Revisiting the Cataract Surgery Curriculum for Ophthalmology Residents: A Narrative Review

Purpose: To compare the educational model and complication rates of cataract surgery performed by ophthalmology residents in Iran with other countries and present suggestions for improvement Methods: We reviewed a number of studies that investigated the complications of cataract surgery in relation to curriculum modifications from 2009 to 2011. Review: Complication rates are higher in our country compared to others. In Iran, two studies in 2009 and 2011 reported high complication rates among residents. In the USA, the rate of Posterior capsular rupture (PCR) in resident-performed surgeries had a decreasing trend from 2001 to 2011, and the rate of Vitreous loss (VL) reached zero in 2011 after a substantial decrease in 2002 and small variations thereafter. The two Asian and European studies in 2006 and 2009 also reported lower complication rates than Iranian studies. Suggestion: Simulation and wet lab training, exposure to the operating room, providing a portfolio, research shifts, evidence-based discussions with experienced surgeons could improve knowledge and experience of Iranian residents.