A simulation system for training telerobotic spine surgery

Spine surgery is a complex operation requiring extensive experience and highly accurate manipulations of instruments. Traditional methods like practice in operating room have major drawbacks such as high risk and rare chance for which virtual reality (VR) and computer technologies can offer solutions. The development and prevalence of the Da Vinci system has greatly helped surgeons and interns, which shortens the steep learning curve of complex surgery procedures. In this paper, a virtual reality simulation system of telerobotic surgery was proposed for training spine surgery. A master-slave control structure similar to the da Vinci system based on haptic devices was completed. Combining 3D display devices and haptic devices, a prototype of a telerobotic surgical simulation system was implemented. With the virtual surgery interface and environment, operators could work in a high immersive simulated tele-surgical environment to develop basic skills needed in telerobotic spine surgery.