by Jonathan YM Lai, PGY4 Doctor, Liverpool, UK.
A significant international ophthalmology congress concluded last year following four intensive days of workshops, lectures and plenaries focused on advancing eyecare, addressing global health inequities, and embracing technological innovation. The event brought together leading experts, researchers and practitioners to share critical updates across all major subspecialties, with a foundational commitment to improving vision in low-resource communities and ensuring the sustainability of practice.
Day 1: Focus on equity: the global eye health workshop
The congress kicked off with a dedicated Global Eye Health Workshop, with opening sessions centring on the practical diagnosis and management of common corneal conditions, including infectious keratitis, trauma and complex surgical protocols for various corneal diseases.
The workshop’s afternoon programme focused squarely on solutions and scale. Discussions highlighted the integration of appropriate technology, including AI, to expand clinical reach. The impact of teleophthalmology, drawing on successful international models, was showcased as a critical tool for remote care. The importance of leveraging digital platforms for remote consultation and knowledge sharing also featured prominently.
Day 2: Strategic vision and subspecialty advancements
The second day featured the RANZCO plenary and comprehensive subspecialty update lectures. Leaders provided updates on their respective Vision 2030 strategic frameworks, outlining progress and future objectives across Australia and New Zealand. A major thematic thread was sustainability in ophthalmic practice, with presentations detailing the development of sustainable practice guides and case studies demonstrating substantial cost and waste reductions through the adoption of reusable instruments.
Day 3: Genetics, oncology and global disease
The programme continued with high-impact keynote lectures addressing genetics, oncology and major infectious diseases. A specialised lecture explored the genetic basis for eye disease in specific populations within the Pacific, tracing the journey and admixture that has resulted in a unique genetic signature for inherited conditions. The day concluded with social events, including a poster and film festival, showcasing incredible innovation and talent in the field.
Day 4: Clinical controversies and future horizons
The Council Lecture focused on central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO), emphasising its recognition as an acute ocular stroke. The speaker evaluated the feasibility of potential therapeutic options, showing that early intervention may be associated with improved visual recovery, while strongly highlighting the crucial role of identifying and modifying secondary vascular risk factors. The Gregg Lecture detailed the evolution and expanding role of the surgical endoscope. The presentation traced how this technology has revolutionised minimally invasive surgery, acting as a critical adjunct to orbital surgery. The congress concluded with a focus on the global frontiers in AI and ophthalmology and the clinical controversies plenary, concluding the event with a powerful mix of learning and reflection on the future shape of eyecare.
