ESASO modules: a unique training model

The Cataract and Intraocular Refractive Surgery module held at the IMO allows students to interact with renowned experts and apply the skills they have acquired in the new wet lab
Módulo ESASO de catarata y cirugía refractiva intraocular 2015

Last May the Institute for Ocular Microsurgery (IMO) hosted the Cataract and Intraocular Refractive Surgery module of the ESASO (European School for Advanced Studies in Ophthalmology) coordinated by Dr. José Luis Güell. Over the course of a week (4 to 8 May), 20 students interested in venturing into this field received specialised training from leading international experts from Egypt, Russia and Hungary and IMO's own doctors.

The knowledge acquired in the morning theory sessions was put into practice each evening in the experimental surgery workshop conducted in the wet lab, which was expanded in April to include new units that, by offering state-of-the-art technology and individualised instruction, allow students to reproduce the procedures performed in the operating room with a high degree of precision.

As Dr. Güell explained, “This training model represents a unique opportunity to interact with the teaching staff and their classmates. Compared to more standard educational formats, ESASO's modules offer students the opportunity to establish closer, more long-term contacts and share experiences, doubts and questions, etcetera, over a period of five full days rather than just for a few hours”.

ESASO's modules provide students with the opportunity to establish closer, more long-term contacts by sharing experiences and expanding their knowledge over a period of five full days.

This is the key to the success of this ground-breaking European initiative that was given a significant boost in 2009 with the creation of the school and is rapidly expanding thanks to the collaboration of prestigious institutions and centres. “In this regard", Dr. Güell went on to say, "the role of IMO in the ESASO project is both direct and indirect. On the one hand our facilities are hosting the Cataract and Intraocular Refractive Surgery module, one of the most highly-rated modules, thanks to the quality of the equipment and staff, and, on the other hand, we are acting as coordinators for a range of modules being held in other countries”.

Así, el Dr. Borja Corcóstegui, the president of ESASO's Scientific Committee, heads the Retina module, Dr. Ramón Medel is responsible for the Oculoplastics module, and Dr. José Luis Güell himself oversees the Cornea and Corneal Refractive Surgery module.

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