title: A virtual-reality subtotal tonsillectomy simulator.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To develop a virtual-reality subtotal tonsillectomy simulation for surgical training.
  
  
  METHODS
  Computer models of a male patient's head and throat, and the surgical instrument, were created. These models were combined with custom-built simulation software. Recently developed tissue simulation technology that exploits recent developments in programmable graphics processing units was used to model tonsillar tissue in a way that allows surgical interaction whilst providing accurate tactile feedback. Current real-time rendering techniques were used to provide realistic visuals. Iterative refinements were made to the simulation, and in particular the tissue simulation, in consultation with relevantly experienced surgeons.
  
  
  RESULTS
  We have used newly developed tissue simulation technology to developed a novel virtual-reality subtotal tonsillectomy simulation for surgical training, the first of its kind.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Early feedback suggests that this simulator can help surgeons to rapidly acquire subtotal tonsillectomy surgical skills in a risk-free and realistic virtual environment.
authors.affiliation: School of Computer Science, Engineering and Mathematics, Flinders University, South Australia, Australia.
authors.forename: G S
authors.initials: GS
authors.lastname: Ruthenbeck
authors.forename: S B
authors.initials: SB
authors.lastname: Tan
authors.forename: A S
authors.initials: AS
authors.lastname: Carney
authors.forename: J C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Hobson
authors.forename: K J
authors.initials: KJ
authors.lastname: Reynolds
mesh_terms: D003198:Computer Simulation; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D004867:Equipment Design; D005246:Feedback; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010149:Postoperative Pain / Q000517:prevention & control; D014068:Tonsillectomy / Q000193:education* / Q000295:instrumentation; D014110:Touch; D014584:User-Computer Interface