Advancing Ophthalmic Training
Place: Panajachel, Guatemala
Mission Date: 31 October - 2 November, 2024
In the lakeside town of Panajachel, Guatemala, a group of ophthalmologists, residents, and medical professionals gathered for an intensive three-day wet lab training – an opportunity that felt like a turning point for many in their careers. Organized by GES medical director, Dr. Todd Jackson, in collaboration with Oertli, Mohave Eye Center, and Prestige Láser and Cataract Institute, the training aimed to bridge a critical gap in cataract surgery education.
Phacoemulsification – the gold standard for cataract surgery – is often not a routine part of residencies in Central America. Many young doctors complete their training without ever performing the procedure themselves. To address this, we designed a hands-on program led by Dr. Todd Jackson, along with Dr. Julio De Leon, Dr. Vicky Loza, and Jordan Christensen. Over 12 hours of immersive learning, participants worked with cutting-edge phaco machines, microscopes, and surgical models, gaining skills that could redefine their medical practice.
For Dr. Anali Vasquez, a fellow from Honduras, the experience was more than just technical training – it was a moment of professional clarity. She shared:
“Since I’m currently training with multiple cataract cases, it was crucial to clarify doubts and receive guidance on overcoming challenges. Learning from skilled surgeons has motivated me to improve every day.”
Many participants echoed her sentiment, describing a newfound confidence that would carry over into their real-world surgeries.
The impact of this training reaches far beyond the operating room. Over the next five years, an estimated 1,600 patients will benefit from the enhanced skills of these surgeons. In regions where phacoemulsification is still a rarity, mastering this technique not only improves patient care but also offers young ophthalmologists a sustainable income, allowing them to serve both private-paying and low-income patients.
The initiative also gained strong backing from Guatemala’s ophthalmology community. Local doctors contributed supplies, while three Guatemalan ophthalmologists also participated in the training. In a major step toward long-term impact, Dr. Julio De Leon was provided with essential equipment to establish a permanent wet lab station in Guatemala, ensuring future generations of surgeons have access to ongoing training.
Of course, no ambitious project comes without challenges. Issues with artificial eye models, pig corneas, and AV equipment tested the team’s adaptability. But quick problem-solving and creative adjustments, such as using a simple wax paper model for capsulotomy training, helped refine the experience. Looking ahead, organizers are already planning improvements for next year, including better models, a vitrectomy station, and additional didactic sessions.
For many participants, the most significant takeaway was the value of hands-on practice.
“I always wanted to learn phacoemulsification but never took the time. Now, I feel more confident knowing this skill will benefit my patients,” one resident reflected.
GES and its partners remain committed to strengthening the program’s sustainability. By improving training tools, fine-tuning costs, and fostering ongoing mentorship, we aim to make the Guatemala wet lab more than just an annual event – it’s becoming a catalyst for lasting change in ophthalmic care across the region.
Through support from you and our partners, these initiatives can achieve consistent, lasting impact! Head over to our Give page to make a contribution of any amount to support programs like this. Your generosity is always greatly appreciated.