360-Degree Virtual Reality Consultations for Patients Undergoing Spine Surgery: A Single Center Pilot Study

Abstract

Background

Virtual reality (VR) has recently emerged as a tool to potentially aid patients’ understanding of disease and reduce perioperative stress. This study therefore aimed to assess patient perceptions of such 360-degree VR models for demonstration of anatomy, pathology, and approach during spine surgery consultations.

Methods

Patient specific, three-dimensional VR models were created using the ConveyXR virtual reality system (Surgical Theater, LLC). Preoperative CT or MRI images were used to create educational models for use during consultations. Participants completed a Likert-style questionnaire regarding their experience to assess their understanding, comfort level, satisfaction, and perceived value of the VR-based demonstration.

Results

Twenty-five patients were enrolled from 2019-2023. 66.7% (n = 16) participated in the session prior to surgical intervention, 20% (n = 5) participated postoperatively, and 8% (n = 2) participated both before and after. The mean satisfaction rating was 9.83 ± 0.38 out of 10. Most respondents reported they understood the doctor’s explanation of the VR content (72% strongly agree, 24% agree), it improved comfort with treatment (76% strongly agree, 12% agree), and that they were generally satisfied with their visit (76% strongly agree, 24% agree). 84% of respondents reported being more satisfied with the novel VR-based approach than traditional methods. 88% would “definitely recommend” the physician and hospital based on their VR consultation.

Conclusions

VR-based consultations were associated with favorable patient-reported perceptions of understanding, comfort, and satisfaction. VR may serve as a feasible adjunct to traditional educational methods, though larger comparative studies are needed to evaluate its impact on clinical outcomes.