Cataract surgical training: Analysis of the results of the European Board of Ophthalmology survey in the Swiss cohort.

Abstract

Introduction: This study, part of a series, analyses the Swiss cohort from an EBO survey on cataract surgery training in Europe, focusing on Switzerland's unique program. The survey identifies two models: training all residents in surgery, and a "high-volume surgeon" model where only some learn CS post-residency.

Methods: This study analyses the survey results of Swiss participants in the EBO examinations (2018-2022) and compared them with the most important cohorts (Germany, France and Spain).

Results: Out of 251 respondents, 87 (34.7%) answered the questionnaire. Most (70.1%) had taken the EBO exam between 2021-2022, with the majority of study participants being men (55.2%) with a median age of 34 years and came from 12 different cantons. Two third (68.8%) of respondents had not performed any steps of cataract surgery on patients during their residency. Notably, 22.1% stated that they had carried out 10 or more training sessions on virtual reality simulator, 5.8% on synthetic eyes and 21% on animal eyes. A notable discrepancy was observed between participants with 10 or more training sessions and those without specific training in four key areas: self-assessed confidence and ability to perform cataract surgery (p = 0.006), management of challenging cases (p = 0.027), handling complications like posterior capsular tear (p = 0.031) and in performing corneal sutures (p = 0.023).

Discussion: Switzerland fits into the "high-volume surgeon" model group; extensive simulation-based training there significantly boosts self-confidence in performing CS, an effect less noticeable in countries offering hands-on training during residency.