24th Kuwait Conference
of Ophthalmology

Grand Hyatt Hotel Kuwait, 20-22 Feb 2025

Workshops Agenda Download

WORKSHOP: Gonioscopy - The Golden Tool
On 21 Feb 2025, Time: 09:00 - 09:50

Synopsis Many glaucoma patients are mismanaged because the treating physician simply neglected or incorrectly interpreted the angle examination. This course will cover various aspects of gonioscopy. The importance, indications, techniques, and outcomes, including grading of the angle of the eye and identifying pathological angles, will be discussed. Difficulties and challenges of gonioscopy will be addressed. 

Objective By the end of the course, the attendees should be able to (1) know the applied anatomy of the angle of the eye, (2) be encouraged to do gonioscopy for any glaucoma patient or glaucoma suspect, (3) correctly identify angle structures, (4) differentiate open-angle from closed-angle glaucomas, (5) identify the different lenses and prisms used during gonioscopy, (6) identify angle changes in secondary glaucomas, (7) understand the angle-based procedures, including laser trabeculoplasty and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery and (8) describe the angle-based approaches after glaucoma operations, like ab-interno bleb revision after trabeculectomy and YAG goniopuncture after deep sclerectomy.

Course outlines:

1- Why gonioscopy is important?
2- Important angle landmarks
3- Methods of gonioscopy
4- Interpretation of findings
5- Demonstration of cases with audience involvement 
6- Gonioscopy was the only clue!
6- Surgical gonioscopy

Target audience: General ophthalmologists/ Glaucoma specialists.

Presenter:

Dr. Ahmed Mostafa Abdelrahman, MD, FRCSED is a professor of Ophthalmology and Consultant Glaucoma Surgeon, Cairo University. In 2015, he achieved the Professional Postgraduate Diploma in Total Quality Management (TQM) for Healthcare Reform. Dr. Ahmed is the founding President of the Egyptian Society for Continuous Ophthalmic Education (EGSCOE), 2015.    He is a glaucoma consultant with national, international publications and innovations in the field of glaucoma surgery with special interests in nonpenetrating glaucoma surgeries, Laser trabeculoplasty, Glaucoma Drainage Devices, and childhood glaucomas.   He is also a glaucoma reviewer for several PubMed prestigious Ophthalmology Journals. 

Paul Glaucoma Workshop
On 21 Feb 2025, Time: 10:00 - 11:00

  1. Brief introduction 
  • The PAUL® Glaucoma Implant Wetlab Course is a hands-on surgical training designed for ophthalmologists seeking to enhance their skills in implanting the PAUL® Glaucoma Implant. Participants will receive expert guidance on surgical techniques, implantation steps, and best practices to optimize patient outcomes. The course is ideal for both new and experienced surgeons, this training provides valuable insights into the effective management of refractory glaucoma with the PAUL® Glaucoma Implant.
  1. Learning objectives
  • How to prime a PAUL® implant (flushing the tube & insertion of prolene stent)
  • Positioning of the PAUL® plate 
  • Surgical pearls (shared by instructor)
  1. Target audience
    • Glaucoma surgeons that are interested in learning how to implant a PAUL®
  2. Broad agenda
    • Presentation by Dr Leon Au on PAUL® implantation technique
    • PAUL® implantation procedure wetlab with instructors
    • QnA and surgical pearls

Presenter:

Dr Leon Au is a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon specialising in glaucoma and cornea. He graduated from the University of Nottingham in 1998 with an ophthalmology prize of the year.  He completed 8 years of general ophthalmology training in Nottingham and Manchester before undertaking separate subspecialty training fellowships in cornea, glaucoma and refractive surgery.  He has been a dual-specialty consultant in the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital since February 2009. He is an international leader in the field of innovative glaucoma surgeries and is involved in many of the clinical trials.

Corneal glueing Workshop
On 21 Feb 2025, Time: 11:05 - 11:50

Learning objectives

- Understand the uses and applications of corneal glues
- Recognize when to use the glue and when not to
- Practical application during the workshop

Target audience

- All ophthalmologists

Agenda

- Explanation of the two types of gluing and their uses
- Demonstration on how to use them
- Practical application

Presenter:

Dr. Layalli AlJazzaf
Cornea specialist
Kuwaiti Board-certified ophthalmologist

Basic Suturing Workshop
On 21 Feb 2025, Time: 14:00 - 14:55

Course Overview:
The Basic Suturing Workshop, provides hands-on training in essential suturing techniques for ophthalmologists. This interactive workshop will cover fundamental skills needed for effective suturing in ophthalmic procedures, ensuring participants build confidence and competence in handling delicate ocular tissues. Through practical demonstrations and supervised practice, attendees will learn how to select the appropriate suture materials, execute different types of stitches, and overcome common challenges in suturing.

Learning Objectives
1. Understand the principles of suturing, including needle handling, knot tying, and tissue approximation.
2. Learn and practice different suturing techniques used in ophthalmic surgery, such as interrupted and running sutures.
3. Gain confidence in choosing appropriate suture materials for specific ophthalmic surgeries.

Target Audience
This workshop is designed for ophthalmologists, residents, and medical professionals with an interest in improving their suturing skills for eye surgeries.

Glaucoma through OCT’s eye
On 21 Feb 2025, Time: 15:00 - 16:00

Brief about the Course:

It is a Course on OCT use in glaucoma. Attendees will learn how objective OCT measurements complement the subjective arsenal of other diagnostic tests, such as visual fields, and improve patient care. 

Presenter:

Dr. Roland Seif is an ophthalmologist specializing in the medical and surgical treatment of eye diseases, with a focus on glaucoma and modern cataract surgery. He is an Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the Lebanese American University School of Medicine. Dr. Seif earned his undergraduate degree from the American University of Beirut and his medical degree from the Lebanese American University (LAU). He completed his ophthalmology residency at LAU - Rizk Hospital, where he engaged in research and presented at national and international conferences.

Dr. Seif further specialized with a fellowship in glaucoma and anterior segment surgery at the University of Montreal, Canada. As one of the few glaucoma specialists in Lebanon and the Middle East, he is proficient in both traditional and minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries. He also has a strong interest in modern cataract surgery and premium lenses.

Dr. Seif is an active member of the American Glaucoma Society, the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. He practices at the Lebanese American University Medical Center and Clemenceau Medical Center in Beirut, Lebanon.

Indirect ophthalmoscopy
On 21 Feb 2025, Time: 16:00 - 17:00

Introduction

Understanding the parts and the optical principle of Binocular Indirect Ophthalmoscope (BIO) helps to master performing the procedure of indirect ophthalmoscopy effectively.  

Learning objectives: 

  1. Understand the parts of the Binocular Indirect Ophthalmoscope (BIO).
  2. Comprehend the optical principles involved in indirect ophthalmoscopy.
  3. Recognize the characteristics of different lenses used in BIO.
  4. Perform the procedure of indirect ophthalmoscopy effectively.

Target audience: young ophthalmologists

Agenda:

  1. Parts of BIO
  2. Optical Principle
  3. Lens Characteristics
  4. Factors Affecting Field of View
  5. Image Characteristics
  6. Minimizing Lens Distortion
  7. Filters
  8. Adjusting BIO Headset
  9. Positioning the Patient
  10. Procedure

Demo: There will be a Demo with the Binocular Indirect Ophthalmoscope.

Presenter:

Dr. Amr El-Hariry
Master’s Degree in Ophthalmology, Cairo University
Member of the Royal College of Surgeons (MRCS) in Ophthalmology, Glasgow.
Specialist in Medical Retina, Albahar Eye Center.

IOL Calculation Workshop
On 22 Feb 2025, Time: 09:00 - 10:00

Course Introduction:

This course provides a comprehensive overview of intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation, covering key principles, essential variables, and advanced techniques. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of different IOL formulas, toric IOLs, and special considerations for post-refractive surgery patients. The session will also include case discussions to reinforce practical applications.

 

Learning Objectives:

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  1. Understand the fundamental variables influencing IOL power calculation.
  2. Differentiate between various IOL calculation formulas and their clinical applications.
  3. Apply appropriate IOL calculation strategies in complex cases, including post-myopic LASIK/PRK eyes.

 

Target Audience:

This course is designed for ophthalmologists, optometrists, and eye care professionals involved in cataract surgery planning and intraocular lens selection.

 

Agenda:

  • Introduction to IOL Calculation – Basic principles and importance
  • IOL Calculation Variables – Axial length, keratometry, anterior chamber depth, etc.
  • IOL Calculation Formulas – SRK/T, Barrett, Haigis, Holladay, and their applications
  • Toric IOL Calculation – Astigmatism correction strategies
  • Post-Myopic LASIK/PRK IOL Calculation – Challenges and best practices
  • Case Discussions – Real-world scenarios and Q&A session

 

 

Presenter:

Dr. Ahmed Aldayel

  • Anterior segment consultant at King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital &RC
  • Assistant Professor at Alfaisal University
  • Head of the scientific committee for corneal, external eye disease, and refractive surgery fellowship at SCFHS
ICON™ Ophthalmic Imaging System Course (Retina camera)
On 22 Feb 2025, Time: 10:00 - 10:40

Introduction:

The ICON™ Ophthalmic Imaging System is designed to enhance neonatal and pediatric eye imaging, enabling healthcare professionals to capture high-resolution retinal images, particularly in patients with darkly pigmented fundi. The system's educational resources aim to support clinicians in effectively utilizing the ICON for screening and diagnosing infant and child eye diseases.

 

Learning Objectives:

  1. Understanding the challenges of Neonatal and Pediatric eye imaging: Patient cooperation, Anatomical consideration, Disease presentations.
  2. Mastering ICON Technology: Understand the operational features of the ICON system, including its direct illumination and patented optical design, to obtain high-contrast retinal images.
  3. Implementing Effective Screening Protocols: Learn to integrate the ICON system into neonatal and pediatric ocular screening workflows, adhering to clinical practice guidelines.
  4. Ensuring Patient Safety and Hygiene: Adopt best practices for device handling, including infection control measures and proper disinfection protocols, to maintain patient safety.

Target Audience:

This educational content is intended for ophthalmologists, pediatricians, neonatologists, and allied healthcare professionals involved in neonatal and pediatric eye care.

 

Agenda:

  1. Introduction to pediatric eye imaging:
  • Understanding the Challenges of Neonatal and Pediatric Eye Imaging
  • Mastering Pediatric Retinal Imaging Techniques

2. Introduction to ICON System:

  • Overview of the ICON Ophthalmic Imaging System and its applications in pediatric ophthalmology.

3. Clinical Integration:

  • Discussion on incorporating the ICON system into existing screening programs and workflows.

4. Infection Control Protocols:

  • Guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting the device to prevent cross-contamination.

5. Case Studies and Q&A:

  • Review of clinical cases highlighting the ICON system's utility, followed by an interactive question-and-answer session.

Presenter:

Dr. Bassem BouHabib

Eye Watch Workshop
On 22 Feb 2025, Time: 10:45 - 12:00

Introduction:

In a grown space for tube/ valves the possibility of self-control and regulation of the IOP in the immediate period is crucial to reduce complications as well as to assure success. Rheon’s portfolios of tubes and the Eyewatch is trying to meet that space .

The course will be theoretical, beginner (users of Eyeplate) or intermediate to advanced tube users. The attendees will be able to see and get in contact with the device.

Objectives:

1) understand the basic of the Eyeplate 200, 300 and Eyewatch
2) learn the keys and tips on the technique for implantation
3) post op management
4) question and answers

Presenter:

Konrad Schargel MD, PHD, FEBO  

  • Concordia University, Montreal. Canada
  • University of Monterrey, Mexico
  • Universidad de los Andes, Mérida Venezuela (MD degree)
  • Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas. Venezuela
  • (Ophthalmology degree and PHD)
  • Fellowship in Anterior Segment. Hospital Universitario San Juan de Alicante, Spain
  • Fellowship in Retina Hospital Universitario San Juan de Alicante, Spain
  • Fellowship in glaucoma Hospital Universitario San Juan de Alicante, Spain
  • Glaucoma and Anterior segment Division Chairman. Hospital
  • Universitario San Juan de Alicante, Spain
  • Glaucoma and Ocular Trauma section. Hospital Universitario de Torrevieja. Spain
  • Professor at the School of Optics and Optometry, Universidad de Alicante, Spain. Supervise master’s degree in clinical optometry
  • Glaucoma division Consultant. King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital. Saudi Arabia
  • Adjunct Assistant Professor College of Medicine, AlFaisal University, Riyadh. KSA
  • Glaucoma Division Chairman. King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital. Saudi Arabia
Intravitreal Workshop
On 22 Feb 2025, Time: 13:00 - 14:00

Presenter:

Dr. Nancy Holekamp

Iridex MicroPulse Transscleral Laser Therapy COURSE
On 22 Feb 2025, Time: 14:00 - 15:00

Introduction:

The Iridex MicroPulse Transscleral Laser Therapy course is designed for eye care professionals aiming to enhance their proficiency in administering MicroPulse TLT using the MicroPulse P3® Delivery Device. This advanced training provides in-depth knowledge on the latest techniques and dosing strategies, ensuring participants can achieve consistent and predictable outcomes for glaucoma patients.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Understand the Mechanism of Action: Gain a comprehensive understanding of how MicroPulse TLT operates to lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients.
  2. Master Surgical Techniques: Learn the optimal surgical techniques and treatment enhancements to maximize patient outcomes.
  3. Implement Best Practices: Adopt pre- and post-operative best practices to ensure patient safety and improve treatment efficacy.

Target Audience:

This course is intended for ophthalmologists and eye care professionals who are currently performing or planning to perform MicroPulse Transscleral Laser Therapy, particularly those using the MicroPulse P3® Delivery Device for Glaucoma patients.

Agenda:

  • Clinical Data and Consensus Review: Examine the latest clinical data and consensus guidelines on MicroPulse TLT.
  • Patient Selection Criteria: Identify suitable candidates for MicroPulse TLT to optimize treatment success.
  • Surgical Technique and Treatment Enhancements: Detailed walkthrough of the procedure, including tips for effective application and recent advancements.
  • Pre and Post-Operative Best Practices: Guidelines to manage patient care before and after the procedure to ensure optimal outcomes. 

Presenter:

Dr. Mahmood A. Kazem (FRCS-Canada).
Consultant Ophthalmologist at Adan Hospital and Kuwait Specialized Eye Center.
Cataract and glaucoma surgeon

Way Towards Beautiful Scars
On 22 Feb 2025, Time: 15:00 - 16:00

Workshop Brief

The attendees will learn about advanced modalities for scar management. They will also get updates on scar treatments

 

Target audience

Plastic Surgeons, Oculoplastic Surgeons, etc.

 

 

Presenter:

Dr Zainab Akbar

Pediatric dermatologist certified from McGill university.

Trained in vascular malformations and hemangiomas.

Specialized in laser and cosmetic surgery at McGill university.

Trained in belphorpalsties and liposuction with fat transplant.  

 

Workshop on Retinopathy of Prematurity: Practical Approaches
On 21 Feb 0025, Time: 15:00 - 16:30

Introduction:
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is an eye disease that can affect premature babies, where abnormal blood vessels grow in the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye), potentially leading to vision loss or blindness if left untreated.

With the survival of smaller premature babies, the incidence of ROP is on the rise globally.

ROP Screening is difficult and requires doctors with specialized training in examining the paediatric retina. Indirect ophthalmoscopy is difficult to use in infants and has a long learning curve. It may take several weeks of training to accurately screen for ROP.

Many regional medical centres with large birthing centres around the world do not have trained staff to effectively screen these infants for ROP. So, there is an urgent need to start ROP training programs in centres where this expertise is already available.

Learning objective :
This course will  cover topics such as risk factors, classification, and treatment strategies 

Duration: The course will be for an hour and half 
Lecture : 45  mnts 
Discussion : 10 mnts 
Demonstration on dummy eyes -30 mnts with Pediatric fundus camera 

Break : 5 minutes 

Target Audience:
Residents, Practicing ophthalmologist, Ophthalmic Nurses, Paediatrician, Neonatologist

Agenda :
1 ROP : Secrets About risk factors,clinical picture classification and important landmarks: Prof Dr Rajvardhan Azad 
2 ROP : Antivegf update: Prof Dr Rajvardhan Azad 
3 ROP Today: Prof Dr Rajvardhan Azad 
4 Demo on Pediatric fundus camera: Dr Niranjan kumar 

About The course director :

Prof. (Dr.) Rajvardhan Azad is a distinguished clinician, educator, and researcher with over 40 years of expertise in eye care. He earned his MD in Ophthalmology from Dr. R.P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, AIIMS, New Delhi, where he later became a Professor and served as Chief (2011–2014) of the Prestigious centre . 

A Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh (FRCS), Academy of Medical Sciences (FAMS), college of ophthalmologist Sri Lanka and many other prestigious institutions, Prof. Azad has been advisor to Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, Armed Forces Medical Services, and Vision 2020 India. He was also President of National Board of Examination NBE 2001-2004 and chairman of PG Program in MCI. 

He was Secretary of AIOS for 6 yrs and then elected as President in 2009-2011.He also served as President of Vitreoretinal society of India. As Secretary General of the SAARC Academy of Ophthalmology (SAO), he played a key role in reviving SAO and introducing the ICO-SAARC fellowship for young ophthalmologists. He was also the Regional Secretary of the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO).

Currently, he serves as an Advisor to the National Task Force on Retinopathy of 1Prematurity (ROP) and the State Key Laboratory in Guangzhou, China. He is also an Honorary Professor at Zhongshan Ophthalmic Centre, Sun Yat-Sen University.

Prof. Azad is Chairman is now Chairman of the Clinical and Research advisory board of Akhand Jyoti eye hospital and Raj Retina and Eye Care Centre in Patna and Director of ROP Services at Bharti Eye Hospital, New Delhi. He is also the chairman of ophthalmic education committee of APAO and President of South Asian Academy of ophthalmology SAO ,

A leading vitreo-retinal surgeon, he specializes in pediatric retina, ROP, retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, and ARMD. His research has contributed to understanding the role of the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) in ROP, stem cell therapy, VEGF mechanisms, and gene expression. He also identified new anti-angiogenic drugs from marine isolates in a rat model of ROP. His innovations include modified needle drainage for retinal detachment and ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) in late-stage ROP.

Prof. Azad was  a Visiting Professor at institutions like the University of Texas and the University of Toronto. He has published 12 books,400 + peer reviewed  research papers, and 60+ book chapters. He is on the editorial board of many  leading ophthalmology journals and has received 50+ awards, including the De O’Campo Oration from APAO , Hose Rizal highest Award of  APAO, Dr. B.C. Roy National Award. Latest in addition is International council of ophthalmology Award name GOlden apple Award for 2025. 

He also served as the first Indian President of APAO in 2013-2015 .He is conferred with International council ophthalmology Award named Mark Tso Golden apple Award of ICO.