Objectives　To explore the feasibility of applying virtual reality (VR) technology to surgical skills training for postgraduate students with VR technology and to evaluate its training effect. Methods　Taking the VR software for nephrectomy as an example

the VR software was applied to the surgical training of the surgery postgraduates

and compared with the traditional teaching methods to evaluate its training effect. Meanwhile the questionnaires about the performance characteristics and technological advantages of VR software were distributed to participators. Results　The examination performances in group with VR training were significantly better than that with traditional teaching methods (92.17±0.38 vs. 87.94±0.43

P<0.001). A total of 35 valid questionnaires were collected back. More than 82% of participators considered that VR surgery teaching had advantages of realistic training mode

strong three-dimensional effect

friendly interface

easy manipulation

favorable interaction

convenient full-scale viewing

splendid and plentiful course content

wonderful training effect and stimulating training interest. All of participators confirmed that VR surgery teaching can replace the traditional surgery training methods. Conclusions　It is feasible to apply VR technology in surgical skills training for postgraduates. The effect of surgical skills training with VR technology for postgraduates is significantly superior to the traditional training methods

which is worth further popularization and application.