Introducing a Virtual Reality Experience in Anatomic Pathology Education.
OBJECTIVE
A proper examination of surgical specimens is fundamental in anatomic pathology (AP) education. However, the resources available to residents may not always be suitable for efficient skill acquisition. We propose a method to enhance AP education by introducing high-definition videos featuring methods for appropriate specimen handling, viewable on two-dimensional (2D) and stereoscopic three-dimensional (3D) platforms.


METHODS
A stereo camera system recorded the gross processing of commonly encountered specimens. Three edited videos, with instructional audio voiceovers, were experienced by nine junior residents in a crossover study to assess the effects of the exposure (2D vs 3D movie views) on self-reported physiologic symptoms. A questionnaire was used to analyze viewer acceptance.


RESULTS
All surveyed residents found the videos beneficial in preparation to examine a new specimen type. Viewer data suggest an improvement in specimen handling confidence and knowledge and enthusiasm toward 3D technology. None of the participants encountered significant motion sickness.


CONCLUSIONS
Our novel method provides the foundation to create a robust teaching library. AP is inherently a visual discipline, and by building on the strengths of traditional teaching methods, our dynamic approach allows viewers to appreciate the procedural actions involved in specimen processing.
From the Department of Pathology, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY. EMadrigalDO@gmail.com.
Emilio
E
Madrigal
From the Department of Pathology, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY.
Shyam
S
Prajapati
From the Department of Pathology, Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY.
Juan C
JC
Hernandez-Prera
D003198:Computer Simulation; D006801:Humans; D007396:Internship and Residency; D010336:Pathology / Q000193:education*; D014584:User-Computer Interface
AP general; Education; Pathology resident; Stereoscopic 3D; VR; Videos; Virtual reality