The American Academy of Ophthalmology has joined forces with immersive surgical training company FundamentalVR to create an educational program utilizing virtual reality. The AAO's VR Education will transform ophthalmic education and surgical training by offering "a free and open simulation platform for ophthalmologists and trainees around the world to expand their skill in diagnosing and treating eye diseases and conditions," said the AAO in a press release. Additionally, detailed analytics will provide personalized feedback to further help refine the individual's skills.

The first phase of VR Education focuses on pediatric ophthalmology, specifically, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Though it's the leading cause of preventable blindness in children globally, the opportunity for ophthalmic trainees to learn how to examine and treat babies with ROP is limited, particularly outside the United States, the AAO says, as many countries allow residents to perform only a limited number of procedures in children.

The VR simulator allows practitioners to diagnose and treat ROP from anywhere in the world using techniques including indirect ophthalmoscopy, laser therapy and intravitreal injections in an immersive virtual environment. The simulator offers both independent practice and multi-user guided instruction for trainees at all levels. For those who do not have a BR headset, a desktop version of the ROP simulator will be available later this year, the AAO said.

The program will expand to include modules addressing other key areas of pediatric ophthalmology. VREducation is supported by a $5 million grant from Knights Templar Eye Foundation.