How a Vancouver company is taking the future of surgical training virtual

The technology offers students immediate audio-tactile feedback on their surgeries

A Vancouver-based company is using virtual reality to teach a new generation of orthopedic surgeons in North America.

Six medical programs around North America — including at the University of British Columbia — will soon add the technology, called Precision OS, to their in-class studies.

“Some of the younger students, some of them have never used a drill before going in,” says Roberto Oliveira, one of the founders of Precision OS,  who believes virtual reality is a way to bridge the gap between theory and real surgery.

“Anything we can do to prepare them and get them as close to the real things as possible.”

The virtual reality technology puts trainees inside the operating room. A headset and handheld sensors use audio and visuals to simulate the environment. When a student reaches for a tool, they can see a computer-generated version of their hand reaching for the tool in a 360-degree world.

The software includes different modules that allow students to make decisions — and mistakes — and learn from them, eventually improving their skills through repetition.

In the hands of the students

At UBC’s medical school, students have already had the chance to get their hands virtually dirty.

Orthopedic surgery resident Ryan Lohre says VR helps him actively participate in what he is learning.

“I get to interact with the patient and I get to actually use the instrumentation, which are very realistic compared to what I’m going to be actually using in the operating room,” says Lohre.

By CBC

Image Credit: Precision OS

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About Peter Coffaro 506 Articles
Peter Coffaro is a growth-driven and strategic executive with over 25 years of progressive management success in the medical device industry. With a proven track record and recognized expertise, Peter has established himself as one of the top influencers in medical sales, as acknowledged by prestigious publications such as the World Journal of Orthopedics, Exponential Healthtech, and MedReps.com. Throughout his career, Peter has accumulated 10 years of combined sales management experience, excelling in various roles including Director, General Manager, Distributor, and Vice President. He has worked for industry-leading orthopedic companies such as Zimmer, DePuy, and Stryker, solidifying his deep knowledge and network within the field. Peter’s passion for innovation and emerging technologies led him to found OrthoFeed, an award-winning blog covering digital orthopedic news and emerging medical technologies. Through this platform, he stays at the forefront of the industry and contributes to the dissemination of valuable insights. Peter is a three-time Hall of Fame award winner at Johnson and Johnson, demonstrating his exceptional contributions and impact on the organization. His expertise extends to areas such as organizational development, business development, sales management, digital marketing, and professional education. Peter earned a B.S. degree in Biology and Chemistry from Northern Illinois University, further complementing his comprehensive understanding of the medical field. With his wealth of experience, strategic mindset, and dedication to advancing healthcare, Peter Coffaro is a valuable asset and leader in the medical device industry.

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