Virtual reality simulation in training endoscopic skills: A systematic review

Abstract

Objective

Training young physicians in gastrointestinal endoscopy through virtual reality (VR) simulators has become popular. It is important to evaluate the benefits and usefulness of this technology for teaching endoscopic skills. The objective of this literature review is to understand the benefits of VR technology through quantitative and qualitative examination of learning outcomes.

Methods

A literature search of 7 databases was conducted. Studies which compared the effects of learning through VR simulation and another method of learning were included. In addition, studies were included if they evaluated learning outcomes on clinical patients. Participants could be medical residents, fellows, physicians, or nurses. Common outcomes measured across studies included subjective overall performance scores, total procedure times, rate of successful procedure completion, error rates, patient pain or discomfort, and measures of independence.

Results

A total of 22 studies were included. Overall, VR simulation training was seen to be comparable or significantly better than clinical training, no training, other types of simulation, and another form of VR training. Many authors reported increasing patient safety, reducing stress and time constraints, and shortening the learning curve as advantages of VR simulation training. However, this form of training is also expensive and may result in the learning of bad habits.

Conclusion

VR simulation technology can be a valuable form of educating endoscopy novices if properly supervised during training, and if there is also integration of clinical training.