Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Virtual Reality in the OR


This article shows how virtual reality is being implemented to teach new surgeons. A simulator is being developed to give new surgeons the experience of an operating room with all its stresses and challenges. Therefore, the students will be exposed to this type of situation even before they perform an operation. The simulator aims to prepare new students and give them experience which is so critical for developing an effective method of operational procedure. The simulator trains students to develop effective hand coordination and motor skills. In addition, it tests cognition and the ability to methodically solve certain problems in a variety of clinical situations. The article dictates that it is basically the same method that new pilots use in plane simulators. The NIH is giving a $2.7 million grant to develop the operation room simulator. If this simulator proves to be effective in training new surgeons, then it would be a good investment. Giving budding surgeons more opportunities to experience many and different situations is beneficial for a healthcare community. In medicine, experience is the greatest teacher. The best surgeons are the ones who have experienced many operations. Hopefully, this simulator will aid the new surgeons in this crucial element.

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