Reusable Fundus Model for Laser Retinopexy Simulation and Training

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To describe a simulation technique for laser barrier retinopexy as an option for ophthalmologists in training to practice slit lamp and laser indirect ophthalmoscopy (LIO) retinopexy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A commercially available fundus model and laser printer labels were used to simulate laser retinopexy of horseshoe tears (HST). At two time points, seven first-year residents and seven second-year residents were asked to complete three rows of laser burns around HSTs and the times were recorded. RESULTS: Second-year residents completed simulated retinopexies in less time than first-year residents on both the slit lamp (P =.001) and with LIO (P =.001). Second-year residents were also statistically more efficient when retested at the second time point (P =.003 and P =.005, slit lamp and LIO, respectively). CONCLUSION: This novel educational model is able to capture differences in training level and increased experience among ophthalmology trainees, and may be beneficial as part of a structured teaching program.