Design and evaluation of a virtual reality simulation module for training advanced temporal bone surgery

Surgical education has traditionally relied on cadaveric dissection and supervised training in the operating theatre. However, both these forms of training have become inefficient due to issues such as scarcity of cadavers and competing priorities taking up surgeons time. Within this context, computer-based simulations such as virtual reality have gained popularity as supplemental modes of training. Virtual reality simulation offers repeated practice in a risk-free environment where standardised surgical training modules can be developed, along with systems to provide automated guidance and assessment. In this paper, we discuss the design and evaluation of such a training module, specifically aimed at training an advanced temporal bone procedure, namely cochlear implant surgery.