Can the use of Augmented Reality Telecommunication Glasses Improve Orthopedic Surgery Residents’ Efficiency in Performing Arthroscopic Shoulder Portal Placements? A Cadaveric Model Simulation

Background As surgical education continues to evolve, augmented reality (AR) and simulation-based training have emerged as valuable tools for improving procedural proficiency and overall technical acumen among orthopedic residents. Despite these advances, a gap remains in effectively translating these simulated skills to the operating room. This dilemma is particularly seen in shoulder arthroscopy, where precise portal placement is critical for safe and successful outcomes. Enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of portal placement through innovative, real-time feedback tools may help bridge this gap. Purpose This study evaluated whether AR-assisted telecommunication using the OpticSurg Vision Beyond™ system could improve orthopedic surgery residents’ efficiency in performing arthroscopic shoulder portal placements in a cadaveric model. Methods Ten orthopedic surgery residents (PGY2–PGY5) participated in this study. Each resident was timed on the placement of four standard shoulder arthroscopy portals—anterior high, anterior low, Wilmington, and Nevaiser—with and without AR assistance from an attending physician. The AR system enabled real-time audiovisual communication and field-of-view annotation via smart glasses. Results Across all portal types, residents completed placements significantly faster with AR assistance. Anterior high portal placement averaged 73 seconds with AR versus 152 seconds without (F(1,8)=24.70, p=.001). Similar statistically significant improvements were seen for the anterior low, Wilmington, and Nevaiser portals. Senior residents (PGY4–5) outperformed junior residents (PGY2–3) overall, with faster placement times regardless of AR use, though AR assistance further enhanced their performance compared to junior peers. Conclusion AR-assisted telecommunication significantly improved the efficiency of shoulder arthroscopic portal placement among orthopedic residents, suggesting that AR platforms may serve as valuable adjuncts in surgical training. The benefits were most pronounced among senior residents, highlighting the potential of AR to refine advanced technical skills in a controlled learning environment.