Virtual reality training and assessment in laparoscopic rectum surgery.
BACKGROUND
Virtual-reality (VR) based simulation techniques offer an efficient and low cost alternative to conventional surgery training. This article describes a VR training and assessment system in laparoscopic rectum surgery.


METHODS
To give a realistic visual performance of interaction between membrane tissue and surgery tools, a generalized cylinder based collision detection and a multi-layer mass-spring model are presented. A dynamic assessment model is also designed for hierarchy training evaluation.


RESULTS
With this simulator, trainees can operate on the virtual rectum with both visual and haptic sensation feedback simultaneously. The system also offers surgeons instructions in real time when improper manipulation happens. The simulator has been tested and evaluated by ten subjects.


CONCLUSIONS
This prototype system has been verified by colorectal surgeons through a pilot study. They believe the visual performance and the tactile feedback are realistic. It exhibits the potential to effectively improve the surgical skills of trainee surgeons and significantly shorten their learning curve.
State Key Laboratory of Virtual Reality Technology and Systems, Beihang University, Beijing, China.
Jun J
JJ
Pan
National Centre for Computer Animation, Media School, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK.
Jian
J
Chang
National Centre for Computer Animation, Media School, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK.
Xiaosong
X
Yang
School of Animation, Communication University of China, Beijing, China.
Hui
H
Liang
National Centre for Computer Animation, Media School, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK.
Jian J
JJ
Zhang
Poole Hospital, Poole, UK.
Tahseen
T
Qureshi
The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals, Bournemouth, UK.
Robert
R
Howell
The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals, Bournemouth, UK.
Tamas
T
Hickish
D003198:Computer Simulation; D013505:Digestive System Surgical Procedures / Q000193:education / Q000379:methods*; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000193:education / Q000379:methods*; D059032:Learning Curve; D008953:Models, Anatomic; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012007:Rectum / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000601:surgery*; D014584:User-Computer Interface
collision detection; dissection simulation; dynamic assessment; evaluation; laparoscopic rectum surgery