Using a modern visualization system microscope in teaching – benefits and hurdles

Modern visualization systems such as the microscope have revolutionized neurosurgery and many other fields within surgery. However, in spinal surgery there has been a delay in acceptance. As less invasive spinal surgery becomes a more attractive way of  performing spine surgery, visualization tools have also been further explored. Teaching materials and strategies are needed in order to familiarize surgeons with the use of the microscope and other modern visualization systems. This will be discussed in this lecture.