Vitreoretinal Surgery
Supervisors
- Dr. Efrem Mandelcorn, Fellowship Director
- Dr. Robert Devenyi
- Dr. Peter Kertes
- Dr. Kenneth Eng
Contact Information
Nicole Mclaren, Administrative Assistant
Toronto Western Hospital
399 Bathurst Street, Room 6E-432
Toronto, Ontario M5T 2S8
Tel: 416-603-5418
Fax: 416-603-5193
Email: nicole.mclaren@uhn.ca
Locations
- UHN - Toronto Western Hospital
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
- Kensington Eye Institute
- Hospital for Sick Children
Fellowship Objectives
1. Advanced subspecialty training in medical and surgical diseases of the posterior segment
2. Emphasis on comprehensive clinical assessment and multimodal imaging interpretation
3. Training in office-based retinal procedures and complex vitreoretinal surgery
4. Development of independent expertise in the diagnosis and management of retinal and vitreous disease
5. Advancement of clinical judgment, surgical skill, interdisciplinary collaboration, and scholarly activity in accordance with national standards
Clinical Duties
The fellowship is two years in length, with four vitreoretinal fellows accepted annually. Fellows rotate through the clinical practices of Dr. Efrem Mandelcorn, Dr. Robert Devenyi, Dr. Kenneth Eng, and Dr. Peter Kertes, as well as the laser suite and operating room.
In a typical week, fellows spend approximately two to three days in clinic, including laser procedures and minor interventions, and two days in the operating room, with additional time dedicated to research and academic activities. Fellows are expected to assess and manage a broad range of medical and surgical retina patients, participate in emergency and surgical case work-ups, and take part in retinal call coverage.
Clinical and surgical exposure is high volume and broad in scope, providing experience across the full spectrum of vitreoretinal disease. Surgical responsibility is assigned in a graded manner, with progressive autonomy based on individual skill and progression. By the second year, fellows focus on refining advanced surgical techniques and developing independent decision-making for complex vitreoretinal cases.
Fellows also participate in pediatric retinal care with Drs. Eng and Kertes at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and The Hospital for Sick Children, including retinopathy of prematurity screening and management of other pediatric retinal diseases.
Research
Approximately 20% of fellowship time (one day per week) is protected for research. Fellows are provided with opportunities to participate in both clinical and basic science research within the Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, University of Toronto. It is expected that each fellow will complete at least one original research project suitable for submission to a peer-reviewed journal. Fellows will also present their work at the annual Department Research Day.
Teaching
The Retina Service provides regular teaching rounds for ophthalmology residents, which fellows are expected to attend and actively contribute to. Fellows participate in resident and medical student teaching through case-based discussions, formal lectures, and grand rounds presentations. They are also expected to engage in the preparation and delivery of educational content throughout the fellowship.
Vacation
4 weeks’ vacation per year.
Conference
Up to 2 weeks of conference time may be taken on approval of the Supervisor.
Evaluation
The Fellow will be evaluated every three months. In addition, the Fellow will be asked to evaluate the fellowship experience and report to the Fellowship Committee.
Duration
1 to 2 years.
Salary
Approximately $85,000 CAD/year. Candidates are encouraged to secure funding through available resources.
Application Process
All applicants must register with the San Francisco Match Program and complete the application for the vitreoretinal surgery fellowship.
The fellowship begins on July 1st each year and is completed one or two years later on June 30th. Applications are reviewed annually, and shortlisted candidates are invited for interview, typically held in the fall. Final selection is made through the San Francisco Match.
Applicants are encouraged to submit a complete application package, including a current CV, personal statement, medical school transcript, three letters of recommendation, and any relevant documentation of research, publications, and academic achievements. Letters of recommendation should be submitted by supervising faculty familiar with the applicant’s clinical and surgical training.
Based on the submitted application, selected candidates will be invited for interview, which is required for consideration.