Surgical simulation: transforming medical training
Page date: Published 7 Feb 2025; updated 25 Mar 2026. 2 min read.
The article describes surgical simulation as a way for clinicians to practice procedures in controlled settings before working with patients. It covers organic models (animal models and human cadavers) and inorganic options such as manikins, computer-based tools and virtual-reality simulators. The page says VR can provide practice scenarios and immediate feedback, including for laparoscopic, orthopaedic and ophthalmic procedures.
The article lists potential benefits including repeated practice, more consistent training, reduced reliance on cadavers or animals and support for patient safety. These are stated benefits of simulation, not quantitative outcome data from studies in this article. Challenges include simulator costs and keeping systems current; future development is described as aiming for lower-cost, portable tools.
Related links: Health and life science; VR medical training; article on AR and VR in healthcare.