Virtual Mentor Cataract Surgery Trainer

摘要

The Virtual Mentor Cataract Surgery Trainer is a computer based, cognitive simulation of phacoemulsification cataract surgery. It is designed to teach the steps of the surgery, common errors, and ways to rectify these errors. We interviewed phaco experts, and edited video of the interviews into brief clips for use as just in time feedback to learners, and as answers to Help and Reference questions. Our database includes over 100 edited expert video clips. Combining information from expert interviews with our own observations, we created the overall architecture for the simulation, including action options, questions, and appropriate expert stories for each step of the procedure. We wrote pathways and scenarios for the capsulorhexis and nucleus removal modules. We wrote questions and answers for Help and Reference sections for these modules. We created over 400 3D animations for steps and complications of the capsulorhexis and nucleus removal modules. Although not part of our statement of work, we were able to leverage our funding with additional resources. We were therefore able to complete a clear corneal incision module and revise the capsulorhexis module to include new material. We created new animations for the capsulorhexis moduel in order to have a consistent style for all animations. The value of this teaching method has been validated in a study that has been accepted in a peer reviewed journal.