Virtual reality simulation in endovascular surgical training.

BACKGROUND

Shortened trainingtimes duetothe European Working Time Directive (EWTD) and increased public scrutiny of surgical competency have led to a move away from the traditional apprenticeship model of training. Virtual reality (VR) simulation is a fascinating innovation allowing surgeons to develop without the need to practice on real patients and it may be a solution to achieve competency within a shortened training period.

METHOD

A Medline search was performed to identify studies and commentaries on the use of VR simulators in endovascular training.

FINDINGS

Three studies on carotid stenting and four on peripheral vascular angioplasty demonstrate that simulator training is a valid, feasible and acceptable training tool. One randomised study reports that these skills learned on simulators are transferable to the operating room.

CONCLUSION

VR simulators have a role in competency based, structured training of vascular interventionalists and should improve patient safety.