About SEE Courses and Trainings

Because developing countries often lack the infrastructure needed for widespread use of sophisticated medical equipment, surgeons primarily use manual procedures to remove cataracts. SEE International uses the Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) procedure, which allows doctors to perform surgeries with much smaller incisions than would otherwise be possible. These incisions are also self-sealing, making sutures unnecessary. SEE International’s surgeons, or SEE Docs, can thus perform twice as many surgeries in the same amount of time as older methods. In addition, patients typically show greater improvement in vision and shorter healing periods with MSICS than with other manual procedures.

As part of SEE International’s ongoing commitment to patient care and  its volunteer ophthalmologists, SEE International has trained ophthalmologists in the technique since 2006, through a one-day course and wet lab held one to two times a year at the SEE offices in Santa Barbara. The course is specifically designed for practicing ophthalmologists planning to use the technique on one of SEE International’s expeditions.  “I continually update the procedure always improving the techniques for greater ease and better results,” says Dr. Jeff Rutgard, an MSICS instructor.

Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) Course

Since 2006, SEE International has been offering its volunteers an opportunity to improve their skills in the manual methods of cataract removal by organizing a Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) training course and wet lab at its headquarters in Santa Barbara, California. Taught by experienced faculty, the course is specifically designed for the practicing ophthalmologists who plan on using the technique on one of our expeditions.

MSICS is the optimal method for removing cataracts during most SEE expeditions. The acute cataract cases that our ophthalmologists face in developing countries are not easily addressed by modern methods, which rely on sophisticated, expensive and difficult-to-transport equipment rarely available at our clinics. And, compared to other manual procedures, MSICS allows for faster patient turnover, reduced potential for complications and better visual results.

SEE International also offers MSICS training opportunities for our volunteers who are interested in learning the technique directly in the field and apply it by performing actual surgeries under faculty supervision. Through our cooperation with Vision Outreach International, SEE International Volunteers can sign up for such programs around the world. Or, they can explore similar opportunities offered in Kolkata, India with Dr. Bikas Bhattacharya.

Upcoming Courses

SEE International will be offering MSICS courses throughout the year 2017, both internationally and domestically in the U.S. Please direct all questions about MSICS courses to Rachel Siegel at rsiegel@seeintl.org.