3D holographic reconstruction and intraoperative navigation combined with CBL teaching in laparoscopic partial nephrectomy training for urology residents

Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of integrating 3D digital holographic reconstruction and intraoperative navigation with case-based learning (CBL) in enhancing the educational outcomes of laparoscopic partial nephrectomy training for urology residents. Methods A prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted at the Second People’s Hospital of Hefei from August 2021 to May 2024. A total of 120 urology residents were randomly assigned to either a combined teaching group (3D holography + CBL, n = 60) or a conventional CBL-only group ( n = 60). The experimental group utilized reconstructed CT/MRI DICOM data rendered into interactive holographic models via Microsoft HoloLens 2 for real-time anatomical visualization and intraoperative guidance. Key outcome measures included post-training performance (theoretical and practical scores), self-directed learning ability, teaching satisfaction, critical thinking disposition, and knowledge retention at 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-ups. Results The combined teaching group demonstrated significantly superior outcomes across all measured domains ( P < 0.05). Post-training scores were higher in theoretical knowledge (44.58 ± 2.09 vs. 40.28 ± 2.96), practical skills (44.63 ± 2.69 vs. 40.00 ± 2.64), and total score (89.21 ± 4.33 vs. 80.28 ± 5.55). Additionally, the group showed enhanced self-directed learning (4.38 ± 0.74 vs. 3.07 ± 0.73), higher teaching satisfaction (4.30 ± 0.74 vs. 3.15 ± 0.58), and improved critical thinking, notably in analyticity and cognitive maturity. Longitudinal assessments revealed better knowledge retention at all time points, with 6-month total scores of 76.92 ± 2.25 vs. 60.77 ± 5.97. Conclusions Integrating 3D holographic reconstruction and intraoperative navigation into CBL teaching significantly improves urology residents’ comprehension, critical thinking, surgical preparedness, and long-term knowledge retention during laparoscopic partial nephrectomy training. This multimodal teaching model may serve as a valuable adjunct to traditional residency training frameworks.