The University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Neurosurgery enhances neurosurgical resident education and training using virtual reality (VR).

Virtual reality refers to computer-generated 3D environments. Virtual reality technologies provide immense possibilities in multiple areas of neurosurgery by supplementing and augmenting traditional training methods. Virtual simulations use a variety of immersive, highly visual, 3D characteristics to replicate real-life situations.
 
UAB Department of Neurosurgery Assistant Professor Jakub Godzik, M.D., M.S., spearheaded the launch of a VR teaching program in the UAB Neurosurgery Residency Program utilizing virtual space to safely train resident surgeons. 
 
Residents and faculty use a computer keyboard, a mouse, speech and voice recognition, motion sensors and haptic devices to simulate neurosurgery during weekly VR sessions. 
 
Training with VR allows resident surgeons to gain increased practice and comfort with complex procedures requiring high levels of dexterity and planning. 
 
“This tool allows us to really understand what we will see in surgery, rehearse the surgery beforehand, and identify problem areas. In addition, it’s a great way to help train our residents and get all members of the team on the same page. We expect the use of virtual reality to expand into other specialties and even among patients," says Godzik.
 
From education and training to the operating room, the use of VR in neurosurgery provides tangible benefits that significantly enhance preoperative planning, patient care and efficiency in the operating room.