Expanding surgical training access: A phacoemulsification course via Orbis Cybersight

Abstract

Purpose

To highlight the potential of openly accessible online surgical courses in strengthening global ophthalmic education. We demonstrate a case study focusing on a basic phacoemulsification training course published on Orbis Cybersight, designed to support early surgical learning for ophthalmologists worldwide.

Methods

We developed a one-hour, self-paced online course on the basics of phacoemulsification, split into six narrated modules: Incisions, Capsulorhexis, Hydrodissection, Nucleus Removal, Cortex Removal, and IOL Insertion & Wound Closure. We included quizzes for self-testing in every module. We published the course on Orbis Cybersight, a global telemedicine and training platform, and made it freely available on demand. We analyzed engagement patterns and gathered informal feedback from trainees and educators across different regions.

Results

The course was accessed by over 5,000 participants based in 162 countries across all seven continents, including Antarctica, working in diverse high-, middle-, and low-income settings. Most participants were ophthalmologists (2,238; 44.4 %), ophthalmology residents (837; 16.6 %), and optometrists (484; 9.6 %), while nearly 20 % (963) represented a variety of other professions, including drivers, teachers, medical students, and security guards. Approximately 1,340 participants (26.6 %) completed the course, while 2,709 (53.6 %) marked it as “in progress.” On average, participants made about five access attempts and spent a mean of 83.63 minutes to complete the course. The optional pre- and post-course quizzes showed a 39.5 % increase in participation and a 35 % relative increase in knowledge acquisition after completing the course.

Conclusions

Open-access platforms like Orbis Cybersight can play a key role in delivering foundational surgical education. These platforms help bridge gaps in training and promote equity in surgical education. They are impactful for sharing complex cases and essential foundational learning, without adding a financial burden for trainees globally. Our case study offers a scalable, low-cost way to help global trainees gain exposure to essential surgical steps and concepts.