3D surgical videos enhance student preparedness despite lower knowledge retention.

A randomized controlled trial with 231 medical students found that while 3D immersive videos led to lower immediate knowledge retention compared to 2D videos, they significantly improved expected preparedness, satisfaction, and self-confidence after one month. Participants using 3D video reported feeling more engaged, better able to identify anatomical structures, and less overwhelmed. These findings suggest immersive video technology could enhance surgical education during limited access to operating room experiences, although further studies are needed to assess its educational value.