A Practical Guide for Trainees and Applicants on Conducting an Ophthalmology Audit on Posterior Capsule Rupture

  • Reading time:5 mins read
  • Post author:Virginija Vilkelyte
  • Post category:Article

Posterior capsule rupture (PCR) is a well-recognised complication of cataract surgery and a key quality indicator in ophthalmic surgical outcomes (1). Conducting an audit on PCR is not only a valuable exercise in clinical governance but also relatively straightforward, making it an excellent opportunity for both ophthalmology trainees and those applying for training to gain audit experience and contribute to improving patient safety.

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Navigating Hospital Dress Codes and Religious Observance: Accommodating the Hijab in Surgical Practice

  • Reading time:6 mins read
  • Post author:Felon Mahrous
  • Post category:Article

As the medical profession increasingly recognises the importance of diversity and inclusivity, Muslim women who wear the hijab (headscarf) continue to face unique challenges in surgical environments due to existing hospital dress codes. This article explores the intersection of religious dress practices and hospital theatre guidelines, highlighting the barriers that persist for hijabi healthcare professionals and offering practical solutions for greater inclusivity.

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Steroid-Induced Glaucoma: A Literature Review

  • Reading time:9 mins read
  • Post author:Arslan Khaliq Raja
  • Post category:Article

Corticosteroids can induce ocular hypertension and a type of secondary open-angle glaucoma, referred to as steroid-induced glaucoma. The use of corticosteroids is widespread and readily prescribed in clinical practice, and they have adverse effects on ocular health when used for long periods or in high doses; thus, it is important for clinicians to understand how to prevent vision-threatening complications in patients on corticosteroid therapy. This article will discuss the pathophysiology of steroid-induced glaucoma, associated risk factors, methods of diagnosing, and management, so that the clinician is somewhat familiar with the condition before diagnosing, managing, or even preventing it in patients.

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The Silent Struggle of Charles Bonnet Syndrome

  • Reading time:7 mins read
  • Post author:Virginija Vilkelyte
  • Post category:Article

Envision yourself in a hypothetical future where you are 87 years old and residing in Geneva, Switzerland, after having led a healthy life. As you relax on your sofa one afternoon, you notice something peculiar. There is a white handkerchief with four orange circles floating in the air. This sight leaves you momentarily frightened and bewildered. How could a handkerchief be floating in space? Where did it come from, and how did it get there? You may experience a range of emotions in this scenario. Initially, you might feel compelled to call out for help, but then you might hesitate, concerned about what others might think. The fear of being misunderstood or labelled as crazy could make you feel alone and confused, even though you know that you're the same person you've always been, with the same thoughts and feelings. The only thing that has changed is the presence of this unexpected handkerchief. This situation could trigger a sense of worry and isolation, which could be difficult to navigate

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A Practical Approach for Effective Triage in a High-Volume and Walk-In Eye Casualty Service

  • Reading time:14 mins read
  • Post author:Abdul Muhyemin Tarin
  • Post category:Article

Tertiary eye casualty departments in the United Kingdom are often inundated with high volumes of patients from broad catchment areas. Patients may self-present during opening hours, arrive after being signposted from local or regional accident and emergency departments, referred by optometrists and general practitioners, or sent from smaller neighbouring ophthalmic departments. This constant inflow can overwhelm the system to breaking point, causing significant delays and leaving patients and staff extremely frustrated.

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Corneal Transplantation: 120 Years on – A Journey Through Time and Innovation

  • Reading time:14 mins read
  • Post author:Chi Kit Yan
  • Post category:Article

Vision is inarguably the most vital sense, enabling individuals to navigate the world, connect with others, and experience life in vivid detail. At the forefront of maintaining clear vision is the cornea, the transparent, dome-shaped outer layer of the eye that focuses light onto the retina. However, injury, infection, or diseases such as keratoconus and corneal dystrophies can compromise its clarity, leading to significant visual impairment or blindness. For millions of people worldwide, corneal transplantation has offered a lifeline, restoring sight and improving quality of life. This remarkable procedure, first performed successfully over a century ago, has transformed from a rudimentary surgical endeavour into a sophisticated intervention supported by advances in technology, immunology, and bioengineering. As we look to the future, corneal transplantation continues to evolve, offering innovative solutions to the challenges of donor shortages, surgical precision, and accessibility. This article will explore a brief history, current techniques and future advancement in corneal transplantation.

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Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures and Ophthalmology: A Growing Concern

  • Reading time:5 mins read
  • Post author:Sulaiman Mahmood
  • Post category:Article

The 21st century has seen a sharp rise in the use of non-surgical cosmetic procedures, such as dermal fillers and botox injections. Their immense popularity can be attributed to their promise of facial rejuvenation, ease of access, and minimal downtime. However, as their use has surged, so too have their complications. Given the delicate neurovascular anatomy surrounding the eye, improper injection techniques or product migration have led to serious adverse effects including vision loss, diplopia, and ptosis. This article aims to highlight some key ophthalmic risks associated with cosmetic procedures and consequently highlight the importance of awareness and preventative strategies.

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Advancements in the management of Keratoconus

  • Reading time:12 mins read
  • Post author:Anes Harid
  • Post category:Article

Keratoconus is a progressive corneal disorder characterised by thinning and conical shape of the cornea, posing a significant impact to ophthalmology physicians and patients’ quality of life. Patients are affected from a young age with various habitual, genetic, and environmental factors including eye rubbing, previous family history, as well as conditions such as Down Syndrome. Visual acuity is impacted through severe astigmatism, corneal scarring, and even corneal perforation with a prevalence of up to 5% of the population, especially in regions such as the Middle East.

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Orbital Varices: A Summary of a Rare but Clinically Significant Entity 

  • Reading time:7 mins read
  • Post author:Shenelle Wickramarathna
  • Post category:Article

Orbital varices are characterized by thin-walled, distensible venous channels that communicate with the normal orbital venous system. These rare venous malformations account for approximately 1.3% of all orbital masses. Varices can be classified as primary or secondary; primary varices are congenital, while secondary orbital varices are acquired, often resulting from arteriovenous malformations or arteriovenous fistulas. Due to their rarity, orbital varices present diagnostic and management challenges. However, timely identification is crucial, as they can lead to significant complications, including thrombosis and haemorrhage.

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Ichthyosis and Ocular Manifestations

  • Reading time:4 mins read
  • Post author:Sinthiya Sivarajah
  • Post category:Article

Ichthyosis is a group of inherited skin disorders characterised by skin thickness and dry scale formation. There are many forms of Ichthyosis which range in appearance, severity and mode of inheritance. Ichthyosis can also present with ocular manifestations which are primarily due to abnormalities in the eyelid and tear film. This can lead to development of exposure keratopathy. In more severe forms of Ichthyosis, such as harlequin ichthyosis, the skin around the eyelids can become tight and inflexible leading to cicatricial ectropion.

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