Comparisons of orthodontic residents’ performance and attitudes using 2D, 3D, and virtual reality surgical simulation methods

Abstract

Purpose Advances in virtual reality technology for surgical simulation methods may improve diagnosis and treatment planning of complex orthognathic surgery cases. The objectives were to assess orthodontic residents’ performance and attitudes when treatment planning orthognathic surgery cases using two‐dimensional (2D) digital, three‐dimensional (3D) digital, and virtual reality (VR) surgical simulations. Methods The study had a mixed methods study design involving 20 graduate orthodontic residents. Their previous experiences, confidence, and competence with orthodontic diagnosis and surgical treatment planning were assessed with a baseline survey. Each resident completed 2D, 3D, and VR treatment planning and simulation tasks in a randomized order and recorded their diagnosis, objectives, treatment plan, and special surgical concerns for each case using a treatment planning worksheet. The worksheets were scored and quantitative data were analyzed. Attitudinal responses to the simulation experience were captured with a post‐survey and interview. Results The number of total prescribed surgical movements was greater for 3D and VR simulation methods (p = 0.001). There were no differences in the overall total written treatment plan analysis score among the three surgical simulation tasks. Participants took longer to complete the VR and 3D tasks (p < 0.001) and asked more questions regarding manipulation (p < 0.001) and software features (p < 0.002) for higher fidelity tools. Analysis of qualitative feedback showed positive attitudes toward higher fidelity tools with regard to visualization, manipulation, and enjoyment of the task. Conclusions The results demonstrate that simulation methods of increased fidelity (3D and VR) are appropriate alternatives to 2D conventional orthognathic surgical simulation methods when combined with traditional records. Qualitative feedback confirms residents’ readiness to adopt VR simulation. However, comprehensive training is needed to increase familiarity and comfort with using the new technology.

Application evaluation of virtual reality technology in dental implant training: a new dental implant training system

“…A previous study has assessed orthodontic residents’ performance and attitudes when treatment planning orthognathic surgery cases using 2D digital, 3D digital, and VR surgical simulations and demonstrate that simulation methods of increased fidelity (3D and VR) are appropriate alternatives to 2D conventional orthognathic surgical simulation methods when combined with traditional records, [15] which was in accordance with our results. Another study on education during surgical procedures and related clinical anatomy in a VR workspace showed that use of VR technology with a live communication tool could be an alternative teaching method and its overall advantages are a closer look at the slides/monitor and concurrent observation of the multiple assets in various directions by multiple attendees [16] …”

The Forefront of Dentistry—Promising Tech-Innovations and New Treatments

“…For example, data from brain imaging of patients during pain can be visualized by students in virtual reality to have a more immersive educational experience (DaSilva et al 2014). The same applies with orthognathic surgical simulation methods when combined with traditional records, showing positive attitudes from the students toward higher-fidelity tools concerning visualization, manipulation, and enjoyment of the task (Sytek et al 2021). When applied directly in the clinic, the best mixed reality technologies are the ones that do not interfere with the dentist-patient communication and improve our ability to assess patients' conditions with more precision.…”

Student learning of head and neck anatomy using cone beam computed tomography and immersive virtual reality

“…[16][17][18][19][20][21][22] In dental education, immersive VR has been shown to be as effective as conventional learning methods which can improve student performance in orthognathic surgical prediction and delivery of injections with increase in learner satisfaction. [23][24][25][26][27][28][29][30] Additionally, there may be added bene-fits for student learning of anatomy and 3D imaging and radiology concepts by combining head and neck anatomy, CBCT images and immersive VR technology to improve the educational experience and knowledge retention for dental students. When Radianti et al conducted a systematic review regarding usage of VR in higher education, they found that evaluation of VR applications has primarily focused on usability of the VR applications instead of learning outcomes.…”

“…In dental education, immersive VR has been shown to be as effective as conventional learning methods which can improve student performance in orthognathic surgical prediction and delivery of injections with increase in learner satisfaction 23–30 . Additionally, there may be added benefits for student learning of anatomy and 3D imaging and radiology concepts by combining head and neck anatomy, CBCT images and immersive VR technology to improve the educational experience and knowledge retention for dental students.…”