3014: New resident’s third phaco case
The new generation of ophthalmology residents is accelerating down the learning curve faster than ever before, driven by an unprecedented ecosystem of surgical education. Through the combination of high-yield surgical video libraries like CataractCoach, hands-on wet lab training, and high-fidelity surgical simulators, today’s trainees can mentally and tactilely rehearse every step of phacoemulsification before stepping into the operating room. This video showcases a resident performing only the third cataract procedure of the career, delivering an exceptionally smooth, well-controlled performance that reflects a tremendous amount of deliberate preparation ahead of time. From sculpt depth to tissue manipulation, seeing this level of execution so early in training proves how modern educational tools empower young surgeons to build muscle memory and spatial awareness rapidly.
Watch the video to see this impressive third case in action—and notice how a quick adjustment to microscope focus optimizes visualization throughout nuclear sculpting. Senior surgeons and educators, how has the integration of surgical video and simulation changed your expectations for early-career residents in the OR? Please comment your thoughts below.
