Novice Learners’ Perspectives on Obstetric Airway Crisis Decision-Making Training Using Virtual Reality Simulation

( Int J Obstet Anesth. 2024;57:103926. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijoa.2023.103926) The incidence of failed tracheal intubation during cesarean sections ranges from 1:238 to 1:808 and has not improved in 40 years despite advances in airway equipment and training. Most failures occur after hours with trainee anesthetists, leading to a mortality rate of 1 in 90. Over the past 3 decades, the preference for neuraxial over general anesthesia has increased due to better postoperative analgesia and fewer airway complications. Managing difficult airways in obstetrics is crucial but less common, reducing practice opportunities for trainees. Our curriculum includes didactic teaching and simulations, but current training may be insufficient. Virtual reality (VR) offers a potential solution by providing safe, immersive simulation training and enhancing technical and decision-making skills in managing difficult obstetric airways. The study aims to assess junior residents’ learning needs and perceptions of VR as a training tool.