Effect of virtual reality simulation training on real-life cataract surgery complications: systematic literature review

Virtual reality simulation (VRS) has become progressively popular as a training tool in ophthalmology. However, debate continues as to whether VRS has resulted in better outcomes for patients after cataract surgery. Accordingly, a qualitative systematic literature review was conducted to identify whether VRS training results in a reduced complication rate after real-life cataract surgery. Included studies measured the effect of VRS on real-life patient outcomes after cataract surgery. Databases searched included MEDLINE (Ovid), The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PubMed, and CINAHL. A total of 1917 studies were identified, of which 10 studies were included, spanning from 2011 to 2020. The studies comprised 471 ophthalmological residents, with their complication rates assessed after 30462 cataract surgery procedures. This systematic literature review indicates that VRS seems to be most helpful in reducing the rate of posterior capsular rupture or errant curvilinear capsulorrhexis and had limited evidence in reducing the rate of other complications. J Cataract Refract Surg 2021; 47:400-406 Copyright (c) 2020 Published by Wolters Kluwer on behalf of ASCRS and ESCRS

Automated summary

A qualitative systematic literature review found that virtual reality simulation appears to be most helpful in reducing the rate of posterior capsular rupture or errant curvilinear capsulorrhexis after cataract surgery, with limited evidence in reducing the rate of other complications.