Developing a system to coach surgeons on where to look during virtual surgery training

Autonomous Gaze Coaching for Virtual Reality Telesurgical Simulators

['FUNDING_R21'] · CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11092934

This study is working on a smart virtual reality tool that helps train surgeons by giving them real-time tips on where to look while they practice, making it easier for them to learn and improve their skills, especially in places where there aren't many experienced teachers.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11092934 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating an autonomous gaze coaching system for training surgeons using virtual reality simulations. By analyzing the gaze patterns of expert and novice surgeons, the project aims to develop a data-driven tool that can provide real-time feedback on gaze direction during surgical practice. This approach seeks to enhance the training process, making it more efficient and accessible, especially in areas lacking expert instructors. The ultimate goal is to improve surgical skills and patient outcomes by accelerating the learning curve for trainee surgeons.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are surgical trainees and medical professionals involved in minimally invasive surgery training.

Not a fit: Patients who are not involved in surgical training or do not participate in minimally invasive surgical procedures may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the training of surgeons, leading to better surgical outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in using gaze training to improve surgical skills, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.