'Head Start' training model with removeable eye socket, made of silicon, made by Human Analogue Applications, 2014-2017

Released for use in 2015 by Sightsavers, this low-cost surgical training model helps eye surgeons and surgical nurses to understand and practice operations for Trachomatous trichiasis. This is a condition a person’s eyelids turn inwards and their eyelashes rub painfully against their eye. Without treatment, trichiasis can cause blindness. It is caused by repeated infections such as trachoma, inflammation, autoimmune conditions, and trauma. Surgeons operate to return a person’s eyelid to its original position, easing discomfort and improving a person’s sight.

Developed by Emily Gower, an expert in Trachomatous trichiasis, and Jim Johnson, a professor of Applied Learning, both at Wake Forest University, HEAD START stands for Human Eyelid Analogue Device for Surgical Training and Skill Reinforcement in Trachoma. Accompanied by a training manual and trainers, HEAD START is the only surgical simulator for trichiasis surgery. Trainees gain skills and confidence and can assess their incisions and suturing skills before carrying out operations under supervision and then finally on their own. They are continually supported after they are certified. Audits are carried out to ensure surgeries are being carried out to a high standard.

Charities such as Sightsavers trains people in the districts where they live to ensure different places have access to a surgeon and nurses. They travel to where people need their services and includes visiting nomadic communities. Sightsavers works prevent avoidable blindness and fight for the rights of people with disabilities in over 30 different countries. They estimate that around 2.5 million people need surgery for trichiasis. The charity Between 2001 and 2020, their surgeons have provided 435,000 trichiasis operations.