The Measey Surgical Innovations Core (MSICS) is the newest realization of the Scheie Eye Institute's excellence in ophthalmic education. MSICS embodies Scheie’s commitment to advancing the field of ophthalmology— nurturing the next generation of surgeons equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead the future of ophthalmic surgery. Seated where innovation intersects with clinical education, the renovation of the Measey Surgical Innovations Core at Scheie contributes a direct impact on trainee surgeons, marking a leap towards redefining ophthalmic surgery training. The initial proposal, seeking a $1 million contribution from the Measey Foundation towards a total project cost of $1.5 million, contained a blueprint for the future of education in the field. The proposal detailed the acquisition of cutting-edge equipment like the Haag-Streit HS-Hi-R NEO 900 Wet Lab Microscope and the Eyesi Surgical Simulator—tools designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical prowess in surgical settings. The Haag-Streit HS-Hi-R NEO 900 offers a simulation of an operating room microscope, enhancing surgical skill sets with its advanced optics and functionality. Meanwhile, equipment like the Eyesi Surgical Simulator provides a comprehensive, immersive experience, allowing trainees to refine essential skills through realistic simulations of surgical procedures. MSICS leadership team member Dr. Christina Moon reflects on the contributions of MSICS to surgical training, highlights its tangible impact: "Our residents are much more experienced when they operate on live patients, thanks to the comprehensive and state-of-the-art training they receive here.” Dr Moon reflects definitively, “This facility will definitively improve patient outcomes."
This sentiment emphasizes MSICS’ role in enhancing surgical confidence and competence, a critical factor in the OR. The commitment to hands-on training, with MSICS leaders Dr. Victoria Addis and Dr. Christina Moon at the helm, is pivotal in enabling residents to “hit the ground running” in real-world surgical environments. Research substantiates this investment; a study cited in MSICS’ grant proposal demonstrates that access to a well-equipped wet lab correlates with a notable decrease in surgical complications among residents. Such training environments can improve resident-perceived surgical proficiency—especially in cataract surgery—potentially reducing complications in the operating room by as much as 25% in the first year of independent surgeries. The Measey Foundation's generous contribution is not only education-changing funding; it is an investment of confidence in the Scheie Eye Institute's future graduates. This philanthropic act is a cornerstone Scheie’s ongoing mission, providing the necessary resources to bring the MISIC from concept to reality. It represents a shared commitment to advancing medical education and reflects on the importance of philanthropy in fueling educational innovation. While the installation of top-tier equipment marks a significant milestone, it also starts the beginning of a new chapter that requires continuous support. The level of access granted to surgical trainees hinges upon ongoing investments in resources like human tissues for surgical practice—emphasizing our commitment to maintaining an exceptional training environment in ever-advancing surgical practices.
With leadership and vision from the likes of Dr. Addis, Dr. Moon, Scheie’s faculty, and the support of the Measey Foundation and a host of generous donors, MSICS is poised to continue redefining the standards of ophthalmic surgical training for pivotal years ahead.
by Maressa Park