Resident-Performed Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery: Impact of Resident-Level Characteristics

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Education
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Cataract surgery is a common procedure.
• Resident training in phacoemulsification is crucial for developing surgical skills.
• Monitoring complication rates during residency is essential for quality improvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the complication rates of phacoemulsification performed by ophthalmology residents.
• To identify factors influencing complication rates during resident-performed cataract surgery.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study analyzing 1440 cataract surgeries per resident.
• Outcomes assessed included capsular rupture, nucleus drop, and incomplete procedures.
• Complication rates were analyzed in relation to surgical experience and surgeon characteristics.

Main Results:

• The most common complications were capsular rupture (7.5%), incomplete attempts (5.9%), and nucleus drop (1.1%).
• Complication rates decreased with increasing surgical experience.
• Greater theoretical skills and younger surgeon age were associated with lower complication rates.

Conclusions:

• Surgical experience significantly reduces complication rates in resident phacoemulsification.
• Enhanced theoretical knowledge may improve the safety of resident-performed cataract surgery.
• Antianxiety medication and early surgical volume did not predict fewer complications.