The Use of Mixed Reality in Training Trainers—A Single-Centre Study

There has been an exponential increase in the utility of mixed-reality (MR) software as a tool for medical education and training due to its immersive and interactive capabilities. Whilst it has been progressively used in surgical training or in simulation training, there is a significant lack of using it to train the “trainers”. In this single-centre prospective study, MR technology was used to deliver a dedicated 2-h tutorial in surgical training to two cohorts of postgraduate students attending a course on clinical research and education. The Microsoft HoloLens 2 was used to run mixed-reality software capable of rendering CT scan images of a normal brain, an MRI of a large meningioma, an abdominal–pelvic CT scan, and a 3D-printed cranioplasty scan. The participants were then asked to complete a post-usage questionnaire in an anonymous manner. Fourteen participants attended the teaching session and completed the post-usage questionnaire. Scores obtained on the User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ) revealed that MR technology is rated “Excellent” on quality aspects for Attractiveness, Stimulation and Novelty. This prospective study provides insight into incorporating MR in training the trainers, allowing them to be equipped with the technology to imparting education to the next generation across various disciplines.