Virtual pelvic anatomy simulator: a pilot study of usability and perceived effectiveness.

BACKGROUND: Simulators for surgical education are in high demand due to new curriculum requirements for surgical residency accreditation. Our aim was to assess the usability and perceived effectiveness of a three-dimensional (3-D) pelvic anatomy teaching module derived from human magnetic resonance and computerized tomography images. METHODS: A convenience sample of medical students and surgery residents was surveyed. Results are frequency (proportion) of respondents who agreed or strongly agreed with each statement. RESULTS: Ten participants (5 medical students, 5 surgical residents) completed the survey. At baseline, a minority (30%) self-reported a very good knowledge of pelvic anatomy; none reported excellent knowledge of pelvic anatomy. All participants agreed that the module teaches clinically relevant anatomy; 90% preferred this type of education to traditional methods. Fifty percent of participants felt the module needed a higher level of anatomic detail. Participants specifically requested inclusion of Denonvillier's and Waldeyer's fascia, and the component muscles of the pelvic floor. CONCLUSIONS: These pilot results suggest that our 3-D pelvic anatomy teaching module is easy to use and would enhance student learning of anatomy over traditional methods in an effective manner. Further study is warranted to assess the incremental impact of this and standard educational interventions for teaching surgical anatomy.

Virtual pelvic anatomy and surgery simulator: an innovative tool for teaching pelvic surgical anatomy.

Pelvic three-dimensional (3-D) anatomy is complex and can be difficult to visualize. We have developed an alpha-version virtual anatomic model that will facilitate a) student learning of anatomy b) resident preparedness for operation, c) surgical planning for complex, multidisciplinary procedures. This educational module is composed of the virtual anorectum, an anatomically accurate, interactive model of the anorectum and pelvic viscera based on co-registered human computed tomographic (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) images. It also consists of a physical model fabricated from the same data-set using stereolithography. Usability and functionality was assessed in a sample of surgical trainees. Feedback demonstrated that the module is an efficient adjunct to medical education and surgical planning. Ultimately, we envision a deformable virtual model that allows residents and surgeons to rehearse complex surgical procedures by performing virtual surgery, thereby improving preparedness for real operations. Such a model will be integrated into a colorectal surgery educational curriculum, and in the future may represent a unique method of competency testing.