Characterizing the untapped potential of virtual reality in plastic and reconstructive surgical training: A systematic review on skill transferability

Abstract

Virtual reality (VR) integration into surgical education has gained immense traction by invigorating skill-building in ways that are unlike the traditional modes of training. This systematic review unites current literature relevant to VR in surgical education to showcase tool transferability, and subsequent impact on knowledge acquisition, skill development, and technological innovation. This review followed the PRISMA guidelines and included three databases. Among the 1926 studies that were screened, 31 studies met the inclusion criteria. ChatGPT assisted in generating variables for data extraction, and the authors reached unanimous consensus on 13 variables that provided a framework for assessing VR attributes. Surgical simulation was examined in 26 studies (83.9%). VR applications incorporated anatomy visualization (83.9%), procedure planning (67.7%), skills assessment (64.5%), continuous learning (41.9%), haptic feedback (41.9%), research and innovation (41.9%), case-based learning (22.6%), improved skill retention (19.4%), reduction of stress and anxiety (16.1%), and remote learning (12.9%). No instances of VR integration addressed patient communication or team-based training. Novice surgeons benefited the most from VR simulator experience, improving their confidence and accuracy in tackling complex procedural tasks, as well as decision-making efficiency. Enhanced dexterity compared to traditional modes of surgical training was also notable. VR confers significant potential as an adjunctive teaching method in plastic and reconstructive surgery (PRS). Studies demonstrate the utility of virtual simulation in knowledge acquisition and skill development, though they lack targeted approaches for augmenting training related to collaboration and patient communication. Given the underrepresentation of PRS among surgical disciplines regarding VR implementation in surgical education, longitudinal curriculum integration and PRS-specific technologies should be further investigated.

Keywords: Education; Immersive; Plastic surgery; Residency; Surgical training; Virtual reality.

Figure 1

PRISMA diagram.

Figure 2

Study density timeline showing the number of included studies published per fiscal year between 1999 and 2023.

Figure 3

Representation of AI-generated virtual reality variables within the pool of included studies for review. Authors designated studies as yes, no, or unclear, based on the contextual information provided in each study concerning the implementation of the respective virtual reality model.