Study design
This study was designed as a prospective randomised study. We recruited medical students with minimal experience in surgery and randomly split them into two groups: the virtual reality group (VRT) and the traditional training, control group (TT). Both groups received identical training utilizing two different methods and then performed a mastoidectomy on 3D-printed temporal bone models. Participants’ performance was evaluated after the training drilling was completed. Participants were volunteers and signed an informed consent form. There were no risks or benefits included for the participants. An organizational permit was applied for and granted by Kuopio University Hospital (permit number: 5551879).