Faculty of Dentistry, Thammasat University, Thailand.
J Endod. 2010 Jan;36(1):53-5. doi: 10.1016/j.joen.2009.09.020.
Haptic virtual reality (VR) has revolutionized the skill acquisition in dentistry. The strength of the haptic VR system is that it can automatically record the outcome and associated kinematic data on how each step of the task is performed, which are not available in the conventional skill training environments. The aim of this study was to assess skill acquisition in endodontics and to identify process and outcome variables for the quantification of proficiency.
Twenty novices engaged in the experimental study that involved practicing the access opening task with the haptic VR system. Process (speed, force utilization, and bimanual coordination) and outcome variables were determined for assessing skill performance. These values were compared before and after training.
Significant improvements were observed through training in all variables. A unique force used pattern and bimanual coordination were observed in each step of the access opening in the posttraining session. The novices also performed the tasks considerably faster with greater outcome within the first two to three training sessions.
The study objectively showed that the novices could learn to perform access opening tasks faster and with more consistency, better bimanual dexterity, and better force utilization. The variables examined showed great promise as objective indicators of proficiency and skill acquisition in haptic VR.
触觉虚拟现实（VR）彻底改变了牙科的技能习得方式。触觉 VR 系统的优势在于，它可以自动记录任务的每个步骤的执行情况以及相关运动学数据，而这在传统技能培训环境中是无法获得的。本研究旨在评估牙髓学中的技能习得，并确定用于量化熟练度的过程和结果变量。
20 名新手参与了这项实验研究，他们使用触觉 VR 系统练习开髓洞任务。过程（速度、力的利用和双手协调）和结果变量用于评估技能表现，这些值在训练前后进行比较。
在训练过程中，所有变量都有显著提高。在培训后的阶段，在开髓洞的每一步中都观察到了独特的力利用模式和双手协调。新手在前两到三个训练课程中也能够更快地完成任务，并且能够更快地获得更好的结果。
该研究客观地表明，新手可以更快地学习并更一致地执行开髓洞任务，双手协调性更好，力的利用也更好。所检查的变量作为触觉 VR 中的熟练度和技能习得的客观指标显示出巨大的潜力。
