Simulation of laser retinopexy around retinal breaks for ophthalmologists in training

Purpose: To describe a new method for training residents in ophthalmology in performing laser retinopexy around retinal breaks, and its practicality. Methods: The simulator consists of a model eye that can be adjusted to fit any laser instrument, with a retinal break created in it. The retinal breaks are made of paper strips and can simulate tears and holes. The simulator is used with a three-mirror lens and real laser instrument. Results: The simulator creates conditions simulating near-real laser retinopexy and has been used successfully in training 3 novice residents who have never performed this procedure before. Conclusions: This simulator is simple, reusable and inexpensive. We believe it may be a valuable instructional tool in training residents in performing laser retinopexy, shorten their learning curve and improve their efficiency it in.