PROJECT
Under the leadership of the three clinical partners Kantonsspital St.Gallen, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois and Balgrist University Hospital, endorsed by the Swiss Surgical Societies, in the PROFICIENCY project novel standardized and proficiency-based surgical training curricula are defined and interfaced to simulation tools. The four implementation partners VirtaMed AG, Microsoft Switzerland, OramaVR SA and Atracsys LLC, develop these innovative training tools in collaboration with ETHZ, University Hospital Balgrist/UZH and ZHAW. These simulation tools are ranging from online virtual reality simulation, augmented box trainers, high-end simulators, to augmented-reality-enabled open surgery and immersive remote operation room participation. The sum of these developments introduces a fully novel, integrative training paradigm, installed and demonstrated on two example surgical modalities, laparoscopy and arthroplasty, while fully generalizable to other interventions. This will set new standards both in Switzerland and abroad.
The chart above shows the summary of the PROFICIENCY project with its three interdependent subprojects that are described in more details below.
In subproject 1 a systematically simulated and modularly created surgical training is developed using AI-driven analysis that is predicting the training pathway of each trainee and expert. This training is integrated in the Learning Experience Platform (LXP) that evolves continuously and simultaneously with the emergence of innovative simulation modalities. Additional to the individual skills and crucial steps of an operation, working with the LXP enables the first time a simulation of complication during operations and its management. This is a unique asset and increases patient safety.
In subproject 2 a comprehensive portfolio of simulation- and proficiency-based training solutions is created to interface with the LXP. This portfolio includes an online simulation solution offering web interface or an off-the-shelf VR headset for cognitive training, a mobile and affordable augmented box trainer for motor skill training and a high-end simulator to train cognitive and motor skills. These training solutions deliver the right simulation modality for the right training objective with the right training content. The solutions are applied to laparoscopy training, with concept studies for arthroscopy.
In subproject 3 the cadaver-and simulation-based training using AR is combined by developing a physical training setup, an AR-based guidance and instruction module as well as a performance assessment module for hip arthroplasty. Additionally, a remote teaching approach for open and endoscopic surgery is created using cutting-edge VR/AR-visualization. These AR-enabled training solutions are interfaced with the LXP targeting an accelerated learning curve of the trainees. Furthermore, a virtual surgery participation solution is set up using a Hololens device and a VR-based solution for the VR visualization. This enables participants to immerse themselves into a virtual OR where the real data is displayed in real-time on the virtual OR table.
*AR Augmented Reality / OR Operation Room / VR Virtual Reality
The contribution of the project partner VirtaMed: Revolutionizing The Way Medical Skills Are Taught.
© Copyright VirtaMed AG.
The contribution of the project partner VirtaMed: Revolutionizing The Way Medical Skills Are Taught.
© Copyright ORamaVR S.A.
The contribution of the project partner Microsoft in cooperation with the Balgrist University Hospital
Successful first-ever holographically navigated spine surgery at Balgrist University Hospital.
© Copyright Microsoft / Balgrist University Hospital