Evaluation of the learning curve of laser peripheral iridectomy: the 20th case reaches the turning point.

AIM: To explore the learning curve for ophthalmologists at the start of laser peripheral iridectomy (LPI) training.

METHODS

The learning curve of 4 doctor groups without previous LPI experience was studied. Three main parameters of LPI were reviewed: total energy, argon energy and neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) energy. Procedures were evaluated in cohorts of 20 cases to identify the turning points of the three variables.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in terms of age or eye among the 4 doctor groups. There were stable trends on the learning curve for the Doctor A and C groups regarding total energy and argon energy. In addition, the turning points on the learning curve were determined after the 20th procedure for the Doctor B and D groups regarding total energy and argon energy. Moreover, the Nd:YAG energy was relatively stable since the first procedure.

CONCLUSION

It requires approximately 20 procedures for a beginner to reach a turning point on the learning curve regarding LPI. It can serve as a point of reference or guideline for training beginners to perform LPI.