HelpMeSee launches eBook for manual small incision cataract surgery

With a focus on helping ophthalmologist refine their skills for successful cataract surgery, HelpMeSee this week announced the release of an eBook on manual small incision cataract surgery (MSICS) that delivers an immersive learning experience through rich multimedia, live surgical demonstrations and a step-by-step guide to the surgical procedure.

According to a news release, HelpMeSee, a global non-profit, trains cataract specialists using virtual-reality, simulation-based training. The organization works to fight cataract blindness and visual impairment, which affects more than 100 million people worldwide.

“Rather than adapting content from an existing textbook, the HelpMeSee MSICS eBook has been distinctly designed to bring learning to life through live surgical demonstrations and rich multimedia," said Saro Jahani, president and CEO. "The innovation of the eBook lies in its powerful, interactive experience, which allows learners at all levels to master the material and gain expertise in cataract surgery.”

The organization noted in its news release that the eBook content is designed for residents, ophthalmologists, fellows, medical students and other professionals performing or supporting cataract surgery.

According to the release, the eBook is now available for purchase in the United States and the European Union and will be available in other parts of the world soon. It is accessible online or offline using any platform and device; including Windows or Mac OS, or apps in iOS and Android platforms. 

According to Stan Pletcher, MD, founder of Great Lakes Eye Care, the eBook can serve as a key resource.

“The depth of its multimedia and illustration makes it a powerful tool. With high-quality, detailed drawings, and intuitive navigation, I believe the eBook will inspire learners and build competency,” he said in a statement. “I applaud HelpMeSee's commitment to give back to the eyecare community."

According to Charles O. Bekibele, MD, a professor and consultant ophthalmologist at the University of Ibadan and University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria, his team has experienced the eBook and noted that it will be a key tool for residents as they learn.

“In Nigeria, cataract blindness has a deep impact, limiting the ability of people to work, seek education and live a full life,” Bekibele said in a statement. “We are pleased to have this resource as part of our training, as we work with our partner at HelpMeSee to restore sight for people who cannot get care today."

According to the release, coupled with the launch of the eBook, the nonprofit has also created the HelpMeSee eBook Fund, which is dedicating 100% of the proceeds from the sale of the product to provide no-cost surgery for people suffering from unnecessary cataract blindness in developing nations.

Jahani pointed out that worldwide there are many people who live their entire lives blind, because they cannot get access to eye care.

“In keeping with our mission to restore sight for people who suffer, we will use this fund to change lives, with 100% of the proceeds going to provide surgery for people who suffer from treatable cataract blindness," Jahani said.

According to the company, it is offering the eBook Pro-License at an introductory price of $69 through July 15, providing access for one year with unlimited updates. The Buy One + Give One option includes the Pro- License eBook access for one year and gifts a Pro-License to an ophthalmologist in the developing world at no cost. Multi-license discounts are available.

For more information, go to: https://resources.helpmesee.org/msicsebook/.