High Volume Cataract Lists For Surgical Training – Experience From An Nhs Hospital In The Uk

In recent years, the opportunities for UK ophthalmology trainees to be trained in cataract surgery has steadily declined, partly due to the reduced clinical activities during the COVID pandemic, but also impacted by the expanding independent sector cataract services.  Traditionally, trainees were mostly kept away from high volume surgical lists, as these were deemed unsuitable for training due to time constraints, which is a huge loss of opportunity.  We wish to demonstrate the feasibility of delivering regular, high quality surgical training during high volume cataract lists in an NHS hospital.

Stoke Mandeville Hospital, Aylesbury, United Kingdom.

A retrospective audit was undertaken to review the number of cataract cases completed by trainees since the start of high-volume cataract training lists and compared to the national average figures. 

In 2021, the mean number of cataract cases completed by trainees in the third year of training (ST3) nationally was 110, and for those in the 6^th year of training (ST6) the mean total case number was 459.  In our local unit, high volume training lists (average 8 cases per list) commenced in August 2020, and most lists are attended by a trainee.  During the audited period, trainees completed 5757 cataract cases, which is 25.8% of the total number of cataract surgeries (22, 295 cases).  Individual trainees are achieving up to 308 cataract cases in one year, including junior trainees (ST3 or below).  In addition, due to the robust and high volume of training, many trainees are able to perform low complexity cataract lists independently.

Our experience demonstrates that good quality training during high volume cataract lists are entirely feasible, without any compromise on service delivery.