Efficacy of surgical simulator training versus traditional wetlab training on the complication rate during capsulorrhexis portion of cataract surgery in trainees

Abstract

AbstractPurpose The purpose of this study is to determine the translational effectiveness of surgical simulation as part of resident training on their performance on the task of casulorhexis during their first surgeries, as compared to traditional wetlab training.Methods Second Year Residents on rotation at the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System were randomized to continuous capsulorrhexis training (CCC) in the traditional wetlab (n=10) with silicone eye versus on the EYESI surgical simulator (n=11). After completion of the training, residents' initial CCCs in the operating room on real patients were videorecorded. Videos were reviewed and scored by two anterior segment attending surgeons.Results Scores on 12 measures of performance were reasonably close in all cases; there was no statistical significance in any of the differences in individual scores. Correlation across all 12 measures of performance is 0.919 (p<.001). Overall score was calculated as the sum of the 12 individual performance scores. There was no significant difference in overall score between the two groups (p=.527).Conclusion Study suggests surgical simulator training when compared to traditional wetlab training is a safe, non‐risk method of preparing trainees to perform capsulorrhexis during their initial surgical experiences on real patients in the operating room.