PURPOSE: A teaching model for trabeculectomy is described using pig eyes prepared in formalin. METHOD: The model enables trainee surgeons to practice various aspects of tissue handling required for successful trabeculectomy including the construction of a fornix-based conjunctival flap, scleral flap with buried releasable sutures, and water-tight conjunctival closure. RESULTS: Exposure to the necessary skills required to perform trabeculectomy surgery can be improved by the use of wet laboratory practice. CONCLUSIONS: Trabeculectomy surgery experience is becoming more limited as fewer procedures are being performed due to the efficacy of recent medications. Wet laboratories will become an increasingly important aspect of a comprehensive ophthalmology training programme.
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