Glasgow Eye Department Now Using Ocular Simulation Training Through DRV System
Simulation exposure is now an essential component of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists’ Ophthalmic Specialist Training curriculum prior to real-life surgery, according to a news release from Vision Engineering Group, a maker of ergonomic stereo optical and digital instruments.
Bespoke intraocular simulation using the computerised EYESI simulator for cataract (and vitreoretinal training) is now supplemented with realistic model eyes to ensure trainees are well rehearsed and further along the learning curve, which has corresponded with a reduction in surgical complication rates.
Dr. David Lockington, Consultant Ophthalmologist; National Simulation Lead for the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, recently renovated a disused space to create a modern bespoke ophthalmic surgical simulation suite within the Tennent Institute of Ophthalmology in Glasgow. This “teach and train” hub provides the resources required to ensure trainees can develop surgical skills and refine their techniques for better patient outcomes.
Amongst the advanced simulation technologies and training aids installed in the Tennent Institute of Ophthalmology surgical simulation suite is a recently launched DRV-Z1 (Deep Reality Viewer). Designed and manufactured by Vision Engineering, the DRV-Z1 is a glasses-free digital stereo inspection system which creates precise, full 3D HD images that ‘float’ in front of the user’s eyes. Vision Engineering says the invention has the potential to revolutionize medical training techniques and changing the way organizations capture, view and share 3D images.
"Through the use of the DRV-Z1 trainees in the Glasgow based surgical simulation suite are reaping the dual benefits of optical stereo microscopy and advanced digital technology in a single system. The DRV-Z1 provides impressive levels of simulation by delivering fully immersive 3D visualisations with outstanding perception of depth, and magnifications of between 6.1x – 186x with zoom capabilities," according to Vision Engineering.
The design makes it possible to output mono images to TV or computer screens for audience viewing. The DRV-Z1 represents a collaborative teaching aid as its high-definition 3D images can be shared in real time between tutors and trainees. Also, simultaneous remote viewing can be achieved across remote networks with other DRV systems. These captured 3D images and videos can be recorded, archived and later reviewed.
The unit’s ergonomic design is designed to eliminate eye strain, posture problems and fatigue issues associated with extended hours of viewing conventional optical stereo microscopes. Users are able to sit in their preferred positions to work ‘heads-up’. The DRV-Z1’s design also enables easy hand-eye coordination when carrying-out procedures such as dissections, and there are no limitations for wearers of prescription spectacles, safety glasses or PPE.
“All trainee ophthalmologists have to complete mandatory virtual reality modules on the EYESI cataract simulator prior to live surgery," Dr. Lockington said. "However, we wished to ensure they had further surgical exposure and so resourced our simulation suite with a wide range of model eyes to develop wound creation and corneal suturing skills. Furthermore, sub-specialty procedures for glaucoma, retina, cataract and corneal surgery can be rehearsed and refined to ensure competence and confidence within the safe and supportive environment of our dry-lab.”
“Our trainees are now able to gain the advantage of performing surgical simulation tasks in a more ergonomic way, including viewing high magnification 3D images without the need for additional glasses. Vision Engineering’s DRV-Z1 has been an extremely valuable addition to our dry-lab and I believe that it represents an ideal technology for use in similar ophthalmology training simulation situations," Dr. Lockington added.