Virtual reality objects improve learning efficiency and retention of diagnostic ability in fetal ultrasound

Objective Virtual reality (VR) objects of fetal ultrasound volumes have been proposed for teaching and learning diagnostic ultrasound. The aim of this study was to determine if VR objects improve learning efficiency and retention of diagnostic ability in fetal ultrasound. Methods Medical students and junior doctors were taught normal and abnormal sonographic fetal brain anatomy using conventional means (video lectures and review articles; control group) or additionally with selected VR objects from a novel fetal brain atlas (Pocket Brain, http://pb.fetal.ch; study group). Knowledge, speed of recognition and retention of diagnostic ability were tested in multiple-choice questionnaires 1 and 4 months after teaching, and the results were compared between those taught using conventional means only and those taught using VR objects. Results Participants taught using VR objects answered significantly more questions correctly and solved the tests quicker than those taught using conventional methods only, both 1 and 4 months after teaching. Conclusion The use of VR objects in teaching fetal ultrasound significantly improves learning efficiency and knowledge retention. Copyright (c) 2018 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.