Dr. Chong has returned to the clinic following a fulfilling 7-week placement in Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
During his time in Switzerland, he had the opportunity to work at l'Hopital ophtalmique Jules-Gonin, where he participated in various clinics focused on paediatric ophthalmology, pediatric oculogenetics, and paediatric ophthalmic oncology. Under the mentorship of Professor Munier, a renowned ocular geneticist and paediatric oncologist, Dr. Chong spent the majority of his time in theatres, managing a wide range of pediatric eye conditions such as retinoblastoma, Coats disease, persistent fetal vasculature, and congenital corneal opacification. He extensively familiarised himself with advanced ocular imaging techniques, including portable intraoperative OCT, intraoperative fluorescein and indocyanine techniques, as well as anterior and posterior segment ultrasound. Additionally, he refined his surgical skills in the treatment of ocular tumors using intraoperative cryotherapy, diodepexy, thermotherapy, intravitreal chemotherapy and argon laser treatment. Dr. Chong was also involved in surgeries for complex anterior segment disorders, including cataracts associated with persistent fetal vasculature and anterior segment dysgenesis.
Following his time in Switzerland, Dr. Chong embarked on a 3-week placement at the Royal London Hospital, where he worked closely with Dr. Ashwin Reddy and Professor Mandeep Sagoo in the Pediatric Ophthalmology and Retinoblastoma units. Not only did he witness the seamless collaboration of a world-class ocular oncology unit in providing holistic care, but he was also invited to present at their Departmental education session, sharing his experience.
While in London, Dr. Chong actively participated in multidisciplinary meetings focusing on the management of complex adult strabismus. Additionally, he attended specialised clinics dedicated to complex strabismus and neuro-strabismus, further enhancing his proficiency in managing these intricate eye disorders.
Dr. Chong is looking forward to applying the wealth of knowledge and skills he acquired during his placements to benefit his patients in the Bay of Plenty.
Additionally, his role as the Retinoblastoma Consultant with the National Retinoblastoma Service, based at Greenlane Clinical Centre, will enable him to make a significant impact in the field of pediatric eye care.