COURSE AND WETLAB SCHEDULE

Confocal Scanning Laser Tomograph y (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 focus 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 Analysis

The Galilei is a diagnostic system designed for imaging and analysis of the anterior eye segment based on a rotating Dual-Scheimpflug Camera integrated with a Placido topographer. It can take images of
the anterior segment of the eye, evaluate and analyze the corneal shape, pachymetry, pupil size, anterior chamber, and Scheimpflug images. Participants will have the opportunity for hands-on training and to discuss the features of this diagnostic system with the instructors.

How to Write a Paper

This workshop is aimed at those who are interested in writing an for article for publication. It will look at the various methods of getting published, and the process to go through from your initial idea to
publication. The session will also explain the reviewing process and explain why some articles are rejected. This will be an interactive workshop and by the end of the session you will hopefully have the confidence to get your ideas onto paper and the confidence to submit your article to a journal.

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 occur 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 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.

Premium Axial Eye Length Measurements

To provide Highest Standard of Care, every cataract practice must be proficient at obtaining accurate axial eye length measurements with both optical and immersion A-Scan biometry. This course will discuss current methods of obtaining accurate, reproducible measurements utilizing both methods. Emphasis will be placed on criteria for determining the accuracy of measurements obtained by each method and correlation of the two. The latest information concerning “best practices” for the IOL Master 500 as well as the LenStar LS900 will be presented. Participants will have the opportunity to apply principles learned utilizing the following equipment:
Accutome..................A-Scan Plus
Ellex..........................eyecubed
Quantel Medical.........Compact Touch
Sonomed...................PacScan 300A
Carl Zeiss Meditec.....IOL Master 500
Haag Streit.................LenStar LS900

Premium IOL Power Calculations

Ever increasing patient expectations demand that today’s cataract practice continuously evaluate the accuracy and efficiency of obtaining preoperative measurements for precision IOL power calculations. With the increased requirements for multifocal and accommodative lenses along with the added complexity of lens power calculation after refractive surgery, this topic is more important than ever before. This course will include discussion on all of these topics as well as the importance of standardization of keratometry and biometry measurements, personalization of lens constants, appropriate formula selection, and the latest data on the accuracy of available methods for calculating IOL power for the post refractive surgery patient.

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 handson 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.

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 Technique for Ultrasound B-Scan Evaluation of the Posterior Segment

Ultrasonography, properly utilized, can be one of ophthalmology’s most versatile diagnostic tools. This course will discuss principles and advantages of using Standardised Contact B-Scan Technique, a systematic examination technique for localization, documentation and evaluation of pathology to assist in diagnoses of the posterior segment. Participants will have the opportunity to apply principles learned utilizing the following equipment:
Accutome...................B-Scan Plus
Ellex...........................eyecubed
Quantel Medical..........AVISO
Sonomed....................MasterVu

Measurement of Visual Acuity
This course has 2 sections:

1. Visual Acuity
• Definition
• Task (detection, recognition, alignment)
• Different test measurements (according to patient age)
• Notation of VA (decimal, scale, Snellen, LogMar)

2. Contrast Sensitivity
• Definition
• Measurement systems
• VA and CSF relationship

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.

 

ESONT, Temple House, Temple Road, Blackrock, Co Dublin, Ireland | phone +35312091100 | fax +35312091112 | email escrs@escrs.org