Eye Surgeon Develops Surgical Training Device

A new cataract surgical device developed by John S. Jarstad, M.D., F.A.A.O. – adjunct associate professor, Pacific NW University C.O.M. and medical director of Evergreen Eye Centers, Federal Way, Wash. has been unveiled. The Jarstad Cataract Surgery Trainer is a practice system providing surgical training that enhances skills, reinforcing fine motor skills and muscle-memory, to help optimize surgical procedures in the operating room.

The Jarstad Cataract Surgery Trainer utilizes the highly authentic Jarstad-Stone teaching head, developed in conjunction with an engineer from the Boeing Corporation, is more lifelike than other teaching heads – making training and practice more realistic. It also provides a grooved channel around the perimeter to safeguard surgical tools.

The system, available through Gulden Ophthalmics, is comprised of the Jarstad-Stone lifelike simulation teaching head, two acrylic cylinders that hold the Jarstad eye module or animal eyes, blue plastic cellophane sheeting that simulates the capsule, kaolin clay that simulates the mature cataract, and an instructional video DVD. The system permits ophthalmology residents in training, or experienced surgeons who wish to refresh their skills, to experience the required decisions and tasks involved in performing cataract surgery in a virtual environment; beginning with a capsulorrhexis prior to phacoemulsification. It is a less expensive and more convenient and lifelike training system than other training options. Hands-on, it enhances fine motor skills compared to some virtual computer-based systems, which are often much more expensive.

According to the Department of Ophthalmology at the Boston University School of Medicine, "The step of capsulorrhexis not infrequently inspires fear and trepidation in the beginning phacoemulsification surgeon." However, a measured, well-planned, and practiced approach using the Jarstad Trainer can instill confidence and higher-level skills while minimizing complications in experienced surgeons.

The Jarstad Cataract Surgery Trainer utilizes the highly authentic Jarstad-Stone teaching head, developed in conjunction with an engineer from the Boeing Corporation, is more lifelike than other teaching heads – making training and practice more realistic. It also provides a grooved channel around the perimeter to safeguard surgical tools.