Mixed-Reality Surgical Simulator for Minimally Invasive Surgery

Abstract

Modern medical practice relies on minimally invasive surgery (MIS), which has revolutionized surgery. Understanding complicated anatomical features and improving hand-eye coordination for instrument-tissue interactions are essential for MIS. However, learning these abilities can be difficult, affecting patient surgery results and surgeon confidence. Advanced simulations like Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR) have increasingly been preferred along with apprenticeship models in surgical training as they provide immersive and interactive environments while being safe and controlled. Furthermore, simulators minimize risks associated with practicing on real patients while learning, and also in terms of accessibility and flexibility. This thesis proposes a mixed reality surgical simulator that blends realistic tactile feedback from box trainers with VR visual correctness to meet modern surgical training needs. The simulator connects actual and virtual events for more complete and effective training. This thesis performs a development and technological evaluation of the mixed reality surgical simulator. This study evaluates the simulation system's capacity to accurately mimic real-life MIS situations and enable realistic tool-tissue interactions to improve surgical education. By systematically analyzing the simulator's functions, the study hopes to demonstrate its benefits and potential to transform surgical training. In conclusion, this research intends to lay the groundwork for a more advanced and efficient surgical training system to improve patient care and surgical practice.