Dr Chaise and Dr Baudin recently participated in the prestigious ICOOR and FloRetina Congress in Rome, which took place from 30 November to 3 December 2023. This international congress brought together ophthalmologists from around the world to discuss the latest advances and best practices in the field.
Myopia Control
The discussions focused on innovative approaches to slow the progression of myopia, a condition in which the eye is longer than normal, causing blurred distance vision. The treatments discussed included:
- Orthokeratology (Overnight Lenses): This method involves wearing special lenses at night to reshape the cornea. This can improve daytime vision and slow the progression of myopia in children and adolescents.
- Myopia-Slowing Glasses and Lenses: Specially designed glasses and contact lenses can reduce eye strain and slow the progression of myopia. These options are increasingly effective and can be tailored to the specific needs of each patient.
- Refractive Surgery: While less commonly used for myopia control in young patients, refractive surgery is a viable option for correcting myopia in adults. It can provide permanent vision correction. Recent research shows interest in its use for myopia control in young adults.
Surgical Management of Retinal Diseases
Retinal conditions requiring surgery, such as epiretinal membranes and macular holes, can significantly affect vision. The latest surgical advances discussed at the congress included:
- Epimacular Membrane Surgery: The epimacular membrane can cause distortion and loss of vision. Vitrectomy, a surgery that removes the vitreous gel and membrane, is an effective technique to restore vision. Treatment modalities and techniques were discussed.
- Macular Hole Treatment: A macular hole can lead to central vision loss. Vitrectomy with gas or fluid tamponade is the standard treatment, allowing the hole to close and vision to improve.
Innovative Therapies for Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major cause of vision loss in older adults. A significant portion of the congress was dedicated to the latest advances in the treatment of wet AMD, including:
- New Long-Acting Anti-VEGF Drugs: These treatments target vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) to reduce the progression of wet AMD. New medications with prolonged effects reduce the frequency of injections required.
- Gene Therapy: Innovative gene therapies are currently under development to treat wet AMD. They aim to correct defective genes involved in the disease.
Management of Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes that can lead to vision loss. The approaches discussed at the conference included:
- Diabetes Management: Strict control of diabetes is essential to slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
- Laser Treatment: Laser photocoagulation is used to treat abnormal areas of the retina and prevent the progression of the disease.
- Anti-VEGF Injections: Anti-VEGF injections can reduce diabetic macular edema and improve vision.
- Vitreoretinal Surgery: For advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to treat bleeding or retinal detachment.
Implications for Patients
Drs Chaise and Baudin were able to benefit from updated knowledge on these advances. It is crucial for practitioners to continue to learn and stay informed about developments in ophthalmology in order to provide the best possible care to their patients. Drs Chaise and Baudin are determined to apply the knowledge they gained at this conference to improve the care of their patients.
Bibliography
- ICOOR and FloRetina Congress. (2023). Official Congress Programme.
- Myopia Management. (2023). Orthokeratology and Myopia Control.
- Retina Today. (2024). Current and Innovative Techniques.
- Retina Today. (2023). The future of Wet AMD Therapeutics.
- Life. (2023). Update on the Management of Diabetic Retinopathy.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your care, please do not hesitate to contact the Aravis Ophthalmology Centre. Dr Chaise and Dr Baudin would be happy to share their knowledge and recommendations with you to help you preserve your vision.
Your ophthalmologist answers your questions during the consultation. For a sudden symptom or sudden loss of vision, seek advice promptly: see the eye emergencies page.