Top 10 Questions for Ophthalmologist Interview

1. What is your approach to diagnosing and managing a patient with uveitis?

In evaluating a patient with uveitis, a thorough history and ocular examination are essential. The symptoms, duration, laterality, and any associated systemic symptoms should be carefully assessed. I would perform a slit-lamp examination to evaluate the anterior chamber, iris, lens, and vitreous. Gonioscopy may be necessary to rule out angle involvement. Dilated fundus examination is crucial to evaluate the retina, choroid, and optic nerve.

Management of uveitis depends on the underlying cause. For non-infectious uveitis, topical or systemic corticosteroids are commonly used. Immunosuppressive agents may be necessary in more severe cases. For infectious uveitis, appropriate antimicrobial therapy is essential.

2. Describe the surgical technique for phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation.

Creating the corneal incision

• A corneal incision is made using a keratome or femtosecond laser.
• The incision is typically 2.2-2.8 mm in length and placed temporally.

Creating the anterior chamber

• Viscoelastic is injected into the anterior chamber to maintain space and protect the corneal endothelium.
• The anterior chamber is entered using a paracentesis needle.

Phacoemulsification

• A phacoemulsification probe is inserted into the anterior chamber.
• The probe emits ultrasonic waves that break up the lens material.
• The emulsified lens material is aspirated.

Intraocular lens implantation

• An intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted into the capsular bag.
• The IOL is unfolded and centered.

Wound closure

• The corneal incision is typically self-sealing.
• Suture may be necessary in some cases.

3. What are the indications and contraindications for laser trabeculoplasty (SLT)?

Indications

• Open-angle glaucoma
• Pigmentary glaucoma
• Pseudoexfoliative glaucoma
• Patients who are intolerant or non-compliant with topical medications

Contraindications

• Acute angle-closure glaucoma
• Uveitis
• Corneal opacity
• Previous filtering surgery

4. How do you manage a patient with a retinal detachment?

The management of a retinal detachment depends on the type and severity of the detachment. In cases of a rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD), the goal is to close the retinal breaks and allow the retina to reattach. This can be achieved through various techniques, such as:

• Pneumatic retinopexy
• Scleral buckle
• Vitrectomy

For tractional retinal detachments, the underlying cause needs to be addressed. This may involve removing epiretinal membranes or treating proliferative diabetic retinopathy.

5. What are the different types of macular degeneration and how do you manage them?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

• Dry AMD: This is the most common type of AMD. It is characterized by the accumulation of drusen in the macula. Treatment options include lifestyle modifications, nutritional supplements, and anti-VEGF injections.
• Wet AMD: This is a more severe form of AMD that is characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the macula. Treatment options include anti-VEGF injections and photodynamic therapy.

Other types of macular degeneration

• Stargardt disease: This is a genetic disorder that affects the macula. It is characterized by the accumulation of lipofuscin in the retinal pigment epithelium.
• Best disease: This is a rare genetic disorder that affects the macula. It is characterized by the accumulation of vitelliform material in the macula.

6. What is your experience with managing patients with diabetic retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes that can lead to vision loss. I have extensive experience in managing patients with diabetic retinopathy, including:

• Monitoring for disease progression
• Performing laser photocoagulation
• Administering anti-VEGF injections
• Counseling patients on lifestyle modifications

I have a particular interest in the early detection and treatment of diabetic retinopathy, as this can help prevent vision loss.

7. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in ophthalmology?

I am committed to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in ophthalmology. I regularly attend conferences and webinars, and I read scientific journals and textbooks.

I am also involved in research, which allows me to stay at the forefront of new developments in the field.

8. What are your research interests?

My research interests are in the areas of:

• Age-related macular degeneration: I am particularly interested in the development of new treatments for AMD.
• Diabetic retinopathy: I am interested in the early detection and treatment of diabetic retinopathy, as this can help prevent vision loss.

I am also interested in the use of artificial intelligence in ophthalmology. I believe that AI has the potential to revolutionize the way we diagnose and treat eye diseases.

9. What are your strengths and weaknesses as an ophthalmologist?

Strengths

• Excellent clinical skills
• Strong surgical skills
• Patient-centered approach
• Commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in ophthalmology

Weaknesses

• I am still relatively new to the field, so I do not have as much experience as some of my more senior colleagues.

However, I am eager to learn and grow, and I am confident that I can quickly develop the skills and experience necessary to be a successful ophthalmologist.

10. Why are you interested in this position?

I am interested in this position because it would allow me to use my skills and experience to help patients with a wide range of eye conditions.

I am particularly interested in the opportunity to work with a team of experienced ophthalmologists and to be involved in research.

I am confident that I have the skills and experience necessary to be a successful ophthalmologist at your clinic, and I am eager to learn and grow within the profession.