Examining the learning effects of a low-cost haptic-based virtual reality simulator on laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Virtual reality (VR) surgical training can be a potentially useful method for improving practicing surgical skills. However, the current literature on VR training has not discussed the efficacy of VR systems that are useful outside of the training facility. As such, the goal of this study is to evaluate the benefits of using a low-cost VR simulation system for providing a method to increase the learning of surgical skills. Our pilot case focuses on laparoscopic cholecystectomy, which is one of the most common surgeries currently performed in the United States and is often used as the training case for laparoscopy due to its high frequency and perceived low risk. The specific aim of this study is to examine the efficacy of a low-cost haptic-based VR surgical simulator on improving practicing surgical skills, measured by the change in the learning effect of students.