Vitreoretinal wet-lab simulation course

This brand new two-day vitreoretinal (VR) wet-lab course provides structured, hands-on training in core VR surgical skills using high-fidelity simulation models. It is designed for ophthalmology trainees and early fellows who want to develop practical competence in basic VR techniques in a safe, supervised environment.

The course offers hands-on experience in a highly realistic vitreoretinal wet-lab environment. You will practise 23G/25G trocar placement, setting up irrigation, and confident use of the BIOM, progressing to core vitrectomy simulation, intraocular foreign body (IOFB) removal, and epiretinal membrane (ERM) peeling. Mastering these steps will improve your confidence, efficiency, and operative flow in theatre.

Teaching is delivered by experienced VR consultant faculty with support from VR fellows, with a strong focus on coached skills progression and individual feedback. Participants will gain confidence with key steps and instrumentation used in routine VR surgery.

Alongside the wet-lab sessions, you will attend a parallel lecture programme delivered by world-leading vitreoretinal consultants at Moorfields Eye Hospital, covering key topics across modern vitreoretinal surgery.

See a snippet of this wet-lab simulation by watching the two short videos below:

Realistic core vitrectomy

Epiretinal membrane peel

Aims

• To provide a safe, structured introduction to basic vitreoretinal surgical techniques using high-fidelity simulation.
• To improve participant confidence and practical skills in core VR procedures and instrumentation.
• To support progression from theoretical knowledge to supervised operating with a focus on patient safety.
• To deliver expert faculty-led coaching with high-quality feedback and clear learning objectives.
• To strengthen readiness for VR training posts and theatre-based learning opportunities.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Describe the set-up and safe use of essential VR surgical equipment and instrumentation.
• Demonstrate improved technical handling skills for basic VR surgical tasks on simulation models.
• Apply stepwise approaches to common core VR procedures, including safe tissue handling and operative workflow.
• Build an effective knowledge base for vitreoretinal pathologies through engagement with the structured course lectures.
• Reflect on performance using structured faculty feedback to support an individual development plan.

Course Organiser

Mr Ben Kirkpatrick, Consultant, Moorfields Eye Hospital.

Who is this course for?

Suitable for ophthalmology trainees and early fellows.

Accreditation

A certificate of attendance will be awarded at the end of the study day and CPD points will be applied for.

Join the waiting list

This course will open for booking shortly. To register your interest and be notified when bookings open, please join the waiting list below.

Course supporters

The equipment for this course is kindly provided by Dorc and Ziess.