Virtual Reality Simulators

Virtual environments are derived from medical imaging data and are central to computer-based simulated patients on whom we will safely practice the art of medicine, in our case, interventional radiology, until attaining mastery. Or at least that’s the theory.

Current ‘virtual reality’ vascular simulations have become a focus of interest for all who would practice in this area, with a race to claim the levels of fidelity and detailed content required for validated training. Yet while useful for learning about procedural steps and tools with a mentor, current technology is unable to train the subtle actions of wire and catheter manipulation. While BSIR members are working towards this, we need to be aware that there are specific requirements for using simulations effectively, for example the need to always use this technology within recognised curricula. This requires a strategy for integrating simulator models into our curricula, and for developing standards for their validation. This strategy has now been developed by the Joint International Simulation Task Force (JITF), with CIRSE, SIR, RSNA and BSIR members working towards “achieving excellence and safety in interventional radiology patient care by jointly recommending and guiding implementation of a robust infrastructure and process to support Interventional Radiology (IR) simulation development, assessment, validation, application, and dissemination”.

JITF will report back to the BSIR on progress as the strategy rolls out over the next few years. Meantime you can view the JITF strategy on: CIRSE_SIR_Joint_Strategy.pdf