Simulation-based certification for cataract surgery

Ann Sofia Skou Thomsen, Jens Folke Kiilgaard, Hadi Kjaerbo, Morten Dornonville de la Cour, Lars Konge

32 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Purpose To evaluate the EyeSi simulator in regard to assessing competence in cataract surgery. The primary objective was to explore all simulator metrics to establish a proficiency-based test with solid evidence. The secondary objective was to evaluate whether the skill assessment was specific to cataract surgery. Methods We included 26 ophthalmic trainees (no cataract surgery experience), 11 experienced cataract surgeons (>4000 cataract procedures) and five vitreoretinal surgeons. All subjects completed 13 different modules twice. Simulator metrics were used for the assessments. Results Total module score on seven of 13 modules showed significant discriminative ability between the novices and experienced cataract surgeons. The intermodule reliability coefficient was 0.76 (p < 0.001). A pass/fail level was defined from the total score on these seven modules using the contrasting-groups method. The test had an overall ability to discriminate between novices and experienced cataract surgeons, as 21 of 26 novices (81%) versus one of 11 experienced surgeons (9%) did not pass the test. The vitreoretinal surgeons scored significantly higher than the novices (p = 0.006), but not significantly lower than the experienced cataract surgeons (p = 0.32). Conclusion We have established a performance test, consisting of seven modules on the EyeSi simulator, which possess evidence of validity. The test is a useful and reliable tool for assessment of both cataract surgical and general microsurgical skills in vitro.

Original languageEnglish
JournalActa Ophthalmologica
Volume93
Issue number5
Pages (from-to)416-21
Number of pages6
ISSN1755-375X
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Aug 2015

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