Development and validation of a virtual reality transrectal ultrasound guided prostatic biopsy simulator

Abstract

Objective: We present the design, reliability, face, content andconstruct validity testing of a virtual reality simulator for transrectalultrasound (TRUS), which allows doctors-in-training to performmultiple different biopsy schemes.Methods: This biopsy system design uses a regular “end-firing”TRUS probe. Movements of the probe are tracked with a micromagneticsensor to dynamically slice through a phantom patient’s3D prostate volume to provide real-time continuous TRUS views.3D TRUS scans during prostate biopsy clinics were recorded.Intrinsic reliability was assessed by comparing the left side of theprostate to the right side of the prostate for each biopsy. A contentand face validity questionnaire was administered to 26 doctors toassess the simulator. Construct validity was assessed by comparingnotes from experts and novices with regards to the time taken andthe accuracy of each biopsy.Results: Imaging data from 50 patients were integrated into thesimulator. The completed VR TRUS simulator uses real patientimages, and is able to provide simulation for 50 cases, with ahaptic interface that uses a standard TRUS probe and biopsy needle.Intrinsic reliability was successfully demonstrated by comparingresults from the left and right sides of the prostate. Face andcontent validity respondents noted the realism of the simulator,and its appropriateness as a teaching model. The simulator wasable to distinguish between experts and novices during constructvalidity testing.Conclusions: A virtual reality TRUS simulator has successfully beencreated. It has promising face, content and construct validity results.

Development and validation of a virtual reality transrectal ultrasound guided prostatic biopsy simulator

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