Custom Surgical Blog | AR-Assisted Surgical Training, MicroART, Helps Transfer Skills from Wet Lab to Operating Theatre Technology Improves Digital Education in Ophthalmology

AR-Assisted Surgical Training, MicroART, Helps Transfer Skills from Wet Lab to Operating Theatre Technology Improves Digital Education in Ophthalmology

Technology

28 June 2023

AR-Assisted Surgical Training, MicroART, Helps Transfer Skills from Wet Lab to Operating Theatre Technology Improves Digital Education in Ophthalmology

Cataract surgery is one of the most performed ophthalmic surgeries. The learning curve to master the capsulorhexis step in this kind of surgery procedure is steep and demands time.

As global demographics change, so does the need for ophthalmologists who can perform this challenging surgery. Ophthalmologists in training look for new ways to train and improve their performance in the real world.

A recent study by Dr. Daniel Muth demonstrates that augmented reality (AR) technology increased accuracy in ophthalmic surgeries, which could translate into more efficient training for ophthalmic residents and surgeons.

Two Students training capsulorhexis on MicroREC and MicroART, AR and AI application to train capsulorhexis — Students at CETC training capsulorhexis with MicroART application - illustrative image

AR and Smartphone-Enabled Microscopes

Together, the MicroREC optical system and the MicroART app allow surgeons in practice and in training to enhance visualization that can be used for localization or guidance purposes.

AR technology can enable more efficient surgical training by providing trainees with real-time visuals of procedures. This is made possible by innovations like MicroREC’s optical system, which connects a smartphone to a microscope or slit lamp and allows for the recording and capturing of high-quality images and videos.

Together, the MicroREC optical system and the MicroART app provide surgeons - in practice and in training - enhanced visualization that can be used for localization or guidance purposes, ultimately performing better surgeries and diagnoses. In addition, MicroREC and MicroART enables greater collaboration through sharing and streaming procedures in real-time.

These technologies help improve surgical precision and patient outcomes by allowing trainees and doctors to see and share fine details that would otherwise not be visible.

Capsulorhexis Wet Lab at CETC with MicroART

A Study on Capsulorhexis Training Methods

Dr. Daniel Muth wanted measurable results using a scientific approach to compare surgical training methods with and without the AR training application. Together with his colleagues, Dr. Muth designed a study called Objective Quality Assessment of the Capsulorhexis – A Novel Augmented Reality Tool for Trainees and Experts. The study compared results from three training groups who worked on 3D models of eyes. Each group was equipped with different technologies:

● Group 1 used MicroART – first AR smartphone application for capsulorhexis training, the MicroREC, and received real-time feedback during the procedure

● Group 2 received assistance from a surgeon

● Group 3 conducted the procedure with no support

Smartphone Slit Lamp Imaging – Usability and Quality Assessment

Read Dr. Muth’s study from the Department of Ophthalmology, University of Zurich

The students were measured on the core quality parameters of capsulorhexis: circularity, centration, and diameter. Overall, the study found that:

● MicroREC technology proved its feasibility and added value to the residents

● Group 1, the students who used MicroART, performed a higher quality capsulorhexis, especially in circularity

● The introduction of AR in the training workflow was well accepted and appreciated by participants

● Using MicroART, the procedure was completed as quickly as a classic wet lab procedure

Dr. Muth said, “When you train for cataract surgery, you optimize for the most complicated step. [MicroART and the MicroREC] make an expensive, complicated process very easy and affordable.”

Federico Acosta said, “This is the future of surgery and surgical training. You’re using real instruments and working with real microscopes. It gives you an edge.”

Reach out to schedule a demo of MicroART.