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Stan Pletcher
Apr 17, 2012, 5:05:08 PM4/17/12
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Glenn,
Our group will grow quite a bit over ASCRS and was wondering if you could report to the group a bit about how the HelpMeSee Manual Small Incision simulator process is going? This would be a great start to our Global Cataract Discussion.
Glenn Strauss
Apr 18, 2012, 1:10:50 PM4/18/12
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Help Me See will formally test its first prototype MSICS training simulator the week of April 23rd. Built by Touch of Life Technologies (Denver, CO) according to specifications that include surgically realistic MSICS tunnel architecture and feel and anterior segment anatomy, this prototype sets the stage for development of the full-on training simulator.
The priority for the prototype development has been to test the limits of current and evolving technologies for real time micro surgical interactions. From a surgeon's point of view, it is quite incredible to experience the live surgical feel in virtual reality (VR). But more importantly from the training point of view, we hope to demonstrate how surgical skills training can be done with high efficiency and quality using only VR. Based on the lessons learned during prototype development, we expect to select our vendors for the full project.
For now, the simulator doesn't look very pretty and our testing is limited to subjective and objective measurements using a few experienced MSICS surgeons. As full simulator development progresses (including the components that will create the illusion of being in the operating theater), we are also developing the plans for full validation studies. Before beginning any formal training program, we must prove the system is reliable and effective. Perhaps we should include comparison with the training effectiveness of existing phaco surgical simulators though comparison may be difficult.
I should also note that Help Me See training includes a cognitive development component (courseware) as well as the simulator. The simulator is being designed to measure performance of multiple surgical parameters and will also be fully integrated with a sophisticated, computer based, instructor led training program. We have successfully completed the first tryouts of the courseware components using college level ESL students. Since this training is intended for eye surgeons from developing countries, we have had to address the challenge of designing this training program for those who may not have college level English skills.
I appreciate any comments about the project. I realize there is much work to be done but I hope it will result in an excellent product that serves the ophthalmology community and the needlessly blind in the years to come.
The priority for the prototype development has been to test the limits of current and evolving technologies for real time micro surgical interactions. From a surgeon's point of view, it is quite incredible to experience the live surgical feel in virtual reality (VR). But more importantly from the training point of view, we hope to demonstrate how surgical skills training can be done with high efficiency and quality using only VR. Based on the lessons learned during prototype development, we expect to select our vendors for the full project.
For now, the simulator doesn't look very pretty and our testing is limited to subjective and objective measurements using a few experienced MSICS surgeons. As full simulator development progresses (including the components that will create the illusion of being in the operating theater), we are also developing the plans for full validation studies. Before beginning any formal training program, we must prove the system is reliable and effective. Perhaps we should include comparison with the training effectiveness of existing phaco surgical simulators though comparison may be difficult.
I should also note that Help Me See training includes a cognitive development component (courseware) as well as the simulator. The simulator is being designed to measure performance of multiple surgical parameters and will also be fully integrated with a sophisticated, computer based, instructor led training program. We have successfully completed the first tryouts of the courseware components using college level ESL students. Since this training is intended for eye surgeons from developing countries, we have had to address the challenge of designing this training program for those who may not have college level English skills.
I appreciate any comments about the project. I realize there is much work to be done but I hope it will result in an excellent product that serves the ophthalmology community and the needlessly blind in the years to come.
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