Evaluation of medical student performance and satisfaction of simulator-based direct ophthalmoscopy training using a new refractive adjustment fundoscopic examination simulator—ICEyeModel: a comparative randomised crossover study

Abstract

Background: The use of simulators for ophthalmology training is growing globally. However, all developed simulators have certain limits based on different circumstances. The study aims to evaluate training performance and student satisfaction of the new refractive adjustment simulator "ICEyeModel" compared with a traditional simulator for direct ophthalmoscopy training among medical students. Methods: This constitutes a comparative, randomised, cross-over study. Our study enrolled 50 participants from a 6-year medical student training programme at Phramongkutklao Hospital. They underwent a refresher lecture on primary direct ophthalmoscopy use and a short course review of common retinal diseases. They were randomised into two training sequence groups: Training sequence 1 started with a traditional film photograph simulator called Eye Retinopathy Trainer (developed by Adam, Rouilly Co., Sittingbourne, UK) followed by the ICEyeModel. Training Sequence 2 started with the ICEyeModel, followed by a traditional simulator. Participants in both groups completed the fundoscopic description tests and satisfaction questionnaires immediately following each simulator training session. Results: On an 18-point prospective rubrics scale, medical students trained with ICEyeModel achieved significantly higher fundoscopic examination scores (14.42 ± 2.34) compared to those trained with traditional simulators (11.30 ± 2.64), with p < 0.001. For the ICEyeModel, 86% of the participants can correctly adjust the direct ophthalmoscope power match to the refractive state of the trial lens placed in the simulator. The ICEyeModel has a higher satisfaction score regarding picture quality, enhancing motivation and confidence than a traditional simulator. Conclusion: In comparison with the Eye Retinopathy Trainer, the ICEyeModel significantly enhanced performance with increased satisfaction and self-confidence in simulated direct ophthalmoscopy training. Although these improvements were observed in a simulation setting and do not necessarily translate to superior performance in patient examinations, our findings suggest that the ICEyeModel may offer a promising alternative for training with direct ophthalmoscopes, indirect ophthalmoscopes, and retinoscopes in clinical settings.