Innovating neurosurgical training: a comprehensive evaluation of a 3D-printed intraventricular neuroendoscopy simulator and systematic review of the literature.

Objective: The objective of this study was to develop and evaluate a low-cost 3D-printed simulator to improve the ability of neurosurgical residents to handle and coordinate endoscopes in performing technically demanding procedures such as neuroendoscopic removal of ventricular tumors or endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV).

Methods: The simulator was developed, printed in-house, and evaluated in a trial involving neurosurgery residents who performed ETV and intraventricular tumor resection tasks using it. Participants completed a questionnaire that assessed various aspects of the simulator's effectiveness, including anatomical visualization, procedural understanding, competency enhancement, and subjective impressions.

Virtual reality for patient informed consent in skull base tumors and intracranial vascular pathologies: A pilot study.

Purpose: With the growing demand for shared decision-making and patient-centered care, optimal informed consent (IC) has gained relevance. Virtual reality (VR) has seen significant technological advancements, and its medical applications currently include surgical planning and medical education. This pilot study investigates the feasibility of VR-enhanced informed consent (VR-IC) in neurosurgery to improve preoperative IC and patient satisfaction.

Assessment of Interrater Reliability and Accuracy of Cerebral Aneurysm Morphometry Using 3D Virtual Reality, 2D Digital Subtraction Angiography, and 3D Reconstruction: A Randomized Comparative Study.

Background/objectives: Detailed morphometric analysis of an aneurysm and the related vascular bifurcation are critical factors when determining rupture risk and planning treatment for unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs). The standard visualization of digital subtraction angiography (DSA) and its 3D reconstruction on a 2D monitor provide precise measurements but are subject to variability based on the rater. Visualization using virtual (VR) and augmented reality platforms can overcome those limitations.

Enhancing educational experience through establishing a VR database in craniosynostosis: report from a single institute and systematic literature review.

Background: Craniosynostosis is a type of skull deformity caused by premature ossification of cranial sutures in children. Given its variability and anatomical complexity, three-dimensional visualization is crucial for effective teaching and understanding. We developed a VR database with 3D models to depict these deformities and evaluated its impact on teaching efficiency, motivation, and memorability.

Long-term tumor control in Koos grade IV vestibular schwannomas without the need for gross-total resection.

Objective: The modern management of patients with Koos grade IV vestibular schwannomas (VSs) aims at functional preservation and long-term tumor control. Gross-total resection (GTR) leads to optimal tumor control but frequently also results in permanent facial nerve (FN) palsy. Subtotal resection (STR) or near-total resection (NTR) followed by a wait-and-scan protocol and second-line radiation therapy (RT) in case of progressive residuals yields excellent tumor control rates with less permanent morbidity.