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Virtual Surgery

No one wants to be the first patient operated on by a surgeon. This never happens. Doctors-in-training learn their surgery skills first on plastic teaching models and cadavers (human bodies preserved for study). Then they watch expert doctors. The final step is practicing with a teaching surgeon.

Today's technology has added a new step in this learning process. Enter the computer simulator. The simulator used in this study is a computer and video with a model of the shoulder. The software program makes it possible for the doctors to "touch" parts of the shoulder. With computers, doctors train for surgery without making devastating mistakes. It also saves money in time and supplies by not using an operating room.

Airline pilots have practiced with computer simulation for years. The medical world has been slow to use this kind of technology. Having three-dimensional (3-D) views has changed this for doctors, as they are now able to practice arthroscopic surgery as if on a real body.

Computer technology gives the doctor immediate feedback. For example, if the doctor bumps the virtual joint surface or pulls on a virtual tendon, the camera and probe let the doctor know. The software for this program allows for constant change of the camera image and position. It also allows the doctor to view the patient's correct size and position.

There is some merit that young people using computer games today could make better surgeons tomorrow. The skills used to play computer games will be helpful in the future. These same hand motions may later be used while practicing and performing operations.

References: Robert A. Pedowitz, MD, PhD, et al. Evaluation of a Virtual Reality Simulator for Arthroscopy Skills Development. In Arthroscopy. July/August 2002. Vol. 18. No. 6. Pp. E29-E35.

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