Introduction to Cataract Surgery

About this course: This comprehensive course will give you the fundamental knowledge needed to begin performing cataract surgery by phacoemulsification and extracapsular removal. Each step from preoperative evaluation to postoperative care will be covered to help prepare you for the operating room.

Created by:  University of Michigan

• Taught by:  Elizabeth Du, M.D., Clinical Assistant Professor

  Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Kellogg Eye Center

Level Advanced Language English How To Pass Pass all graded assignments to complete the course. User Ratings 4.6 stars Average User Rating 4.6See what learners said Coursework

Each course is like an interactive textbook, featuring pre-recorded videos, quizzes and projects.

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Syllabus


WEEK 1


Unit 1: Prior to the Operating Room



This unit describes what needs to take place prior to getting the patient to the operating room. Although this unit may seem trivial, knowing when to make the decision to do surgery, having a good informed consent discussion, selecting an intraocular lens and anesthetic type are critical to a successful surgery and happy patient.


5 videos, 3 readings expand

1. Reading: Course Expectations
2. Reading: Help us learn more about you!
3. Reading: READ: Unit 1 - Prior to the Operating Room
4. Video: 01.01 - Preoperative Evaluation
5. Video: 01.02 - Refractive goals
6. Video: 01.03 - How to Choose an Intraocular Lens: Part 1
7. Video: 01.04 - How to Choose an Intraocular Lens: Part 2
8. Video: 01.05 - Perioperative Medications
9. Discussion Prompt: Unit 1 Discussion

Graded: PRE-TEST
Graded: Unit 1 Content Quiz

WEEK 2


Unit 2: In the Operating Room and Getting to the Cataract



This unit begins in the operating room after the patient is prepped and draped. It covers each step needed for you to access the lens. Once you begin operating, you will realize that each step of surgery has a domino effect. If the beginning steps are not done skillfully, it will make the rest of the case more difficult.


6 videos, 1 reading expand

1. Reading: READ: Unit 2 - In the Operating Room and Getting to the Cataract
2. Video: 02.01 - Surg-onomics
3. Video: 02.02 - Anesthesia
4. Video: 02.03 - Wound Construction
5. Video: 02.04 - Viscoelastics
6. Video: 02.05 - Capsulorhexis
7. Video: 02.06 - Hydrodissection and Hydrodelineation
8. Discussion Prompt: Unit 2 Discussion

Graded: Unit 2 Content Quiz

WEEK 3


Unit 3: Removing the Cataract and Intraocular Lens Placement



This unit is where all the fun begins. The lectures cover lens and cortex removal. We also discuss intraocular lenses and their insertion into the eye. While lens removal is the most critical step of surgery, it is also where the most serious complications occur, so pay attention!


7 videos, 1 reading expand

1. Reading: READ: Unit 3 - Removing the Cataract and Intraocular Lens Placement
2. Video: 03.01 - Phacodynamics
3. Video: 03.02 - Phacoemulsification Techniques: Divide & Conquer and Phaco Chop
4. Video: 03.03 - Irrigation and Aspiration
5. Video: 03.04 - IOL Materials and Design
6. Video: 03.05 - Single Piece IOL loading and insertion
7. Video: 03.06 - 3-Piece IOL Loading and Insertion
8. Video: 03.07 - How to Insert an Anterior Chamber Lens Implant
9. Discussion Prompt: Unit 3 Discussion

Graded: Unit 3 Content Quiz

WEEK 4


Unit 4: Cataract Complications and Extras



This unit covers some additional tools and strategies you will need to manage complications and difficult cataracts. Just like every person isn’t the same, neither is every cataract. Fortunately, we have many tips and tricks that will help you succeed no matter what type of cataract you tackle.


6 videos, 2 readings expand

1. Reading: READ: Unit 4 - Cataract Complications and Extras
2. Video: 04.01 - Capsule Complications
3. Video: 04.02 - Conversion to Extracapsular Cataract Extraction
4. Video: 04.03 - Capsular Tension Rings (13:07)
5. Video: 04.04 - Small Pupil (14:00)
6. Video: 04.05 - Astigmatism management in Cataract Surgery
7. Video: 04.06 - Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery
8. Discussion Prompt: Unit 4 Discussion
9. Reading: Post-course Survey

Graded: Unit 4 Content Quiz
Graded: POST-TEST