P029: A novel use of a point-of-view camera for teaching lateral canthotomy and cantholysis to emergency physician trainees

Abstract

Introduction / Innovation Concept: Orbital compartment syndrome (OCS) is a vision threatening ocular emergency that occurs when there is a sudden rise in orbital pressure resulting in damage to intraocular structures. Lateral canthotomy and cantholysis (LCC) is a simple procedure used to decompress the orbit. Emergency physicians should be comfortable evaluating and diagnosing OCS, and performing a LCC to decrease the risk of vision loss in the event that consultation and intervention by an ophthalmologist is not possible in a timely manner. Developing this skill is challenging as this procedure is seldom performed, therefore resources need to be available. Current training videos are an excellent learning tool but are limited by several factors, such as not capturing from the perspective of the physician performing the procedure. Point-of-view (POV) cameras show the physician’s perspective, which is more conducive to training as it mimics the experience for trainees. We report our novel technique of recording a LCC using a head-mounted POV camera as a resource for emergency physician trainees in learning this procedure. Methods: We used a head mounted POV GoPro Hero 4 Silver camera (GoPro, San Mateo, CA, U.S.A.) with a modified 5.4mm f/2.5 aftermarket lens with a 60° field of view (Peau Productions Inc, San Diego, CA, U.S.A.). This lens was pre-focused to a working distance of 17 inches, set to 1080P on narrow recording at 48 frames per second, and had spot metering and the low light functions turned on. The camera functions were controlled remotely by an assistant with the use of GoPro App on a tablet computer to ensure proper framing of the camera. Curriculum, Tool, or Material: Our novel use of a POV camera for recording LCC is an efficient, cost effective tool useful for medical education at an academic institution as well as a valuable resource for emergency room clinicians. The POV recording system can be a training device in an emergency setting for performing a LCC or other procedures that emergency physicians may seldom encounter. Conclusion: Point-of-view cameras have great potential in assisting the education at the post-graduate level within residency training programs. Video recording from the physician’s perspective simulates the experience for trainees and could leave them feeling more confident in their ability to perform the procedure.