Abstract
Virtual reality simulators have been incorporated into surgical education to provide opportunities for deliberate practice. A broad range of immersive experiences with virtual reality stimulators are commercially available that range from low fidelity devices to high fidelity systems equipped with haptic feedback. Studies have demonstrated the validity of these devices and their ability to shorten learning curves. Concurrent with simulators, serious gaming has become increasingly popular in medical education. These artificial intelligence driven technologies provide a safe learning environment with the additional advantages of standardization and automated feedback. Current applications include the development of basic and complex surgical skills, warm-up and training prior to complex surgeries, assessment of skill, and preoperative or intraoperative planning. Factors like cost, system design, and learning objectives should be considered when considering virtual reality simulation in surgical education.