Egerton University Adopts Virtual Reality for Advanced Surgery Training

Egerton University Adopts Virtual Reality for Advanced Surgery Training

Egerton University, in collaboration with the Kenya Education Network (KENET), has launched a virtual digital platform that will connect medical students with surgeons in different operating theatres globally via high-capacity internet. This initiative will allow students to watch live and pre-recorded surgical procedures in 360-degree virtual reality (VR), enhancing their training and surgical skills.

Vice Chancellor Professor Isaac Kibwage highlighted that the collaboration leverages digital tools to improve surgical training and data-driven research under KENET’s Teaching Hospitals Connectivity Initiative. The integration of eduroam and surgical theatre telepresence systems will provide students with a more interactive and immersive learning experience.

The virtual reality training system enables surgery students to observe procedures, gain confidence, and undergo assessments before performing operations themselves. Unlike traditional methods using mannequins, simulations, or cadavers—which are costly and limited in capacity—the VR technology is affordable and widely accessible, requiring only an internet connection and a mobile phone.

Professor Kibwage expressed optimism that this technology will allow medical students and trainees to prepare for procedures independently, reducing reliance on busy consultants and minimizing surgical errors. The university’s students will now refine their skills through live video conference surgery demonstrations with global experts.

As part of the initiative, Egerton University will integrate the ‘Proximie’ platform, which is widely used by surgical specialists. ‘Proximie’ enhances knowledge sharing, collaboration, and oversight by digitizing operating rooms and diagnostic suites, making surgery more efficient and accessible. The Nakuru Teaching and Referral Hospital has become the fourth facility in Kenya to embrace ‘Proximie,’ joining institutions such as Kenyatta National Hospital and the University of Nairobi.

Professor Kibwage noted that advancements in fibre optic technology have made live surgery streaming feasible, ensuring real-time connectivity during delicate procedures. The Surgical VR system, which was conceptualized during the COVID-19 pandemic, has since evolved into a powerful tool for medical training.

KENET Executive Director Professor Meoli Kashorda emphasized that ‘Proximie’ offers medical students and professionals a unique opportunity to observe live surgeries, participate in simulations, and engage with leading global experts. The platform facilitates knowledge exchange and innovation, raising the standards of surgical care.

Founded by Dr. Nadine Hachach-Haram, ‘Proximie’ records and analyzes every procedure to inform best practices. By connecting operating rooms worldwide, it generates a vast, insightful dataset that enhances healthcare standards globally. The technology is currently deployed in over 800 hospitals across 50 countries and has partnerships with more than 40 major medical device companies, providing access to 90% of operating rooms and diagnostic suites in the USA, UK, and EU.

Egerton University Adopts Virtual Reality for Advanced Surgery Training