The pre-course e-learning will focus on developing an understanding of phaco-dynamics as well as detailed explanations of the techniques underpinning each stage of phacoemulsification surgery. The focus will be on hands-on practical experience with only short introductions to each topic followed by practice on a variety of model eyes. We guarantee that each trainee will have the opportunity to complete at least 10 phacoemulsification procedures over the 2 days.

We would strongly advise trainees to use the initial weeks of their theatre training to observe different phacoemulsification techniques, to become accustomed to the workings of the operating microscope, to practice their prepping and draping skills and to confine intraocular manoeuvres to inserting IOLs and performing aspiration of the lens cortex.

Course structure

Day 1 - Registration 8.30 - 9.00am
Introduction
Corneal incisions
Capsulorhexis techniques
Hydrodissection and hydrodelineation techniques

Lunch

Corneal suturing
Phacodynamics: talk and machine demonstrations
Introduction to objectives and principles of nucleus sculpting and cracking

Day 2 – 9.00am start
Nucleus disassembly: video demonstrations
Phaco practice
Corneal suturing practice
Irrigation-Aspiration discussion and videos
IOL insertion: discussion

Lunch

Complications: vitreous loss, recognition / action / management
Phaco practice & corneal suturing practice
Psychological aspects of surgery – human factors and coping with set backs.

5.00pm Debrief and feedback
5.30pm Close