhat comfortable repeating the simulation alone (3.95 ± 1.05).ConclusionMultiuser VR-based simulation workshops can significantly increase learners' confidence and skills in the Furlow technique and promote positive opinions regarding VR as an educational tool. Learners considered this platform effective and stimulating and would recommend it as an educational tool.