Comparison of three-dimensional heads-up system versus traditional microscopic system in medical education for vitreoretinal surgeries: a prospective study

To compare the value and efficiency of the three-dimensional (3D) heads-up surgical system and traditional microscopic (TM) system in teaching and learning vitreoretinal surgeries. Twenty ophthalmologists and scrub nurses were recruited as teachers, and 45 junior ophthalmology residents and trainee doctors, trainee nurses, and medical students were recruited as observers. Each teacher and observer were assigned to both a 3D-assisted and TM-assisted vitreoretinal surgery and then asked to complete satisfaction questionnaires for both surgical systems at the end of each surgery. The 3D heads-up surgical system was rated significantly higher in most of the subscales and overall satisfaction score by both teachers and observers (P < 0.05). However, ratings for instrument adjustment were significantly higher in the TM group compared to the 3D group for junior ophthalmology residents and trainee doctors (6.1 ± 1.7 vs. 8.8 ± 1.1, P < 0.001). The 3D heads-up surgical system has great didactical value in the medical education of vitreoretinal surgeries, but it is important to consider the specific needs of different learners when choosing between the two systems. Not applicable.