Virtual reality—an innovative tool in medical education

BACKGROUND: Virtual reality (VR) is increasingly recognized as a promising tool in medical education, offering immersive, interactive, and risk-free learning experiences. Its ability to provide three-dimensional visualization of complex anatomical structures may overcome limitations of traditional didactic lectures and cadaver-based learning. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the effectiveness of VR-based neuroanatomy training compared to conventional teaching methods among undergraduate medical students. METHODS: A total of 117 final-year MBBS students at SRIHER were enrolled between December 2024 and April 2025. Students were stratified into three groups with comparable baseline scores. Group 1 received lectures and notes, Group 2 received lectures plus VR sessions on skull base and Circle of Willis models, and Group 3 initially received lectures and notes followed by delayed VR exposure. Knowledge acquisition was assessed using pre-tests, immediate post-tests, and a three-month delayed post-test. Statistical analysis employed a mixed-effects linear model to account for repeated measures and attrition. RESULTS: Group 2 demonstrated significantly higher mean scores in the first post-test (14.1 vs. 10.3 in traditional groups; p = 0.03). At the three-month follow-up, Group 2 maintained superior performance, while Group 3 (delayed VR) showed intermediate improvement compared to controls. Attrition was markedly lower among students exposed to VR (98.4% vs. 58.9%), suggesting higher engagement and sustained interest. Qualitative feedback revealed increased motivation and a notable rise in interest in neurosurgery careers (from 3 to 27 students). CONCLUSION: VR-based training significantly enhances neuroanatomy learning outcomes compared to conventional teaching, particularly when introduced early. Its immersive and interactive features promote deeper engagement, retention, and motivation. While cost remains a barrier, VR holds substantial potential as a sustainable adjunct to medical curricula and a means to inspire interest in surgical specialities.