Virtual reality training improves operating room performance: results of a randomized, double-blinded study.

Objective: To demonstrate that virtual reality (VR) training transfers technical skills to the operating room (OR) environment.

Summary Background Data: The use of VR surgical simulation to train skills and reduce error risk in the OR has never been demonstrated in a prospective, randomized, blinded study.

Methods: Sixteen surgical residents (PGY 1-4) had baseline psychomotor abilities assessed, then were randomized to either VR training (MIST VR simulator diathermy task) until expert criterion levels established by experienced laparoscopists were achieved (n = 8), or control non-VR-trained (n = 8).