Cataracts, which form as cloudy patches on the lens of the eye, are among the leading causes of blindness worldwide. This is despite being one of the most easily treatable conditions. According to the World Health Organisation, this disparity arises due to a significant shortage of ophthalmologists, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Many people are left with preventable visual impairments due to the lack of access to eye specialists.
In response to this challenge, Orbis and FundamentalVR have introduced an immersive training simulator aimed at boosting the number of eye surgeons in regions where this shortage is most acute. The simulator, designed to support medical students training in ophthalmic surgery, focuses on cataract procedures, providing a valuable tool for skill development.
To ensure a realistic and safe training environment, the system uses a combination of virtual reality and haptic feedback, replicating the sensation of working with human tissue. It also incorporates cloud-based assessment data and operates on affordable, widely available gaming hardware. Already in use, the programme is helping train new surgeons in hospitals across Ethiopia, Bangladesh, India, China, and Mongolia.
In summary, this cutting-edge VR technology is paving the way for more widespread and accessible training in eye surgery, which could make a significant difference in addressing the global shortage of eye doctors and reducing preventable blindness.
