Returning to cataract surgery after a hiatus: a UK survey report

OBJECTIVES: Cataract surgeons may periodically take time away from operating which can lead to skills fade. There is a paucity of research investigating the experiences of returning cataract surgeons and how different individual circumstances impact on their return. Our aim was to investigate the subjective experiences of UK ophthalmologists simultaneously returning to surgery following the nationwide elective surgical hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic. METHODS: An online survey was nationally distributed between 01/09/2020 and 29/10/2020 to registered UK ophthalmologists. Participants indicating a surgical hiatus of 8 weeks or more were included. RESULTS: 232 of 264 responses were analysed. Covid-19 was the most frequent reason for a surgical hiatus (median 15 weeks). Perceived operating difficulties were found in 29.1%. Transient anxiety (51.7%), reduced confidence, and perceived increased surgical time were commonplace. Trainees and females were more likely to encounter negative experiences (p < 0.001) and barriers to resource accessibility. Eyesi(®) and online videos were the most available and accessed pre-return resources. Childcare was five times more likely to present as a barrier to resource access for females than males. CONCLUSIONS: Technical skills fade such as capsulorhexis difficulties were commonly perceived by trainee surgeons in addition to transient anxiety, reported in more than half of all surgeons following a hiatus as short as 8 weeks. Eyesi(®) simulation offers the potential to negate technical de-skilling. Few had formal return plans or awareness of RCOphth guidance. We believe there is scope for more specialised and targeted support for future returning cataract surgeons thereby optimising patient care.