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A virtual-reality subtotal tonsillectomy simulator

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  15 March 2012

G S Ruthenbeck ,
S B Tan ,
A S Carney ,
J C Hobson  and
K J Reynolds
G S Ruthenbeck
Affiliation:
School of Computer Science, Engineering and Mathematics, Flinders University, South Australia, Australia
S B Tan
Affiliation:
Flinders ENT, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
A S Carney*
Affiliation:
Flinders ENT, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, Flinders University, South Australia, Australia
J C Hobson
Affiliation:
Flinders ENT, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
K J Reynolds
Affiliation:
School of Computer Science, Engineering and Mathematics, Flinders University, South Australia, Australia
*
Address for correspondence: Prof A Simon Carney, Flinders ENT, Flinders Private Hospital, Suite 200, Bedford Park, SA 5042Australia Fax: +61 8 82770288 E-mail: [email protected]
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Abstract

Objectives:

To develop a virtual-reality subtotal tonsillectomy simulation for surgical training.

Materials and Methods:

Computer models of a male patient's head and throat, and the surgical instrument, were created. These models were combined with custom-built simulation software. Recently developed tissue simulation technology that exploits recent developments in programmable graphics processing units was used to model tonsillar tissue in a way that allows surgical interaction whilst providing accurate tactile feedback. Current real-time rendering techniques were used to provide realistic visuals. Iterative refinements were made to the simulation, and in particular the tissue simulation, in consultation with relevantly experienced surgeons.

Results:

We have used newly developed tissue simulation technology to developed a novel virtual-reality subtotal tonsillectomy simulation for surgical training, the first of its kind.

Conclusion:

Early feedback suggests that this simulator can help surgeons to rapidly acquire subtotal tonsillectomy surgical skills in a risk-free and realistic virtual environment.

Keywords

Computer SimulationTonsillectomyTactile
Type
Main Article
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 126 , Supplement S2 , July 2012 , pp. S8 - S13
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2012

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Footnotes

Presented at Frontiers 2010 – the Art, Science and Future of Otorhinolaryngology, 28 July 2010, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, and at the 14th ASEAN ORL Head and Neck Congress 2011, 12 May 2011, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia

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