The Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital in Montreal is breaking new ground by livestreaming intricate eye surgeries for medical trainees to witness firsthand.
At the Angus Centre for outpatient ophthalmic surgery, Dr. Flavio Rezende recently conducted a series of retinal surgeries, with each procedure broadcast live to an observation room in the city center. The hospital aims to establish itself as a global leader in this innovative approach to medical training.
Medical professionals from around the world attending the American Society of Retina Specialists congress had the opportunity to watch Rezende’s surgeries in real time. By showcasing a range of surgical cases, Rezende provided a comprehensive view of different techniques, allowing viewers to grasp the intricate decision-making process involved.
Dr. Fares Antaki, a vitreoretinal surgeon, emphasized the value of observing surgeries live, as it offers insight into the surgeon’s mindset and allows for immediate discussions and learning opportunities. The livestream event, meticulously planned over four years, required advanced cameras and a robust internet connection to ensure seamless transmission.
Specializing in microscopic retinal surgeries using cutting-edge technology, the Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital employs a small tube with an embedded camera to navigate opaque corneas, enabling surgeons to perform delicate procedures with precision.
Dr. Cynthia Qian highlighted the significance of witnessing authentic surgeries as opposed to staged demonstrations commonly seen at conferences, noting the educational benefits of real-time experiences. Dr. Bruna Gil Ferreira echoed this sentiment, underlining the importance of learning from complex, real-life scenarios to better prepare medical professionals for diverse clinical challenges.
By live-streaming surgeries to a separate room, the hospital can accommodate a larger audience and provide in-depth educational opportunities. Dr. Rezende also hopes that these livestream sessions will help combat misinformation on social media by offering high-quality, verified surgical content.
