Davi Lucena Machado, Lucas Cruz Furtado, Manuela Freitas Ferreira Lima, Juliana de Lucena Martins Ferreira, Marcia Benevides Damasceno, Marcos Kubrusly
The present study addresses the use of portable devices coupled to smartphones in the practice of funduscopy, highlighting the importance of this examination in the diagnosis of eye diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. The use of such devices, especially in the context of telemedicine, has become relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing virtual exams and facilitating teaching in undergraduate medical courses. A survey was carried out with 94 medical students from Centro Universitário Christus, in Fortaleza-CE, who tested the device during practical classes. The methodology included the application of questionnaires to evaluate the limitation and effectiveness of the device in learning. The results indicated high accessibility on the part of students, with 84% stating that they would like to use the device frequently. Furthermore, 91% considered that the device significantly contributed to learning fundoscopy. However, some students reported difficulties and discomfort with the smartphone flash during the exam, especially in patients with light sensitivity. The study's conclusions point to the potential of these devices to modernize ophthalmology teaching and improve medical care, especially in contexts such as the SUS. However, improvements are possible, especially with regard to user adaptation and the impact of the emitted flash. The portable device has shown promise, both in educational and clinical practice, being a viable alternative to the traditional ophthalmoscope.
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