The utility of virtual reality surgical simulation in the undergraduate otorhinolaryngology curriculum

OBJECTIVE: To examine the impact of temporal bone virtual reality surgical simulator use in the undergraduate otorhinolaryngology curriculum. METHODS: Medical students attended a workshop involving the use of a temporal bone virtual reality surgical simulator. Students completed a pre-workshop questionnaire on career interests. A post-workshop questionnaire evaluated the perceived usefulness and enjoyment of the virtual reality surgical simulator experience, and assessed changes in their interest in ENT. RESULTS: Thirty-two fifth-year University of Auckland medical students were recruited. The majority of students (53.1 per cent) had already chosen their career path. The simulator experience was useful for: stimulating thoughts around career plans (71.9 per cent), providing hands-on experience (93.8 per cent) and teaching disease processes (93.8 per cent). After the workshop, 53.1 per cent of students were more interested in a career in ENT. CONCLUSION: Virtual reality may be a fun and engaging way of teaching ENT. Furthermore, it could help guide student career planning.