Residents are given the opportunity to participate in various research projects, which provide ample opportunities for additional areas of study. The faculty is readily available for consultation. Glaucoma Service Glaucoma is found in a large sement of Vanderbilt's patient population. Residents gain experience in the medical and surgical management of a variety of these disorders, including filtration surgery and laser procedures. Vitreo-Retinal Service Daily clinics offer residents broad experience in both medical and surgical disease of the retina and vitreous.
Residents get hands-on experience using lasers and diagnostic ultrasound in the clinic.
Second-year residents interpret fluoroscein angiograms under faculty supervision. All varieties of surgical vitreo-retinal cases are performed including submacular surgery, macular translocation, retinal detachment and complicated trauma. The new Vanderbilt Laser Sight Center uses the FDA-approved VISX STAR Excimer Laser System, and residents assist in performing refractive surgery under close guidance from the attending staff. They also gain valuable experience in the management of various refractive disorders. A comprehensive research program including both clinical and laboratory programs, studies the molecular mechanisms of corneal would healing.