Extended Reality in Neurosurgical Education: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Surgical simulation practices have witnessed a rapid expansion as an invaluable approach to resident training in recent years. One emerging way of implementing simulation is the adoption of extended reality (XR) technologies, which enable trainees to hone their skills by allowing interaction with virtual 3D objects placed in either real-world imagery or virtual environments. The goal of the present systematic review is to survey and broach the topic of XR in neurosurgery, with a focus on education. Five databases were investigated, leading to the inclusion of 31 studies after a thorough reviewing process. Focusing on user performance (UP) and user experience (UX), the body of evidence provided by these 31 studies showed that this technology has, in fact, the potential of enhancing neurosurgical education through the use of a wide array of both objective and subjective metrics. Recent research on the topic has so far produced solid results, particularly showing improvements in young residents, compared to other groups and over time. In conclusion, this review not only aids to a better understanding of the use of XR in neurosurgical education, but also highlights the areas where further research is entailed while also providing valuable insight into future applications.

Keywords: augmented reality; education; extended reality; mixed reality; neurosurgery; procedural knowledge; residents; simulation; virtual reality.

Figure 1

Reality–virtuality continuum. Spectrum of physical and extended reality, with virtual reality at one end and the real world at the other.

Figure 2

Study selection (PRISMA) flow chart. Summary of the selection process applied in the present review, divided into identification, screening, and inclusion phases.