60 EyeWorld Asia-Pacific | March 2025 NEWS & OPINION Improving Learning And Reducing Surgical Time AI-powered video applications offer more than just convenience. These systems can categorize videos into different surgical phases (e.g., capsulorhexis, hydrodissection, phacoemulsification), which allows users to focus on particular steps of a procedure. By comparing their own techniques with those of experienced surgeons, trainees can identify inefficiencies and adopt best practices to improve their speed and precision, ultimately reducing surgical time. A study conducted at Nethradhama Super Specialty Eye Hospital in Bangalore, India, evaluated the impact of the Zeiss Surgery Optimiser tool on cataract surgery training. Six cataract fellows participated—three had access to the AI-driven video app, and three did not. Over three months, each fellow performed 30 surgeries, with various metrics assessed, including total surgical time, duration of specific steps (e.g. capsulorhexis, hydrodissection, phacoemulsification), and Objective Structured Assessment of Cataract Surgical Skills (OSCAR) scores. The fellows who used the AI-powered app showed significant improvements across all measured metrics. Their total surgical time decreased, and their OSCAR scores increased from an average of 70 to 98. Additionally, their phacoemulsification time was notably reduced. In contrast, the fellows without access to the app showed slower improvements and had a higher complication rate (15.6% vs. 11.1%). This evidence underscores the efficacy of AI tools in accelerating skill development. By providing trainees with immediate, structured feedback, AI technologies helped them hone their skills more rapidly, resulting in faster, more consistent surgical outcomes. Furthermore, these tools ease the workload for trainers, allowing them to focus on targeted instruction rather than repeating basic lessons. Broader Benefits For Trainers, Trainees, And Patients AI-powered tools not only enhance the learning experience but also benefit trainers and patients. For trainers, these technologies reduce the time spent re-explaining common procedures, enabling them to concentrate on more personalized guidance. This shift results in quicker skill development for trainees and greater confidence in the operating room, with less risk of complications. For patients, the implications are equally important. With improved surgical techniques, reduced complications, and faster procedures, patient outcomes are enhanced, leading to higher satisfaction and better care overall. The role of AI in ophthalmic surgery education also extends beyond the operating room. By providing objective data and analysis, AI helps ensure that surgical performance is consistently evaluated, which is vital for long-term improvements. Furthermore, AI’s ability to track progress over time helps identify areas where additional training or practice may be needed, promoting continuous learning and skill refinement. Conclusion The integration of digital tools into ophthalmic surgical education is transforming the way trainees learn and refine their skills. AI-powered video applications have made it easier for surgeons to review and analyze procedures, enabling them to improve their techniques and reduce surgical time. These tools also provide personalized feedback, allowing trainees to target specific areas for improvement and gain proficiency more rapidly. The future holds promise for this application when applied to refractive surgery, followed by cornea, retina and glaucoma surgeries. As these technologies become more widespread, they will likely play an even more significant role in surgical training programs. They not only support skill development but also enhance patient care by improving surgical outcomes and reducing complications. Ultimately, AI-driven tools are helping to create a new generation of more confident, skilled surgeons, capable of delivering high-quality care in less time. About the Physician Sri Ganesh, MD | Nethradhama Superspeciality Eye Hospital, 256/14, Kanakapura Main Road, Jayanagar, Bangalore, India | phacomaverick@gmail.com Relevant Disclosures Ganesh: Carl Zeiss Meditech Comparison between young surgeon’s case and expert’s case. Source: Sri Ganesh, MD The AI feature splits the surgery into different phases with time stamps. Source: Sri Ganesh, MD
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