Rate of Posterior Capsule Rupture in Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery by Residents with Institution of a Wet Laboratory Course

Purpose To determine if a structured surgical wet laboratory curriculum for ophthalmology residents reduced the rate of posterior capsule rupture (PCR) in phacoemulsification cataract surgery. Setting James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, FL. Design Retrospective cohort study. Methods The study assessed resident-performed phacoemulsification cataract cases from 2011 to 2017, after the creation of a wet laboratory course. Primary outcome measure was PCR. If present, timing of complication, dropped lens fragments, and the need for anterior vitrectomies were noted. Self-reported rates of PCR prior to institution of a wet laboratory course (2010–2011) were compared with cases done by residents who completed the course (2011–2017). Results A total of 3,445 cases were reviewed of which 2.44% (84 cases) noted PCR. Of these, 19% (16) had dropped lens fragments, and 60.7% (51) required anterior vitrectomy. Sixty-nine cases documented timing of PCR with the majority, 58%, occurring during phacoemulsification. When comparing rates of PCR in cases done prior to the presence of a wet laboratory course versus after, there was a significant reduction observed (5.20% before vs. 2.44% after). Conclusion In the presence of a wet laboratory curriculum, the rate of PCR decreased dramatically. The average rate was lower than those reported at other training programs (2.6–9.9%). Most PCR occurred during phacoemulsification, suggesting need for further focused instruction in this step.