EyeWorld India March 2019 Issue

39 March 2019 EWAP CATARACT / IOL Ergonomics of cataract surgery by Stefanie Petrou Binder, MD EyeWorld Contributing Writer Keep surgery flowing smoothly and avoid errors by checking, and checking again O phthalmic surgeons agree that highly efficient surgical teams consistently produce better outcomes. Organized team work is crucial for a smooth work flow and effective surgeries. Paul Rosen, MD, Oxford Eye Hospital, Oxford, U.K., discussed the ergonomics of cataract surgery at the 22nd ESCRS Winter Meeting, explaining that well-planned and executed cataract surgery not only gets the right results and provides a satisfying experience for the surgical team, but also improves the patient experience. “Ergonomic cataract surgery provides a calm and efficient atmosphere that relaxes the patient and inspires confidence,” Dr. Rosen said. “When the surgeon is relaxed, the surgical outcomes are likely to be better. Even if there are complications, the patient feels good about the way the surgery was organized and about the competence of the surgical team.” Patient outcomes and satisfaction are a top priority, however, well-organized surgeries are also more cost effective and maximize productivity. Three major components that improve efficiency include: surgery preparation and planning, the layout of the surgical facility, and performing efficient, effective, complication-free surgery. The perfect operating session should be effortless for everyone, with a surgical team that communicates seamlessly to ensure a smooth flow, fast but not rushed, stress-free, with safe, reliable, and reproducible care, much like a safe and efficient production line. Oxford care pathway The Oxford cataract care pathway itemizes each step of the cataract surgical procedure. The very first step into this pathway ensues from a proper referral from the family doctor or optometrist. Once referred for cataract surgery, the patient Three major components that improve efficiency are: surgery preparation and planning, the layout of the surgical facility, and performing efficient, effective, complication-free surgery. Source: Getty Images Continued on page 40