Enhancing orthopaedic competency through simulation: A student-centered approach to bridge educational gaps

Table 7 Comparison of current study with selected simulation-based orthopedic education studies

Ref.	Study design	Participants	Simulation modality	Outcomes measured	Key findings
Kelly et al[24], 2017	Mixed-methods study	Medical students	Simulated musculoskeletal environment	Knowledge, confidence, feedback	Improved self-efficacy and musculoskeletal exam skills
Butler et al[20], 2017	Pre-post intervention	Interns and students	Supracondylar fracture simulator	Technical skill, self-confidence	Improved skill performance and confidence post-training
Wilson et al[22], 2020	Randomized crossover trial	Undergraduate medical students	VR and physical models	Knowledge scores, retention	Both modalities improved scores; VR had slightly higher retention
Klingebiel et al[21], 2024	Experimental study	Orthopedic surgeons	Pelvic fracture simulator	Technical confidence, skill acquisition	Simulator enhanced emergency procedure readiness
Schöbel et al[23], 2024	Prospective controlled trial	Medical students	Immersive VR for knee arthroscopy	Procedural steps understanding, engagement	VR significantly improved procedural knowledge and engagement
Our study, 2025	Cross-sectional observational	106 final-year MBBS students	Synthetic bone models, plaster kits	Procedural accuracy, knowledge retention, confidence	Significant improvements in all domains; prior exposure and academic scores were predictors of better outcomes

VR: Virtual reality; MBBS: Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery.