Outcomes of manual extracapsular versus phacoemulsification cataract extraction by beginner resident surgeons

Abstract

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of phacoemulsification cataract extraction and manual extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) performed by beginning resident surgeons. Dallas Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA. Retrospective cohort study. A review was performed of each resident's series of initial cataract surgery procedures as a late first-year or second-year resident. Data were collected for cases performed over almost a 6-year period during which initially the first primary surgeon cases were ECCE and later, the first primary surgeon cases were phacoemulsification. For each case, the following data were gathered: technique of cataract extraction, laterality, resident, vitreous loss or dropped nucleus, placement of posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL), and need for reoperation within 90 days of surgery. Complications occurred in 6 (2.5%) of 244 cases in which phacoemulsification was performed by a beginner resident primary surgeon and in 7 (4.1%) of 172 cases in which ECCE was used (P=.40). Posterior chamber IOLs were placed in all but 2 phacoemulsification cases and 4 ECCE cases (P=.24). Moreover, 3 cases in the phacoemulsification group and 1 case in the ECCE group required a reoperation within 90 days (P=.65). Phacoemulsification cataract extraction can be taught safely and effectively to residents with no cataract surgery experience as a primary surgeon.