JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

In recent years Virtual reality (VR) has gained significant importance in medical education. Radiology education also has seen the induction of VR technology. However, there is no comprehensive review in this specific area. the present review aims to fill this gap in knowledge.

Objective:

This systematic literature review aims to explore the scope of virtual reality (VR) use in radiology education.

Methods:

A literature search was done on PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar for articles published since database inception up to 1st September 2023. The identified articles were then subjected to a PRISMA-defined study selection process.

Results:

The database search identified 2503 non-duplicate articles and 17 were included in the review for analysis. Three studies were randomized clinical trials (RCTs), 7 randomized experimental trials, and 7 cross-sectional studies. Three of the randomized trials had a low risk of bias, 5 showed some concerns and 2 had a high risk of bias. Among the cross-sectional studies, 2 of them scored ‘good’ in overall quality and the remaining 5 scored ‘fair. VR was found to be significantly more effective than traditional methods of teaching in improving the radiography and radiologic skills of students. The use of VR systems was found to improve the student’s skills in overall proficiency, patient positioning, equipment knowledge, equipment handling, and radiographic techniques. Student feedback was also reported among the included studies. The students generally provided positive feedback about the utility, ease of use, and satisfaction of VR systems, as well as their perceived positive impact on skill and knowledge acquisition.

Conclusions:

The evidence from this review shows the significant benefit that VR use has for students in radiology education courses. This review thus supports the integration of VR into radiology education to improve how students in this field acquire essential clinical skills.