HelpMeSee, a global campaign to end cataract blindness, is pioneering a virtual reality surgical simulator and training programme for cataract surgeons. This programme is adapted from simulator-based aviation programme.

The HelpMeSee Inc is set to inaugurate its learning and development centre in Mumbai later this month where 4 simulators are being installed.

Surgeons will be trained through a 400 hour course that is expected to cost between 10,000 to 12,000 dollars, according to Jacob Mohan Thazhathu, President & CEO, HelpMeSee Inc.

Jacob says that Ophthalmic surgeons need two critical skills — a steady hand and depth perception to figure out how to handle the tissues that keep forming and reforming when an eye surgery is being performed. These two skills are today acquired only by a process of trial and error on live patients, he said.

By bringing in simulator based training, the skill sets of the surgeons are greatly enhanced and the potential costs in terms of damaging the patient inadvertently and then facing legal suits are significantly reduced.

There are nearly 15 million cataract blind persons in India, Jacob Mohan said.

An India advisory board has been set up with business leaders such as Ranjit Shahani, Pradip Shah and celebrities such as Hema Malini and Kapil Dev among others.

Two benefit concerts are also to be held later this month in Mumbai and Delhi to raise awareness and funds for helping perform cataract surgeries in backward parts of India.

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