Simulation of neodymium:YAG posterior capsulotomy for ophthalmologists in training

We describe a new method for training ophthalmologists to perform a neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) posterior capsulotomy. Our model consists of an artificial anterior chamber that can be adjusted to fit any laser instrument and houses an intraocular lens (IOL). The posterior surface of the IOL is coated with a crust simulating posterior capsule opacification (PCO). This model PCO reacts similarly to real PCO when the Nd:YAG laser is applied to it. It creates conditions simulating near-real posterior capsulotomy and has been used successfully to train 3 novice residents who had not performed the procedure. The model is simple, reusable, and inexpensive. We believe it may be a valuable tool in training ophthalmologists to perform an Nd:YAG posterior capsulotomy. (C) 2014 ASCRS and ESCRS