Pedagogical evaluation of an augmented reality thoracentesis simulator for the training of medical students.

Thoracentesis is a common invasive procedure, with many indications, which can induce anxiety for the patient and the health professional in charge. However, the risk of complications remains limited when carried out by a trained operator. Teaching of thoracocentesis to medical students is usually made directly on the patient. Within the last years, new medical simulation tools have been developed, helping for student training, and to increase the safety and the comfort of the patients (“on a real patient, never the first time”). It is important for these simulators to be realistic, easy to use, and to confirm their pedagogical interest with clinical studies. The department of respiratory medicine of the Strasbourg University Hospital developed in collaboration with a local company, expert in the production of simulation devices, an augmented reality thoracentesis simulator, associated with a virtual reality headset, brining realistic sensations to get through the different parietal structures of the chest wall, especially the skin and the pleura, with a haptic force feedback system (Figure). The main purpose of our prospective randomized controlled study is to evaluate, the improvement in students’ abilities to perform a first pleural puncture after a training with the simulator, compared to students with a standard training. The study started on January 2024, we present here our first data. <fig><object-id>erj;64/suppl_68/PA4376/F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><object-id>F1</object-id><graphic></graphic></fig>