Virtual reality training and modeling to aid in pre-procedural practice for thoracic nerve root block in the setting of a schwannoma

Virtual reality (VR) is a tool to aid with pre-procedural modeling and practicing for complex procedures with anatomic variation. Here we demonstrate a case of a 64-year-old woman with neuroforaminal compression from a schwannoma that was modeled in VR in order to facilitate pre-procedural training prior to a transforaminal epidural steroid injection. The modeling session allowed for determination of the optimal fluoroscopic angulation to avoid any contact with the mass or nerve root during the procedure. This case study demonstrates a way to incorporate VR in pre-procedural planning and practicing for both learners and experienced interventionalists.