Novel Virtual Reality Simulator for Cleft Palate Surgery Training: An Assessment of Educational Feasibility and Traction Among Plastic Surgery Residents.

This article evaluates plastic surgery residents' acceptance of a multiuser virtual reality (VR) simulation platform designed to teach the Furlow repair technique for cleft palate reconstruction. Conducted at a single tertiary care institution with 20 residents, the study found that participation in the VR workshop significantly increased learners' confidence in using VR for surgical education, understanding of the Furlow technique, and positive attitudes toward incorporating VR into medical training. Trainees rated the VR simulation as stimulating, clear, and effective, preferring it over traditional educational tools such as textbooks and lectures. The study suggests that VR-based simulation can enhance surgical education for cleft palate repair and holds promise for expanding access to specialized training in both high- and low-resource settings.