A recent press release by the NYU School of Medicine states that ophthalmologists there are among the first to evaluate the EYESI Surgical Simulator, “the only ophthalmic virtual reality surgical training system on the market, and to utilize this cutting-edge technology in their surgical training programs.”
The simulator is made by VRmagic, a company headquartered in Mannheim, Germany, which describes its technology:
EYESI® is a simulator for intraocular surgery. The use of advanced computer technology gives the surgeon the feeling that he is experiencing real intraocular surgery. During simulated surgery the surgeon uses instruments that feel and function just like the real ones. The view through the EYESI® microscope is similar to the familiar stereo vision through the surgical microscope. The course of surgery is not predefined but is dependent on the way the surgeon works. Tissue reaction is individually computed in each training session. The system is intuitively controlled through a touch display. EYESI® allows you to experience intraocular surgery realistically outside the operating room.
EYESI® Surgery Training
EYESI® opens a new dimension of intraocular surgery training. Training with EYESI® teaches basic surgical techniques and enables trainee surgeons to become familiar with handling rare cases and possible complications.
EYESI® can be fitted with various software modules that expand the scope of the simulated surgical procedures. Basic training modules include various chapters that teach basic manual and surgical abilities and the handling of surgical instruments. Simulation modules imitate a surgical procedure realistically.
VRmagic is continually developing new optional software modules that expand the range of training opportunities and ensure that the system is state of the art.
Basic Training Module 1
Navigation (needle*): Training of precise navigation with surgical instruments viewed under the stereo microscope.
Object manipulation (tweezers*): Using tweezers to manipulate solid objects in the vitreous body and to remove objects from the vitreous body.
Vitrectomy (vitrectomy unit*): Learning how to use the vitrectomy unit correctly and how to regulate the cutting speed and flow or suction.
Membrane Simulation Module
Simulation equipment included in the module:Various intraocular membranes need to be removed. The vitrectomy unit and a variety of light sources, tweezers, hooks and scissors are available. Vitrectomy unit, configurable for flow or vacuum control Monitoring and display of retina and lens injuries Microscope control by pedal, configurable pedal for control of equipment and instruments
EYESI® Surgery Training
* Every chapter also includes simulation of the surgery lamp.