Using endoscopy to teach cataract surgery

Current methods of teaching cataract surgery include lectures, wet-lab sessions, and participation in real surgery. We describe a new method using a microendoscopic cyclophotocoagulation device during phacoemulsification cataract extraction and posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in 4 eyes of 4 patients. Endoscopic visualization during surgery aided in construction of the corneal incision, location of the capsulorhexis edge, and estimation of the lens groove depth. It also demonstrated clinical findings not observable with the surgical microscope such as misplaced IOL haptics and residual lens cortex. Use of the endoscope enhanced the educational value of the surgery and the final surgical outcome.