Creating Cadaveric Models for Training in Ocular Ultrasonography

Introduction

The purpose of this paper is to create a cadaveric model which can be utilized in the training and practice of ocular ultrasonography. Ultrasonography has become a mainstay in diagnostic medicine due to its versatility and availability. One use of this modality is the rapid, non-invasive detection of acute intraocular pathologies such as retinal detachment. A retinal detachment is the pathologic separation of the retina from underlying structures. During this period of separation, the retina is devoid of oxygen and nutrition which may subject the eye to permanent visual loss. There are many ocular offenses which lead to detachment including diabetic retinopathy and trauma. In all cases, this disorder requires rapid diagnosis and treatment for best long-term vision.

Methods

To create the retinal detachment model, a lateral canthotomy and sclerotomy is performed to access the choroid and retinal layers in the posterior pole of the eye. A normal saline solution is then injected with a micropipette into the subretinal space, causing the retina to detach.

Results

We hypothesize that this model will be an effective tool in teaching ocular ultrasonography to healthcare professionals due to the simplicity of the procedure and availability of cadavers in academic settings such as medical schools.

Conclusion

Ocular ultrasonography has been recognized as a reliable tool in the diagnosis of retinal detachments with improvement in overall prognosis. Large groups of healthcare professionals trained in ocular ultrasonography will mitigate permanent visual loss in underserved populations through expedited time to diagnosis.