ADVANCES IN VIRTUAL REALITY AND 3D PRINTING TECHNOLOGIES APPLIED TO GENERAL SURGERY: A LITERATURE REVIEW(Atena Editora)

Abstract

Objective: To analyze advances in Virtual Reality (VR) and 3D Printing technologies applied to general surgery, as well as their clinical implications and the learning curve required to use them. Methodology: We performed a narrative review of the literature. Studies published from 2018 to 2023 were included and inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, resulting in the analysis of 18 studies. Discussion: Objects printed by 3D printers, created from digital models, have been integrated into surgery in a beneficial way for medical practice. The tactile and three-dimensional visualization provided by these objects allows a better understanding of the procedure, both for the medical team and for the patient, which positively impacts all surgical phases, from planning to the postoperative period. The use of Virtual Reality also brings benefits, as it allows safer surgical planning and provides the patient with greater adherence to the procedure. The combination of these technologies generates a perfect integration between the real and virtual surgical environment, resulting in a significant improvement in the training of professionals and in the performance of procedures. However, it is important to emphasize that these technologies still have limitations, such as the high financial cost and the lack of well-established evidence in more invasive scenarios. Despite this, we recognize the impact on the learning process. Although the incorporation of these technologies into curricula is still limited, projections indicate a possible improvement in the quality of care and a reduction in ethical, financial, legal and cultural concerns related to future studies in human beings. Conclusion: The use of VR and 3D Printing applied to general surgery has favorable advantages for both medical practice and patients. Despite the considerable financial costs, these technologies have the potential to significantly contribute to the improvement of surgical processes in a comprehensive way.