Trends in cataract surgery training curricula

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Education
• Surgical Training

Background:

• Cataract surgery training has evolved significantly.
• Understanding current trends in resident surgical education is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate trends in cataract surgery training curricula.
• To identify factors influencing resident participation as a primary surgeon.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study utilizing anonymous survey results.
• Survey e-mailed to program directors of ACGME-accredited ophthalmology residency programs.
• 51 program directors completed the survey.

Main Results:

• Residents perform a mean of 2, 25, and 155 phacoemulsification surgeries in their first, second, and third years, respectively.
• Clear corneal phacoemulsification is the primary technique taught (91%).
• 71% of programs have structured curricula; however, 29% lack a formal cataract surgery curriculum.

Conclusions:

• Residents begin phacoemulsification earlier and perform more surgeries than previously required.
• Gaps persist in formal cataract surgery training curricula across residency programs.