Simulation-Based Percutaneous Renal Access Training: Evaluating a Novel 3D Immersive Virtual Reality Platform

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is the gold standard treatment for patients with a large stone burden. There are a variety of methods to teach this important endourologic procedure, including simulation. We evaluated three different PCNL simulation platforms for potential use in teaching and assessing percutaneous renal access skills. Urology residents, fellows, and faculty were recruited to participate in this study, which included completing standardized tasks on three PCNL simulation platforms: a virtual reality (VR) simulator (PercMentor, 3D Systems™), a porcine tissue simulator (Cook™ Medical), and a new 3D immersive VR simulator-Marion K181 (Marion Surgical™). Participants were asked to complete a standardized task-gaining prone percutaneous renal access using a fluoroscopic-guided technique. Participants were asked to rate the simulators, and performance data were recorded for analysis. A total of 18 participants with varying levels of PCNL experience completed the study. The Marion K181 had higher ratings by participants in all domains (realism, tactile feedback, instrument movement, renal anatomy, fidelity of simulation, utility as teaching tool) compared with the PercMentor (