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Course & Wetlab Programme

Confocal scanning laser tomography (cSLT) of the retina using the Heidelberg
Retina Tomograph

Confocal scanning laser tomography (cSLT) of the retina provides both a clinical and research based tool to the ophthalmic community. After a short historical overview along with the basic principles of operation
of confocal scanning laser tomography, the course will concentrate on the applicability of the Heidelberg Retina Tomograph in evaluating the optic nerve head and the macular region. Initially, the well-established clinical evaluation of the optic nerve head will be discussed with a special interest on the topographic analysis and the various topographic indices. The analysis of the macular region based on the axial intensity profile, the edema index and the newly developed pachymetry analysis will follow, while finally a demonstration of the instrument and its analysis both in terms of the optic nerve head and the macular region will conclude the session.

Galilei Dual Scheimpflug Analyses

More information to follow...

IOLs: Materials, Shapes and Complications

The first intraocular lens was implanted by Harold Ridley more than 60 years ago and ever since the improvement in this field has been dramatic.

Often theatre assistants hear the different reasons which determine which particular implant a surgeon will use.

This course will cover the advantages and disadvantages of the different IOL materials and designs, and participants will also be shown photographs of changes which ocurr to the intraocular lens once it has
been implanted.

Optical Coherence Tomography

Optical Coherence Tomography is a technique of imaging the posterior pole. It is a method that uses interferometry, a process analogous to ultrasound, using optic instead of acoustic reflection. OCT allows a
tomography of the retina and its different layers with an axial resolution of 10 microns in a few minutes. Its final image is a false colour image (depending on the degree of light backscattering from tissues at different depths) representing different layers, from RPE to the RNFL layer. This permits the exact localisation of the pathology and an evaluation of its volume.

OCT is an advantageous method because it is not invasive, and in many cases pupil dilatation is not necessary. Good results are obtained with only 3mm dilatation.

The purpose of this course is to show the basis of the technique, its advantages and applications, and some results in different cases of retina pathologies. It also aims to provide some tips to facilitate the use of OCT in practical clinic. In the practial component of the course, all participants can try the equipment and carry out some examples of examinations.

Phacoemulsification

Discover the thrills and stress of phacoemulsification through the operating microscope and gain a greater understanding of the problems faced by your surgical colleagues. This wetlab course will cover wound construction, capsulorhexis, phacoemulsification, I/A and IOL implantation.

Refractive Surgery

In this course participants will have the opportunity to look at the current techniques used in refractive surgery: Topography - the course will contain a theoretical part and hands-on practice where participants
will learn to do exams and discuss important details with the instructors. Critical points about patient selection and decision-making concerning a photorefractive candidate, and evaluating quality of vision following refractive surgery. An overview of the most popular microkeratomes will be given along with hands-on practice where the participants can look at assembly and tips for a safe procedure. Postoperative complications, emergencies and re-operations will also be covered.

Part 1 - Theory:
• Current techniques
• Evaluating visual performance following refractive surgery
• Patient selection/Decision-making
• Emergencies/Postoperative complications
• Re-Operations

Part 2 - Practical:
• Topography
• Overview of microkeratomes
• Please note: All those attending Part 2 must also participate in Part 1 of the course.
• However it is possible to attend Part 1 without attending Part 2 of the course.

Please note: All those attending Part 2 must also participate in Part 1 of the course.
However it is possible to attend Part 1 without attending Part 2 of the course.

Slit Lamps

The slit lamp is essentially a binocular microscope and is a way of combining magnification with illumination. When first encountered the slit lamp appears to be a complex piece of equipment, but a few basic rules can make it much easier to use. This course welcomes both beginners and those who have a greater understanding of the area and will provide an informative demonstration of the microscopic slit lamp.

Standardised Biometry for Premium Surgical Outcomes

Pre-requisite: Basic knowledge of ocular anatomy

Ever increasing patient expectations demand that today’s cataract practice continuously evaluates the accuracy and efficiency of obtaining precise preoperative measurements and accurate IOL power calculations. This course will discuss current methods of obtaining the best values for each of the major variables: corneal power, axial length, and effective lens position, which must be standardised, monitored and continuously updated to achieve the best surgical outcomes for each and every patient. Emphasis
will be placed on criteria for determining the accuracy of measurements obtained by immersion A-scan as well as those obtained with optical biometry. The latest information concerning “best practices” on the IOL
Master as well as the new LenStar LS900 will be presented.

Measurement of Visual Acuity

More information to follow...

Standardised Biometry Labs

Pre-requisite: Attendance at “Standardised Biometry for Premium Surgical Outcomes” course

Participants will have the opportunity to apply principles learned in the didactic session utilising the following equipment:

• Accutome: A-Scan Plus
• Quantel Medical: Axis II
• Sonomed: PacScan 300A
• Carl Zeiss Meditec: IOL Master
• Haag Streit: LenStar LS900

Visual Fields

This course provides the opportunity for hands-on learning as an introduction or as an update of your existing skills. Visual field testing provides extremely important information and is a vital skill to master.
Detailed visual field analysis requires sophisticated machinery.