Posters

The role of surgical simulation for training in cataract surgery

Poster Details

First Author: N.Nosrati UK

Co Author(s):                     

Abstract Details

Purpose:

Microsurgery is a significant learning curve for junior ophthalmology trainees, requiring years of hands-on practice. The delicate and high-risk nature of ophthalmic surgery means there is a low tolerance for error and due to logistical issues occasionally only one surgeon can be accommodated for, leaving trainees with less opportunity to gain practical experience. The EyeSi surgical simulator allows for regular practical exposure in a safe setting and has therefore gained popularity amongst ophthalmology trainees worldwide. This review evaluates the effectiveness of the EyeSi as training tool and its impacts on clinical practice.

Setting:

University of Plymouth, UK.

Methods:

A literature search was conducted across medical and educational databases. Abstracts of 143 articles were screened to exclude any non-cataract surgery and duplicates studies. A total of 15 articles, were evaluated to assess the validity of the EyeSi as a cataract surgery simulator and its effect on training and patient outcomes.

Results:

Significant construct validity was demonstrated for many of the EyeSi modules, including capsulorhexis, forceps training, anti-tremor, and intra-ocular navigation. Time spent on phacoemulsification was significantly lower in simulator-trained groups compared to simulator-naïve. There were fewer reports of intra-operative complications amongst trainees with exposure to the EyeSi. Furthermore, attempts at capsulorhexis in wet-lab sessions were shown to be superior and more consistent in groups with exposure to simulator training.

Conclusions:

Implementing surgical simulation as a part of cataract surgery training enhances trainees’ microsurgical skills and builds confidence prior to engagement in live surgery. This can result in greater learner satisfaction and improved patient outcomes. The EyeSi can also be used as an assessment tool, measuring trainee performance and differentiating their skill levels. Therefore, it is an important adjunct in learning cataract surgery. Given these findings, the use of simulation for other branches of ophthalmic surgery would be of particular interest.

Financial Disclosure:

None