Using Java to embed complex simulation media into surgical training environments

Digital technologies can offer a safe training environment for familiarisation with new surgical procedures. To enhance access to and control of these virtual environments, a Java-based interface is used. The Exeter Virtual Worlds (EVW) shoulder arthroscopy simulator is designed to teach surgical pattern recognition skills via an interactive medium, using a thin client via a distributed computer architecture. The Java-based interface has been developed to enable the EVW system to be operated remotely from within a declarative (factual) Web-based training environment. By using Java for the control interface, it was possible for the surgeon to operate the virtual environment from a remote machine using familiar windows-style controls, which a focus group confirmed to be adequate for the task. The development of networking computer architectures will assist the assimilation of multiple sources and media. The interface now offers the opportunity to collect statistically significant data from such simulation systems embedded in an educational environment.