Posters

Use of simulation to teach skills for managing complications of cataract surgery

Poster Details

First Author: J.Huxtable UK

Co Author(s):    A. Bhargava              

Abstract Details

Purpose:

Knowing how to manage the common complications that arise during cataract surgery are important skills for the ophthalmic trainee to acquire. In particular, knowing how to manage vitreous loss is critical. There can often be difficulty acquiring these skills as these complications are fairly uncommon and trainers may not be comfortable allowing trainees to manage them. The development of realistic training models has the potential to allow us to use simulation as a means of acquiring these skills. We describe the use of a simulation workshop allowing trainees to acquire skills in managing various cataract complications.

Setting:

Royal Preston Hospital, Preston UK.

Methods:

Three commercially available model eyes were used to simulate different scenarios: (1) Posterior capsule rupture with a residual nuclear fragment. To demonstrate anterior vitrectomy and methods of clearing residual nucleus. (2) IOL insertion into a capsular bag with a large posterior capsule rupture. To demonstrate techniques employed to remove an intraocular lens and place a foldable lens into the sulcus. (3) Conversion to extracapsular cataract extraction. To demonstrate a safe technique and careful wound closure. For the scenarios, the model eyes used were able to be reused.

Results:

Five junior trainee participants enrolled for the session and completed a pre- and post- course questionnaire relating to their previous experience managing cataract complications. None of the trainees had been involved in managing posterior capsule rupture during cataract surgery. All were able to successfully complete the training session. All five participants felt that the use of model eyes aided their understanding of the management of cataract complications and felt more confident in being able to manage their own complications.

Conclusions:

Commercially available model eyes can be successfully used as part of a structured training session to teach trainees about the management of cataract surgery complications and facilitate supervised practice in a safe, controlled setting. FINANCIAL DISCLOUSRE: NONE