Virtual pelvic anatomy and surgery simulator: An innovative tool for teaching pelvic surgical anatomy

Stefan D. Holubar, James P. Hassinger, Eric J. Dozois, Jon C. Camp, David R. Farley, Jeff L. Fidler, Wojciech Pawlina, Richard A. Robb

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

18 Scopus citations

Abstract

Pelvic three-dimensional (3-D) anatomy is complex and can be difficult to visualize. We have developed an alpha-version virtual anatomic model that will facilitate a) student learning of anatomy b) resident preparedness for operation, c) surgical planning for complex, multidisciplinary procedures. This educational module is composed of the virtual anorectum, an anatomically accurate, interactive model of the anorectum and pelvic viscera based on co-registered human computed tomographic (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) images. It also consists of a physical model fabricated from the same data-set using stereolithography. Usability and functionality was assessed in a sample of surgical trainees. Feedback demonstrated that the module is an efficient adjunct to medical education and surgical planning. Ultimately, we envision a deformable virtual model that allows residents and surgeons to rehearse complex surgical procedures by performing virtual surgery, thereby improving preparedness for real operations. Such a model will be integrated into a colorectal surgery educational curriculum, and in the future may represent a unique method of competency testing.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationMedicine Meets Virtual Reality 17 - NextMed
Subtitle of host publicationDesign for/the Well Being
PublisherIOS Press
Pages122-124
Number of pages3
ISBN (Print)9781586039646
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2009
Event17th Annual MMVR Conference - NextMed: Design for/the Well Being, MMVR17 2009 - Long Beach, CA, United States
Duration: Jan 19 2009Jan 22 2009

Publication series

NameStudies in Health Technology and Informatics
Volume142
ISSN (Print)0926-9630
ISSN (Electronic)1879-8365

Other

Other17th Annual MMVR Conference - NextMed: Design for/the Well Being, MMVR17 2009
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityLong Beach, CA
Period1/19/091/22/09

Keywords

  • Pelvis
  • Simulation
  • Surgery
  • Virtual anatomy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Health Informatics
  • Health Information Management

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