Does anyone know how long the training is for this specialty? do you do a regular neurology residency or ophthamology or either one? thanks

There are two routes to be trained as a neuro-ophthalmologist:

1) Completing a neurology residency (4 years) then a one-year neuro-ophthalmology fellowship.

or

2) Completing an ophthalmology residency (4 years) then a one-year neuro-ophthalmology fellowship.

If you do neurology first then a neuro-op fellowship, then you will not be qualified to do surgeries (e.g. cataracts, muscles, etc...)

If you do ophthalmology first then a neuro-op fellowship, then you will be qualified to do all of the above.

Many neuro-ophthalmologists continue to practice general ophthalmology along with their sub-specialty.

I know you'd be the best person to ask Dr. Doan,

I'm thinking of doing a neuro-ophthalmology elective. Any advice on preparing beforehand (fund of knowledge, skills, etc.) so I can shine?

Thanks for making this such a valuable forum.

I know you'd be the best person to ask Dr. Doan,

I'm thinking of doing a neuro-ophthalmology elective at Scheie. Any advice on preparing beforehand (fund of knowledge, skills, etc.) so I can shine?

Thanks for making this such a valuable forum.

First, to do well, you must know how to do a basic ophthalmic exam.

I recommend this book published by the American Academy of Ophthalmology:

"Practical Ophthalmology, A Manual for Beginning Residents"

Edited by Fred M Wilson II, MD

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1560550341/wholehogbookstor/104-5085880-4672765

The Academy also publishes an introductory book for medical students.

Second, I recommend reading the neuro-ophthalmology section of the Wills manual and learn the fundamentals of the diseases listed there. If you know the above for your neuro-op elective, then you should be able to do well.

Good luck!