Simulated ocular surgery: cataract, glaucoma, strabismus and VR surgery

Abstract

AbstractThe emergence of high fidelity virtual reality simulators has helped to raise the profile of simulation for cataract and vitreoretinal surgery. However, with the advent of the EYESi there is a misconception that all simulation needs to be high tech and expensive and is out of the reach of many training units across the globe. We will describe how innovative model eyes, can be used to teach the same skills and in many instances offer a more realistic and versatile simulation experience than virtual reality simulators and how to incorporate this form of simulation into your training programmes. With reference to cataract surgery we will demonstrate how the building blocks of phacoemulsification, such as wound construction, continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis, nucleus sculpting and IOL implantation can be practice on the model eyes. We will also demonstrate how one can simulate intraoperative complications of cataract surgery, such as posterior capsule rupture with vitreous loss, zonular dialysis and suprachoroidal haemorrhage. We will also show how these eyes can be used to simulate rectus muscle and oblique muscle surgery in a highly life‐like fashion. Commercial interest