Before performing complex skull base surgery on patients, trainees at Nebraska Medicine and UNMC can practice the procedure dozens of times in a risk-free, highly realistic environment.
That’s the advantage of advanced simulation training, which recently took center stage during the Advanced Endoscopic Sinus & Ventral Skull Base Surgery Course at the Davis Global Center.
The multidisciplinary program brought together otolaryngology and neurosurgery residents and fellows for expert-led instruction and hands-on surgical simulation designed to strengthen skills and confidence in some of the most complex procedures performed in medicine.
One of the most exciting additions this year was the VR skull base anatomy experience. This cutting-edge technology allows trainees to explore the complex three-dimensional relationships of the nerves, vessels, bone, and other critical structures of the skull base in a way that traditional teaching simply cannot replicate.
“There is something incredibly rewarding about watching trainees take what they learn in the classroom, translate it into a simulated operative environment, and build the confidence and technical skills needed to care for patients safely,” said otolaryngologist and head and neck surgeon Christie Barnes, MD, who holds the Dwight T. Jones, MD Professorship in the UNMC Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery.
“These courses represent what I love most about academic medicine: collaboration, innovation, education, and a shared commitment to better patient care,” she said. “By investing in our trainees today, we are helping prepare the next generation to deliver advanced, complex surgical care safely for our patients at UNMC and throughout our community.”