A brief history of colour vision

Andrew Want takes a look at how colour vision has evolved in humans and animals and how it differs across species. Colour vision is something that we often take for granted, but it has become so intrinsic to the way...

End of an era: completing training. Tips for survival, fellowship applications and how to CCT

Tafadzwa Young-Zvandasara shares the things he wishes he had paid more attention to when approaching the end of training. It is the end of an era, you are now ready to move on. Training has been filled with a structured...

SOS (Simplified Ophthalmic Statistics) Part 3: Which statistical test should I use (if any)?

P<0.05 is a statement that brings joy to many researchers. Arguably this is because inclusion of such a statement may increase the chance of acceptance for publication. Whilst statisticians and non-statisticians are united in trying to change this culture, cultural...

Practical phacodynamics – making the most of your phacoemulsification machine

Understanding phacodynamics is appreciating the subtleties in the dynamic changes of the fluidics and the ultrasonic power delivered. Kristina Southcott explains. Increase my vacuum! Increase my bottle height! Increase my phaco power! I frequently observe the above commands being directed...

SOS (Simplified Ophthalmic Statistics) Part 2: How to summarise your data and why it’s a good idea to do so

Studies involve capturing data. Statistical techniques allow data to be used to answer important research questions. A case series may have data on a handful of subjects but we are now entering the Big Data arena where datasets can be...

Decontamination and sterilisation of surgical instruments and medical devices

Ann-Marie Ablett is a Theatre Nurse and Team Leader who volunteers with Orbis. This has allowed her to gain a wealth of experience on ophthalmic procedures, nursing in under-privileged parts of the world, leadership, management and use of scarce resources....

Simplified Ophthalmic Statistics (SOS) Part 1: An introduction to data – how do we classify it and why does it matter?

Introductory statistics courses often start by explaining how data can be classified in different ways. What is not always clear is why you would need to know this. Catey Bunce and Tafadzwa Young-Zvandasara explain. The term data can be applied...

“We try our best”, but we should still be open and transparent

In a recent discussion with colleagues, someone recognised that many, when asked what they do, say, “I am a doctor”. Rather than “I work as a doctor”. This sense of belonging, pride and duty comes with responsibility. Becoming a surgeon,...

Technology in ophthalmology – a promising future and what we need to know about the regulations

Undoubtedly, ophthalmology is one of the greatest sources of inspiration for technological progress in medicine. Thus far, we have seen remarkable advancements in the technology used by ophthalmologists across all subspecialties. From simplifying common procedures, to treating previously incurable conditions,...

Training on the go

In this guide, we aim to provide trainees with novel ideas to maximise learning in the workplace to make the most of your working hours and balance the multiple demands on your time. They say time flies; and it really...

The medical student syndrome

It is often said that “a little learning is a dangerous thing,” but being super savvy can’t put us at the brink of harm, can it? Each year as thousands of students commence their medical degrees, they begin a journey...

Embryology in clinical practice

The fascinating world of embryology is both beautiful and practical. It is a home video of our evolutionary history through the ages from the single cell through to the life aquatic, the development of gut, limbs and brain, and most...