Collaborative virtual environments for orthopedic surgery

Virtual reality simulators can be beneficial in increasing the quality of training while decreasing the time needed for training a specific skill. These simulators can provide a risk free environment which has the benefit of repetition and correction of the user´s error. It has been years since the introduction of these simulators into the medical applications. The application of VR in orthopedic surgery, however, is a relatively new area of interest. In this paper, collaborative virtual reality based environments with the application in orthopedic surgery, with a focus on LISS (Less Invasive Stabilization System) plating, is presented. They can be used for training medical residents in orthopedic surgery.