407 Improving Access to ENT Surgical Education for Women via Remote Synchronised vr Training by the VRiMS Women in Surgery Group

Résumé fourni par la source

Abstract Aim To evaluate whether remote synchronised Virtual Reality (VR) workshops can broaden access to ENT surgical training, especially thyroidectomy, by exposing women to varied surgical planning and operative approaches not typically accessible through traditional training. Method A female ENT surgeon led a remote synchronised VR workshop simulating a 360° cadaveric thyroidectomy, accompanied by real-time 3D anatomical exploration. 11 female medical students from five UK regions participated, completing paired pre- and post-session surveys assessing understanding of the procedure, anatomical confidence, and perceptions of inclusivity in ENT. Quantitative improvement was measured with 5-point Likert scales and analysed using paired t-tests. Qualitative feedback underwent thematic analysis to assess participant engagement and perceived educational value. Results Post-session surveys demonstrated an increase in participants’ understanding of the thyroidectomy procedure from 1.82 ± 0.83 to 4.45 ± 0.66 (p < 0.001). The neck anatomical confidence from 2.18 ± 0.83 to 4.64 ± 0.64 (p < 0.001). Relevance of VR in ENT education and accessibility through remote synchronised training was rated extremely highly (mean = 4.8). Qualitative data highlighted increased procedural confidence, enthusiasm for ENT, and appreciation for exposure to multiple surgical planning approaches beyond any single consultant’s technique. Conclusions Synchronised VR thyroidectomy training is a practical, high-fidelity strategy to democratise ENT surgical education. Remote, immersive workshops empower women with access to diverse operative techniques and nuanced surgical planning, improving confidence and engagement across geographically dispersed learners.

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