Virtual reality technology and surgical training--a survey of general surgeons in Ireland.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Virtual Reality Technology (VRT) is a validated method of training in industry but only recently has found a place in the postgraduate surgical curriculum. AIMS: We surveyed 143 Irish consultant surgeons to ascertain their opinions on this topical issue. METHODS: The survey consisted of 22 questions to which the consultants were asked to respond by choosing from a 5-point Likert scale. RESULTS: Sixty-five per cent responded. A majority of 72% had seen VRT but only 47% had 'hands on' experience. Forty-six per cent believed that they were poorly informed regarding available technologies. As consultants became more informed about VRT significant differences were seen with regard to attitudes regarding the role of VR in skills in surgical training (p<0.05) and in the ability to define teaching objectives (p<0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Our survey suggests that the underuse of the current offerings is not due to a perceived lack of interest on the part of the surgical trainers. Suppliers of these programmes have a responsibility to adequately educate and collaborate with all parties involved to improve overall benefit from these simulators.