Australian cataract surgeons are at a major disadvantage when compared to their European counterparts, according to the keynote speaker at an upcoming conference for the Australasian Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons.
Belgian and eye surgeon Dr. Erik Mertens says this is because a wider range of IOL models are available in Europe.
“IOLs are a well-established technology in cataract surgery and refractive lens exchange,” Dr. Mertens said. “When surgeons have more ability, more models, they can better select the IOL model that is the best choice for a patient, taking into account the patient’s daily activities, and so on.”
Dr. Mertens, who currently serves as the Director and Ophthalmic Surgeon at the Medipolis Eye Center in Antwerp, Belgium, is one of the confirmed speakers for the prestigious AUSCRS conference, which will this year celebrate its 18th year, adopting the theme “Forever Young”.
AUSCRS continues to remain inquisitive, fresh, fun, honest, open and flexible – forever young
The AUSCRS meeting will be held at Port Douglas in Queensland from 31 July–2 August.
AUSCRS President Graham Barrett said “18 usually marks the transition to adulthood, but the real meaning of youth has nothing to do with physical age”.
“Our 2014 Forever Young Conference will showcase how AUSCRS continues to remain inquisitive, fresh, fun, honest, open and flexible – forever young,” he said.
In addition to Dr. Mertens’ presentation on the advantages of diffractive trifocal IOLs, laser cataract surgery will remain a hot topic.
Other confirmed speakers include the highly awarded Dr. Robert “Bobby” Osher and Dr. Robert Weinstock, both from the United States.
Dr. Osher has achieved worldwide recognition in cataract surgery. He has designed many of the contemporary intraocular lenses and instruments used in cataract surgery, in addition to developing new techniques in this sub-speciality.
Dr. Weinstock is also internationally recognised as an expert on new implant technology and microincisional surgical technicques. He has authored many book chapters on cataract surgery and continues to write journal articles on cataract and refractive surgery.
“This year will also focus on our Young Fellows and Graduates who will have dedicated sessions, in addition to an extensive support staff program,” Associate Professor Barrett said.
The AUSCRS will be calling for abstracts, and will release the 2014 program on its website: www.auscrs2014.org.au