VR simulator training reduces minor cortical breaches (Grade II placements) in pedicle screw insertion¶

Claim · All claims
Evidence · 1 study · quant-synthesis r2 · q3
Currency · newest study 2026 · not yet checked against its sources · not reviewed by a person

Subclaims¶

q3 i? VR training was associated with significantly lower rates of Grade II (minor breach) placements than traditional training. → Pasqualotto Eric 2026

Evidence¶

Pasqualotto Eric 2026¶

Pasqualotto Eric, Pasqualotto Tales, Lopes Victor Hugo Pinheiro, Lunelli Laura, Santos Lucas Loiola. (2026). Virtual reality surgical simulator training of residents and early-career surgeons for pedicle screw placement: a systematic review and meta-analysis. European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-026-05008-1

q3 · i? · quant-synthesis · r2

Pooled random-effects analysis of six RCTs found significantly lower Grade II (minor cortical breach) rates in the VR group: "RR 0.61; 95% CI 0.45 to 0.85; p < 0.01; I2 = 0%". GRADE rated this outcome low-certainty.

"VR training was associated with significantly lower rates of Grade II (RR 0.61; 95% CI 0.45 to 0.85; p < 0.01; I2 = 0%)"

Discussion¶

Related Claims¶

• VR simulator training yields a higher rate of optimal (Grade I) pedicle screw placement than traditional training among residents and early-career surgeons — related
• VR simulator training improves overall pedicle screw placement success relative to traditional training — related
• VR-trained trainees show shorter screw penetration distances and fewer displaced screws per resident — related
• Simulation Based Education Improves Outcomes — a broader claim this one bears on
• VR simulation training improves orthopaedic trainees' technical proficiency and shortens operative times — a broader claim this one bears on
• In thyroid surgery training, simulation and virtual-reality training improved technical performance and task completion time, and simulators were rated as realistic — related