Reticle eyepiece improves surgical video quality
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Regularly recording and reviewing surgical videos rank among the most important tools for improving skills, refining techniques and diagnosing postoperative problems.
However, inconsistent video quality may substantially diminish these benefits. One common cause of poor video capture is suboptimal camera centration. Because the surgeon’s field of view exceeds the recorded image, relevant events may be poorly captured peripherally, or “off screen,” and therefore unsaved. Remembering to keep the microscope centered is frequently forgotten, especially during difficult maneuvers. Consequently, the most complex and challenging operations often feature the worst recordings.
Source: Brooke Stansel, Cole Richardson, DO, Robert E. Morris, MD, and Jack S. Parker, MD, PhD
Although nearly all surgeons are aware of this problem, few realize that a solution already exists, at least for modern Zeiss operating microscopes. Specifically, either of the default left or right eyepieces may be exchanged for one outfitted with a reticle — that is, a series of lines used for measuring scale or locating objects (Figure 1). These reticle eyepieces are offered in a variety of styles, directly from Zeiss, and may be installed with no technical knowledge and minimal effort.
With one eyepiece swapped for a reticle model on the side shared with the camera beam splitter, the surgeon’s view is enhanced with inconspicuous yet unmistakable reference marks, providing continuous feedback regarding image centration, as seen by the video recording system. Consequently, improved centration is quickly achieved without conscious effort. Aside from the inclusion of reticle lines, these alternate eyepieces are otherwise identical to the default versions in appearance and function, and the lines themselves are unobtrusive and function intuitively.
While our personal experience is limited to Zeiss microscopes, other companies likely offer similar products. We have been unable to find descriptions of the use of reticle eyepieces for ophthalmic procedures in the scientific literature; nevertheless, they have improved our own videos tremendously, and we suspect other surgeons may similarly benefit.
- For more information:
- Robert E. Morris, MD, of Retina Specialists of Alabama in Birmingham, Alabama, can be reached at rmorris@rmeyes.com.
- Jack S. Parker, MD, PhD, of Parker Cornea in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, can be reached at jack.parker@gmail.com.
- Cole Richardson, DO, of Retina Specialists of Alabama in Birmingham, Alabama, can be reached at colerichardson22@gmail.com.
- Brooke Stansel of Parker Cornea in Vestavia Hills, Alabama, can be reached at brookestansel@yahoo.com.
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