Assessment of fellowship programs in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Philippine General Hospital

Objective@#The purpose of this study was to describe the perceptions and satisfaction of the graduates and trainees of the fellowship programs of the Philippine General Hospital - Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (PGH DOVS). @*Methods@#A uniform survey was conducted among all graduates and ongoing trainees of the External Disease and Cornea, Medical and Surgical Vitreo-Retina, Glaucoma, Orbit and Oculoplastics, and Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus fellowship programs. The survey link was emailed to all the participants.@*Results@#Response rate was 74%. Majority of graduates were clustered in the National Capital Region (NCR) (56.4%), and Luzon excluding NCR (46.4%). Majority of the graduates perceived that the objectives of their fellowship program were met (60%). Overall, 65.4% of the fellows assessed their training as completely adequate. Strengths identified were volume of patients, level of independence, and consultant supervision. Weaknesses identified were the lack of specialized instruments, lack of inter-department exposures, and difficulties in the conduct of research.@*Conclusion@#Majority were satisfied with their training and would recommend their training program to others despite the difficulties and deficiencies identified. Some of the perceived weaknesses observed by the graduates have been addressed since their graduation from their program. This is the first attempt to assess post-residency fellowship programs in ophthalmology in the Philippines.

A traction suture holding device for glaucoma procedures

Objective@#We described an adjustable traction technique for glaucoma surgeries that provided adequate visualization of the surgical field.@*Methods@#A prototype device was designed to provide good exposure of the surgical site by using a peripheral lamellar trans-corneal suture capable of applying and sustaining tension. Adjustments to the amount of traction required were made through the device.@*Results@#The device was used in 9 cases of glaucoma surgeries: 5 trabeculectomies and 4 glaucoma drainage device implantations. No significant complications were observed.@*Conclusions@#The device was easy to use and allowed more flexibility for the surgeon.