Technology and medicine: the evolution of virtual reality simulation in laparoscopic training.

BACKGROUND

Virtual reality (VR) simulation for laparoscopic surgical training is now a reality. There is increasing evidence that the use of VR simulation is a powerful adjunct to traditional surgical apprenticeship in the current climate of reduced time spent in training.

AIM

This article reviews the early evidence supporting the case for VR simulation training in laparoscopic surgery.

METHODS

A standard literature search was conducted using the following phrases--'virtual reality in surgical training', 'surgical training', 'laparoscopic training' and 'simulation in surgical training'.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

This article outlines the early evidence which supports the use of VR simulation in laparoscopic training and the need for further research into this new training technique.