Quantitative metrics for evaluating surgical dexterity using virtual reality simulations

Wu, Mingyu ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0005-7798-5316, Kit, Cham Ying, Su, Eileen Lee Ming ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9366-5404, Yeong, Che Fai, Ahmmad, Siti Nor Zawani, Holderbaum, William ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1677-9624 and Yang, Chenguang (2025) Quantitative metrics for evaluating surgical dexterity using virtual reality simulations. PLoS ONE, 20 (3). e0318660. ISSN 1932-6203

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Abstract

This study develops and evaluates quantitative metrics to assess surgical dexterity within virtual reality (VR) simulations to enhance surgical training and performance. By employing advanced VR technology, this research systematically investigates the influence of controlled experimental factors—posture, handedness, and visual magnification—on surgical performance. The impact of human factors such as surgical specialty, experience, and lifestyle factors like sleep and caffeine consumption on surgical dexterity is also analyzed. The findings reveal that seated posture, dominant hand usage, and enhanced visual magnification significantly improve surgical precision and efficiency. Contrary to common beliefs, lifestyle factors such as sleep duration and coffee consumption showed minimal impact on performance metrics. The study highlights the potential of VR simulations to provide a controlled, replicable, and safe environment for surgical training, emphasizing the importance of personalized training protocols that cater to individual surgeon’s needs. The insights from this research advocate for integrating quantitative, objective metrics in surgical training programs to refine and accelerate dexterity acquisition, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes and surgical care.