RetinaVR: Democratizing Vitreoretinal Surgery Training with a Portable and Affordable Virtual Reality Simulator in the Metaverse

Abstract

We developed and validated RetinaVR, an affordable and immersive virtual reality simulator for vitreoretinal surgery training, using the Meta Quest 2 VR headset. We focused on four core fundamental skills: core vitrectomy, peripheral shaving, membrane peeling, and endolaser application. The validation study involved 10 novice ophthalmology residents and 10 expert vitreoretinal surgeons. We demonstrated construct validity, as shown by the varying user performance in a way that correlates with experimental runs, age, sex, and expertise. RetinaVR shows promise as a portable and affordable simulator, with potential to democratize surgical simulation access, especially in developing countries.