Enhancing Otologic Surgical Training: The Impact of Gamification in Virtual Simulations

Acquiring surgical skills in otology is challenging due to the complex anatomy of the temporal bone and the precision required to navigate delicate structures. Traditional training methods, such as cadaveric dissection, remain the gold standard but face limitations including specimen scarcity, high costs, and biological risks. Alternative approaches like 3D-printed models and virtual simulators have emerged as promising solutions. 3D-printed models, derived from CT scans, offer realistic anatomical representations but require time-intensive and costly processes, with limited evidence supporting their educational effectiveness. Virtual simulators, pioneered in the late 1990s, provide a safe, interactive environment for training and are gaining popularity, especially with advancements in haptic feedback and gamification techniques. This thesis investigates the feasibility and educational value of a virtual temporal bone drilling simulator, enhanced with haptic feedback, and explores how gamification can improve trainee engagement and learning outcomes.