Events

Event Location: Prema Clinic, PO6 4RP

Event Date: 01.12.26

Overview
Hosted by Miss Nishani Amerasinghe, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon, this interactive session introduces optometrists to ELIOS (Excimer Laser Trabeculostomy). ELIOS is a minimally invasive, implant-free procedure for lowering intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
ELIOS uses a 308 nm “cold” excimer laser, delivered ab interno, to create a series of micro-channels through the trabecular meshwork into Schlemm’s canal. This restores the eye’s natural outflow pathway without leaving a device in the eye and with minimal thermal damage to surrounding tissue. It can be performed as a standalone procedure or combined with cataract surgery.

Miss Amerasinghe will place ELIOS within the wider glaucoma treatment pathway, from topical therapy and SLT through to other MIGS and traditional filtering surgery. She will cover which patients are likely to benefit, the evidence for reducing IOP and medication use, and the safety profile. The session pays particular attention to the optometrist’s role: recognising suitable candidates, explaining the option to patients, making appropriate referrals, and recognising what is normal and abnormal after surgery during co-managed follow-up.

The session includes a practical, hands-on element. Delegates will try the ELIOS technique for themselves using a miniature 3D model of the eye, which gives a real sense of how the laser micro-channels are created within the drainage angle. Microscope demonstrations will let delegates view the anatomy and surgical approach up close, bringing the theory to life and building confidence when discussing the procedure with patients.

The session closes with case discussions and Q&A. It is relevant to community optometrists, those working in glaucoma referral refinement or enhanced services, and independent prescribers with an interest in glaucoma.

Learning objectives

By the end of this session, delegates will be able to:

  1. Describe the mechanism of action of ELIOS and explain how it differs from SLT, implant-based MIGS and traditional glaucoma surgery. (Clinical practice)
  2. Identify patients who may be suitable for ELIOS, including relevant indications, contraindications and the role of combined cataract surgery. (Clinical practice)
  3. Summarise current evidence on ELIOS outcomes, including IOP reduction, reduced medication burden and safety profile. (Clinical practice)
  4. Communicate the benefits, risks and realistic expectations of ELIOS to patients in clear, accessible language that supports informed decision-making. (Communication)
  5. Recognise expected post-operative findings and the signs that need prompt referral back to the surgical team. (Clinical practice / Professionalism)
  6. Apply appropriate referral criteria and contribute effectively to shared-care pathways between community optometry and the surgical team. (Leadership and accountability)
  7. Demonstrate an understanding of the ELIOS surgical approach and the anatomy of the drainage angle through hands-on simulation using a 3D eye model and microscope-based demonstration. (Clinical practice)

Event Location: Prema Clinic, PO6 4RP

Event Date: 20.05.26(Past event)

Summary of Presentation / Event

This CPD session, delivered by Miss Kelly Weston, provides a comprehensive overview of childhood strabismus, a common ocular condition characterised by misalignment of the eyes. The presentation reviews key aspects of clinical assessment, highlighting essential examination techniques and indicators for referral. The session covers amblyopia and its management, including optical correction, occlusion therapy and its evidence base, and when urgent referral is required.  The presentation aims to enhance clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes. Consideration is also given to potential complications and the broader psychosocial impact of the condition.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

1. Define strabismus, amblyopia and their main classifications .
2. Understand the common types of childhood strabismus and their associated features.
3. Conduct an appropriate clinical assessment for children presenting with suspected strabismus.
4. Recognise red flags and determine when referral to specialist services is required.
5. Outline the range of management options, including both non-surgical and surgical approaches.
6. Appreciate the potential complications and long-term impact of strabismus on patients.

Event Location: Prema Clinic, PO6 4RP

Event Date: 23.04.26(Past event)

This session is presented in two parts and aims to enhance both professional development and clinical knowledge within optometric practice.

Part 1 – The Expert Myth: Thinking Smart to Gain Expertise in Eye Care

This section challenges the assumption that expertise is simply the result of time and experience in practice. Instead, it explores five key ingredients required for developing true expertise. These principles will be illustrated using examples from everyday optometric practice, including refraction, clinical observation, case review and patient communication. Participants will be encouraged to consider how routine clinical activities can be used as deliberate learning opportunities. The discussion will highlight strategies that allow practitioners at all stages of their career—from newly qualified clinicians to experienced professionals—to continually improve their clinical judgement and diagnostic accuracy.

Part 2 – Entoptic Phenomena and Their Application in Optometric Practice

The second part of the session focuses on entoptic phenomena: visual sensations arising from structures within the eye or visual pathway. By examining these phenomena, practitioners gain insight into ocular anatomy, physiology and visual processing. The session will review common entoptic phenomena encountered by patients and discuss how understanding these experiences can assist optometrists in differentiating normal visual effects from pathological symptoms. The discussion will also highlight how entoptic phenomena can be used as educational tools when explaining visual symptoms to patients and supporting clinical decision-making.