Quantitative Evaluation of the Learning Process of Phacoemulsification by Senior and Junior Ophthalmologists

Abstract

: To evaluate the learning process of phacoemulsification and aspiration (PEA) with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation by junior and senior ophthalmologists.Five ophthalmologists being trained to perform PEA and IOL implantation through temporal corneal incision were studied. The technique involved surgery with the dominant right hand for the right eye and the non-dominant left hand for the left eye. The time for surgery and energy required for ultrasonic (US) emulsification of the lens were recorded and used to quantitatively evaluate the learning process. The time and energy required for us for the early cases were compared with later cases. The time required for emulsification decreased after training. There were no significant differences in the time required to perform the technique for the right and left hands of four trainees. One trainee required more time to perform the surgery with his left hand, which did not decrease with training. Younger trainees demonstrated a reduction in energy used, whereas older trainees did not, indicating slower learning. The training process could be evaluated quantitatively and then be used for medical education and evaluation of the surgeon.