Clinical research
As with most clinical disciplines, the Division of Ophthalmology has a long history of conducting clinical research, either retrospective or prospective case series. This plays an important part in familiarising registrars with research, and helping audit clinical practice.
CRU
Research for Clinicians
The Clinical Research Unit of the Ophthalmology Division at UCT was established by Dr Daemon McClunan and Prof Nagib du Toit and is currently co-headed by A/Prof Chris Tinley.
Our CRU aims at providing a platform for research for industry-sponsored eye studies, which should then generate funds for conducting research on topics of interest, or unanswered research questions for our consultants, registrars and students, where lack of funding may be a stumbling block. Facilities are embedded within the Groote Schuur Hospital eye ward and clinic, as well as the UCT Clinical Research Centre.
We have a collaboration for research with Liqid Medical, a private company directed by Dr McClunan, which develops glaucoma drainage devices and has won multiple sponsorships and awards.
We intend on expanding our knowledge in the field and thus improving the care delivered to our patients.