A Review of Virtual Reality-Based Eye Examination Simulators

Eye fundus examination requires extensive practice to enable the adequate interpretation of the anatomy observed as a flat image seen through the ophthalmoscope, which is a handheld device that allows for the non-invasive examination of the back of the eye. Mastering eye examination with an ophthalmoscope is difficult due to the intricate volumetric anatomy of the eye when seen as a two-dimensional image when examined through the lens of an1 ophthalmoscope. The lack of eye examination skills in medical practitioners is a cause of concern in today’s medical practise as misdiagnosis can result in improper or prompt treatment of life-threatening conditions such as glaucoma, high blood pressure, or diabetes amongst others. Past and current solutions to the problem of ophthalmoscope education have seen the use of pictures, illustrations, videos, cadavers, patients, and volunteers. More recently, simulation has provided a higher-end instrument to expose trainees to otherwise impossible conditions for learning purposes safely. However, simulation costs associated with purchasing and maintaining modern simulators has lead to complications related to their acquisition and availability. These shortcomings in eye examination simulation have led to research focusing on cost-effective tools using a breadth of solutions involving physical and digital simulators ranging from mobile applications to virtual and augmented reality, to makerspace and practical eye models. In this chapter, we review direct ophthalmoscopy simulation models for medical training. We highlight the characteristics, limitations, and advantages presented by modern simulation devices.