Docet webinar - Glaucoma - The optic disc challenge

Domains covered

Clinical practice

This one-hour webinar, funded by Docet and managed by The College of Optometrists, gives optometrists an opportunity to assess and reflect on their optic disc interpretation skills for a range of patient cases.

As optometrists, we examine the optic nerve head as a routine part of eye examinations. How good are we at interpreting subtle glaucomatous changes? Optic disc interpretation is a fundamental part of accurate and appropriate referrals for suspect glaucoma.

Accurate glaucoma referral relies on accurate examination of the optic disc, commonly today in conjunction with interpretation of images and OCT scans. Feedback from some is that we are not always as observant as we would wish and early cases may be missed, but also increased use of OCT and technology may sometimes result in unnecessary and inappropriate referrals.

The presenter will give the participants a reminder of the key elements to look out for when examining the disc and explain how to use technology effectively to support the management of glaucoma suspects.

The webinar will cover five cases with polls designed to test the participant’s observations on the optic discs.

At the end of the webinar, Patrick Gunn will answer some of the live questions raised during the talk.

You will be able to claim one interactive CPD point after attending this live session.

Domains and learning outcomes

Clinical Practice

S. 5 Keep your knowledge and skills up to date

Able to interpret optic disc images and scans and understand when there are signs of glaucoma.

S. 6 Recognise, and work within, your limits of competence

Recognises when a patient needs to be referred to a glaucoma specialist for further investigation.

S. 7 Conduct appropriate assessments, examinations, treatments and referrals

Able to examine and interpret the optic disc appearance accurately and recognise any suspicious changes that may indicate glaucoma.

Mr Patrick Gunn BSc MCOptom DipTp(IP) DipGlauc

Lead Optometrist for Education and Training at the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital

Paddy is Lead Optometrist for Education and Training at the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Honorary Lecturer in Optometry at the University of Manchester and Co-Lead of both establishments’ joint Professional Certificate in Glaucoma. He has achieved the College of Optometrists’ Diplomas in both glaucoma and independent prescribing and is an examiner for the College of Optometrists.

As well as being a practising hospital optometrist specialising in glaucoma and delivering laser procedures, Paddy has research commitments focusing on improving patient pathways, service delivery and patient care. Paddy represents Manchester Royal Eye Hospital on Manchester, Salford and Trafford Local Optical Committee and also works in primary care at an independent optometry practice.