Evaluation of the time required to complete a cataract training program on EyeSi surgical simulator during the first-year residency

Abstract

Purpose To evaluate the time required to complete a cataract training program for first-year ophthalmology residents using the EyeSi simulator. In addition, evaluate whether the simulator improves virtual performance of cataract surgery during the program. Methods We prospectively included first-year ophthalmology residents who had no experience of cataract surgery. The EyeSi simulator was used, and residents were able to follow the cataract training program, including course A (the easiest) through to course D (the hardest). In course B and above, a “cataract challenge” is proposed to the trainee every hour of simulation. Results A total of 24 participants were included in the study. During the study period, the mean (SD) total time spent on the surgical simulator was 815.6 (174.7) minutes. All the participants completed courses A and B within a mean (SD) of 366.7 (108.0) minutes. A total of 22 residents (91.7%) residents completed course C, and 5 (20.8%) course D. The mean (SD) best score on cataract challenge was 445.6/500 (40.2; range: 330–493) and was obtained in a mean (SD) 7.6 (2.6) attempts. All the residents obtained a score ≥ 60%. The best score in cataract challenge was not correlated to the time spent to achieve courses A and B (r = -0.37, p = 0.0726). Conclusions The time required to complete a basic cataract training program is possible during the first-year residency. The scores obtained in the cataract challenge also increased during the training program and should lead to better surgery skills in these young ophthalmologists.