Glaucoma

Fellowship in Glaucoma

The Fellowship in Glaucoma is an advanced subspecialty training designed to equip ophthalmologists with specialized expertise in the diagnosis, medical management, and surgical treatment of glaucoma.

The training focuses on developing proficiency in advanced diagnostic technologies, medical therapies, and surgical interventions, including minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), to prepare fellows for leadership roles in glaucoma care.

Description

This (02) two-year fellowship offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates theoretical instruction, hands-on practice, and clinical and surgical experience. Training methods include didactic lectures, case discussions, journal clubs, dry and wet labs, clinical rotations, and supervised surgical practice.

The training emphasizes mastering diagnostic tools like optical coherence tomography (OCT) and gonioscopy, as well as surgical techniques such as trabeculectomy and MIGS, to manage a wide range of glaucoma cases. Fellows also engage in research to contribute to advancements in glaucoma care, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the field.

Training Objectives The primary objective of the Fellowship in Glaucoma is to train fellows to become expert clinicians and surgeons in glaucoma management. Specific goals include:
  • Mastering advanced diagnostic technologies and techniques for accurate glaucoma diagnosis.
  • Developing proficiency in medical and surgical interventions, including MIGS and traditional glaucoma surgeries.
  • Enhancing skills in managing complex glaucoma cases, including secondary and pediatric glaucoma, with a focus on patient safety.
  • Contributing to the field through research, academic presentations, and publications.
  • Preparing fellows for leadership roles in glaucoma care in both academic and clinical settings.
Module Overview The training is structured into (05) five key modules, each focusing on a critical aspect of glaucoma training: 1- Dry Lab
  • Focus: Mastery of diagnostic tools and techniques.
  • Content: Fellows become proficient in using diagnostic technologies such as OCT, visual field testing, gonioscopy, pachymetry, and Heidelberg Retina Tomograph (HRT). Training includes analyzing diagnostic tests, correlating findings with clinical presentations, and developing individualized treatment plans. Theoretical sessions cover glaucoma pathophysiology, types of glaucoma, and genetic/environmental factors.
2- Wet Lab
  • Focus: Hands-on practice of surgical techniques.
  • Content: Fellows train in traditional and modern glaucoma surgeries, including trabeculectomy, tube shunt surgery, and MIGS procedures. Training includes laser techniques like selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) and laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI), as well as managing complications such as bleb issues and hypotony.
3- Clinical Experience
  • Focus: Comprehensive glaucoma patient management.
  • Content: Fellows manage a wide range of glaucoma patients in outpatient clinics, from early-stage to advanced cases, including secondary and pediatric glaucoma. Training includes managing co-morbid conditions (e.g., cataracts, diabetic retinopathy) and counseling patients on IOP-lowering therapies, surgical options, and lifestyle adjustments.
4- Surgical Experience
  • Focus: Advanced surgical techniques and decision-making.
  • Content: Fellows perform glaucoma surgeries, progressing from assisting to independently conducting procedures like trabeculectomy, tube shunts, and MIGS under supervision. Training focuses on minimally invasive techniques, managing complications (e.g., bleb failure, IOP fluctuations), and achieving long-term pressure control.
5- Research and Academic Development
  • Focus: Contribution to the field of glaucoma.
  • Content: Fellows engage in clinical or translational research on glaucoma pathophysiology, treatments, or surgical techniques. They present findings at conferences, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and participate in journal clubs and academic discussions to stay updated on evidence-based glaucoma management.
Training Prerequisites To enroll in the Fellowship in Glaucoma, candidates must meet the following requirements:
  • Be a licensed ophthalmologist or have completed an accredited ophthalmology residency training.
  • Have basic knowledge of glaucoma diagnosis and management.
  • Demonstrate a strong interest in glaucoma care and patient management.
  • Be committed to maintaining a logbook and participating in research and academic activities.
  • Be proficient in English and / or French for effective communication and comprehension of training materials.
How to Apply To apply for the fellowship, candidates should:
  1. Submit a completed application form, available on the official website or through the training institution.
  2. Provide a copy of their medical license, academic transcripts, and a resume detailing relevant clinical and surgical experience.
  3. Include a letter of motivation outlining their interest in comprehensive ophthalmology.
  4. Send all application folders via email or the online application portal by the specified deadline.
Shortlisted candidates may be required to attend an interview or assessment to evaluate their suitability for the program. For further details or to apply, contact the training coordinator at the training institution or visit the website.