Eye Views

Consultant Ophthalmologist Nishani Amerasinghe joins host Lorcan Butler on the Eye Views podcast to discuss her passion for glaucoma. She explains how the specialty’s inquisitive community and numerous unanswered questions initially drew her in. With rapid advancements in surgical technologies, she highlights why glaucoma has become such a fantastic and boundary-pushing field for specialists today. Amerasinghe also highlights why now is the most exciting time for specialists and trainees to enter the field, including Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) and the 'explosion' of angle surgery and new implants that has revolutionised surgical intervention; advanced laser treatments, such as how the shift from conventional Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) to Direct Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (DSLT) is helping clinics manage backlogs more efficiently; AI is also increasingly utilised for diagnosis and monitoring, marking the next major milestone in glaucoma management; and pharmaceutical innovation, with the arrival of Rocklatan and how the field saw its first new drop in 25 years, alongside developing novel drug delivery systems that reduce reliance on patient compliance.A central theme of the discussion is the lifelong relationship between a glaucoma specialist and their patient. Amerasinghe speaks to how many patients associate a glaucoma diagnosis with immediate blindness; the specialist's role is to show them they can live well, drive, and maintain hobbies. Utilising organisations like Glaucoma UK for patient information and 'buddy systems' helps patients navigate the lifestyle nuances of the disease.As a past president of the UK and Eire Glaucoma Society (UKEGS), Amerasinghe encourages trainees to reach out to the "inquisitive" and "approachable" glaucoma community. She notes that social media—specifically LinkedIn and Instagram—has made mentorship more accessible than ever before.Eye News is the longest-running print and digital magazine dedicated to ophthalmology in the UK, with an international and domestic readership of healthcare professionals, both within the NHS and private healthcare practices. Season 2 of Eye Views is proudly sponsored by Mainline Instruments. Visit their website here: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0rc4Th0 To reach their team, email: [email protected]

In this episode of the Eye Views podcast, host Lorcan Butler engages in a deep-dive conversation with Brendan Cummings, a consultant ophthalmologist and refractive surgeon. Based in Dublin at the Wellington Eye Clinic and a central hospital, Cummings brings a unique perspective on the convergence of traditional cataract surgery and modern refractive techniques.The discussion centers on the philosophy that cataract surgery is a refractive procedure. Cummings explains that achieving optimal outcomes requires a highly personalized approach, often involving a two-and-a-half-hour evaluation to align surgical options with a patient’s lifestyle, visual needs, and priorities. He introduces the critical concept of "compromise" in lens selection, noting that while broader ranges of vision offer greater spectacle independence, they often involve a trade-off in visual quality.A major theme of the episode is ocular surface optimization. Cummings emphasizes that no surgery should proceed without a healthy ocular surface, as suboptimal tears can lead to post-operative dissatisfaction and dry eye symptoms. He details the clinic's diagnostic and treatment strategies, including diagnostics (measuring tear meniscus height, non-invasive tear breakup time, and tear film osmolarity) and treatments (managing blepharitis, utilizing IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy, and performing meibomian gland expression or probing).The conversation also highlights the vital role of community optometrists in the "health ecosystem". Cummings advocates for strong referral pathways, noting that community optometrists are often best positioned to manage pre-surgical ocular surface health and provide long-term patient education.Eye News is the longest-running print and digital magazine dedicated to ophthalmology in the UK, with an international and domestic readership of healthcare professionals, both within the NHS and private healthcare practices. Season 2 of Eye Views is proudly sponsored by Mainline Instruments. Visit their website here: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0rc4Th0 To reach their team, email: [email protected]

Join host Lorcan Butler for a fascinating episode of the Eye Views podcast, featuring consultant ophthalmologist and corneal surgeon Aisling Higham. In this deep dive, Higham discusses her dual role as a clinician in Oxford and the Medical Director of Euphonia, an innovative company at the forefront of medical AI.Discover how Dora, a groundbreaking conversational AI assistant, is revolutionizing clinical pathways by automating repetitive conversations between doctors and patients. Higham shares insights from over 120,000 clinical interactions, explaining how this technology is currently being used to streamline cataract follow-ups and improve service efficiency across the UK, US, Canada, and the Netherlands.Key topics covered in this episode include the origin of Dora and how a frustration with repetitive clinical dialogue led to the development of an AI capable of handling routine follow-up activities; breaking language barriers and how insights into current trials at Moorfields Eye Hospital to validate Dora across 10 different languages, including Turkish and Polish; and moving beyond ophthalmology, Higham discusses how conversational AI can be applied to various medical specialties and the ethical frameworks needed for its growth.Whether you are an eyecare professional, a tech enthusiast, or a patient curious about the future of medicine, this episode offers a unique look at how artificial intelligence is becoming a trusted partner in the clinic.Follow Eye News for more insights into the world of ophthalmology and vision scienceEye News is the longest-running print and digital magazine dedicated to ophthalmology in the UK, with an international and domestic readership of healthcare professionals, both within the NHS and private healthcare practices. Season 2 of Eye Views is proudly sponsored by Mainline Instruments. Visit their website here: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0rc4Th0 To reach their team, email: [email protected]

In this episode of the Eye Views podcast, presented by Eye News Magazine, host Lorcan Butler sits down with Gok Ratnarajan, a prominent Consultant Ophthalmologist and Head of Glaucoma at Queen Victoria Hospital. Together, they explore the often-overlooked but vital "soft skill" of communication in ophthalmology.Ratnarajan shares deep insights into how effective communication serves as the cornerstone of patient care, especially when managing chronic conditions like glaucoma. He discusses his personal journey from medical school at UCL to becoming a specialist, noting that while technical skills are taught rigorously, the nuances of the "real world" and breaking life-changing news are often learned through experience.Eye News is the longest-running print and digital magazine dedicated to ophthalmology in the UK, with an international and domestic readership of healthcare professionals, both within the NHS and private healthcare practices. Season 2 of Eye Views is proudly sponsored by Mainline Instruments. Visit their website here: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0rc4Th0 To reach their team, email: [email protected]

This episode of the Eye Views podcast from Eye News Magazine features a deep dive into the evolving world of ophthalmic surgery and its direct impact on patient quality of life. Host Lorcan Butler sits down with Professor Dan Lindfield, a renowned Consultant Ophthalmologist from Guildford and Professor at City University of London, to discuss the intersection of glaucoma management and premium lens technology.As the boundaries between cataract refractive surgery and glaucoma treatment continue to blur, Professor Lindfield explores how technological shifts are moving clinicians beyond traditional monofocal lenses. The discussion focuses on the rise of Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) and enhanced monofocal lenses, which offer patients significant improvements in intermediate vision and reduced spectacle dependence without the light-splitting drawbacks of older multifocal designs.Eye News is the longest-running print and digital magazine dedicated to ophthalmology in the UK, with an international and domestic readership of healthcare professionals, both within the NHS and private healthcare practices. Season 2 of Eye Views is proudly sponsored by Mainline Instruments. Visit their website here: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0rc4Th0 To reach their team, email: [email protected]

In this episode of the Eye Views podcast, our host Lorcan Butler speaks with Masara Laginaf, a consultant ophthalmologist specialising in cornea, cataract and refractive surgery. In this deep dive into anterior segment care, they explore the transition to private practice, the latest in femtosecond laser technology, and the management of presbyopia and ocular surface disease. From LASIK and lenticule extraction to implantable contact lenses (ICL) and refractive lens exchange (RLE), this episode covers the essential surgical and diagnostic tools for modern eyecare professionals.Dr Laginaf shares her "fortuitous" journey into the refractive space, highlighting the critical role of mentorship and high-volume surgical training. She details her experience in the Kent, Surrey, and Sussex Deanery and fellowships at Frimley Park and Luton and Dunstable, where she gained exposure to complex corneal transplants and refractive procedures. For trainees (ST3–ST7), she recommends leveraging resources like the Royal College of Ophthalmologists e-learning, ESCRS and ISRS modules.A turning point in Dr Laginaf’s career was undergoing LASIK surgery herself in 2020 at OCL Vision. She discusses how being on the other side of the laser enhanced her ability to counsel patients on the sensations of surgery, such as the pressure of the suction ring, and the immediate visual recovery. This personal perspective allows her to relate deeply to patient fears regarding optical appliances and the life-changing impact of vision correction.The conversation shifts to the rapidly evolving tech landscape, including lenticule extraction, comparing SMILE with newer platforms like the Schwind ATOS (SmartSight), which Dr. Laginaf notes can lead to fewer dry eye symptoms. Premium IOLs are discussed and Dr Laginaf's early adoption of the Rayner Galaxy spiral-optic lens. Dr Laginaf also covers presbyopia management and navigating the "longest conversation" in clinic by balancing monovision, blended vision, and emerging technologies like scleral laser micro-perforation or EDOF ICLs.Dr Laginaf emphasises that every refractive surgeon must also be a dry eye specialist. She outlines her strict preoperative protocols to optimise the tear film, including zest (okra-based) lid cleaning and IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy to treat blepharitis and MGD. The importance of repeat biometry and K-readings when the ocular surface is unstable to ensure refractive accuracy.With the rise of 'Zoom gloom' and heavy digital device use, patient demands for intermediate and near vision have never been higher. The episode concludes with a discussion on managing expectations around night driving and the 'governmental inquiry' into levels of glare from modern car headlights, reassuring patients that neuroadaptation typically improves these symptoms over 6–12 months.Eye News is the longest-running print and digital magazine dedicated to ophthalmology in the UK, with an international and domestic readership of healthcare professionals, both within the NHS and private healthcare practices. Season 2 of Eye Views is proudly sponsored by Mainline Instruments. Visit their website here: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0rc4Th0 To reach their team, email: [email protected]

In this episode of the Eye Views podcast from Eye News, host Lorcan Butler speaks with Lucia Pelosini, a consultant ophthalmologist at King's College Hospital, London, about the crucial and expanding role of the Oculus Pentacam in ophthalmology and anterior segment imaging. The discussion highlights how the Pentacam has evolved from a dedicated diagnostic device for cornea anterior topography to a tool used for a full examination of the anterior segment.The Oculus Pentacam is used daily in a busy practice, and its versatility is a key focus of Dr Pelosini's episode. The discussion covers several critical applications such as the Pentacam's vital screening capabilities and significant educational value for patients. Clinicians can show pictures to patients to explain pathology and clinical decisions, which saves time and is engaging for patients, who often say they finally understand their problem.The Oculus Pentacam is central to the diagnostic platform for patients with corneal diseases like keratoconus or corneal dystrophy. It helps detect early-stage keratoconus, which is important for planning interventions like collagen cross-linking or corneal rings to slow disease progression. It also assesses the densitometry of the cornea. This is critical for patients with dystrophies, such as Fuch's disease, to understand how much visual function is impacted by corneal abnormalities versus lens cloudiness. It also performs pachymetry measurements, assessing the central, paracentric, and peripheral cornea. It also provides a correcting factor to apply to IOP measurements for glaucoma patients.The Oculus Pentacam offers a 3D reconstruction and objective measurements of the anterior chamber depth and angle depth from 25 different directions. This is used for glaucoma patients, assessing drainage tubes, and pre-operative planning for phakic IOLs. The device examines the crystalline lens and its densitometry. It has a grading system for nuclear sclerosis, which is useful for risk assessment and assigning cases to surgeons of different levels in a tertiary hospital setting.The Oculus Pentacam is a 'critical examination' for calculating the IOL power for patients with a history of LASIK or radial keratotomy. By measuring the posterior corneal surface, it significantly increases the reliability and precision of the lens implant prediction. It also helps examine the cornea for complications like a flap fold or epithelial ingrowth.For premium IOLs (multifocal IOLs or toric IOLs), the Oculus Pentacam provides the total corneal refractive power, aberrometry, and refraction. It measures pupil size (in dim and bright light) and detects higher-order aberrations, helping clinicians select the correct lens for the patient.Retroillumination is vital for assessing the position of a toric IOL post-surgery. The Oculus Pentacam features software to identify the precise IOL axis and guide the clinician on how many degrees and in which direction the lens needs to be realigned.The discussion emphasises the logistical advantage of having one diagnostic platform that can quickly perform five different assessments (tomography, topography, biometry, refraction, aberrometry, and retroillumination). Eye News is the longest-running print and digital magazine dedicated to ophthalmology in the UK, with an international and domestic readership of healthcare professionals, both within the NHS and private healthcare practices. Season 2 of Eye Views is proudly sponsored by Mainline Instruments. Visit their website here: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0rc4Th0 To reach their team, email: [email protected]

In this episode of the Eye Views Podcast from Eye News magazine, host Lorcan Butler welcomes Consultant Ophthalmologist Professor Philip Bloom from Western Eye Hospital to discuss the exciting new advances in lens technology and design.Professor Bloom details the shift in cataract surgery goals to, if possible, achieving complete spectacle independence, especially for distance. He explains that this is now achievable in the NHS with the addition of Toric intraocular lenses, enabling many patients to drive without glasses after cataract surgery.The discussion covers the progression in intraocular lens (IOL) options, from monofocal lenses to enhanced monofocal lenses, extended depth of focus (EDOF) lenses, multifocal/trifocal lenses, and the newest continuous range of vision lenses. Professor Bloom shares that while most advanced lenses are in the private sector, enhanced monofocal lenses are increasingly available in many NHS units through the procurement process. He notes that with techniques like mini-monovision, he can confidently offer patients independence from driving and computer glasses, and a lot of independence from reading tasks.A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the challenges and differences between private and NHS practice regarding IOLs. Professor Bloom acknowledges that managed healthcare, even in the private sector, often restricts coverage for the most expensive lenses, leading to patient 'top-ups'. He advocates for allowing top-ups in the NHS to give patients a greater selection of lenses, despite concerns about increased chair time and the management of complications like Toric lens rotation. He stresses the importance of clinicians advocating for their patients.The conversation then pivots to other advancements in the field, including the rise of immediate sequential bilateral cataract surgery (ISBCS), which became more widely adopted post-lockdown as an efficient use of resources to tackle huge backlogs. Professor Bloom also discusses the light adjustable lens (LAL) technology, calling it "extremely interesting", and the ongoing debate between laser and lens-based spectacle independence for pre-presbyopic and presbyopic patients.Finally, Professor Bloom shares his expertise in glaucoma management, focusing on MicroPulse Transcleral Laser Therapy (MP-TLT) and Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS). He is a lead investigator for a national registry study on MicroPulse, set up to generate efficacy evidence after a 2021 NICE ruling. He emphasises that the goal of glaucoma surgery, like cataract surgery, is to achieve independence – in this case, from daily eye drops, which can cause significant side effects and inconvenience. He concludes that MIGS has been a "great addition" to patient care.Eye News is the longest-running print and digital magazine dedicated to ophthalmology in the UK, with an international and domestic readership of healthcare professionals, both within the NHS and private healthcare practices. Season 2 of Eye Views is proudly sponsored by Mainline Instruments. Visit their website here: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0rc4Th0 To reach their team, email: [email protected]

In this episode of the #EyeViews podcast from Eye News, host Loren Butler is joined by Consultant Ophthalmologist Dr Iain Livingstone to discuss the transformative role of mobile technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in eyecare, specifically within patient pathways for ophthalmology and optometry. The discussion begins with how a smartphone can assist an eye specialist and their patient. Dr Livingstone recounts his early innovation as a registrar, developing an app called Eyesight Test (one of the first to be CE marked) by scaling Kay's Picture Tests on his phone. This initial project affirmed his interest in mobile technology and led to the founding of Peak Vision, a technology which allows the extraction of a beautiful picture of the optic disc with zero experience, mobilising the eye clinic and enabling transatlantic retinal exams.The conversation moves to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, where their work in peer-to-peer video conferencing and decision support rapidly mobilised a decision-support service across optometry in Scotland, particularly Central Scotland. This placed them unexpectedly in the public health space. By leveraging systems like NHS Near Me (re-labeled Attend Anywhere) and equipping optometrists with tools like the video slit lamp, the eye casualty was spread across the community.Dr Livingstone emphasises the continued focus on consolidating and maximising the link between community optometry and secondary/tertiary care. Strategies for maintaining this relationship include increasing independent prescribing and utilising simulation for training, shifting from "see one, do one, teach one" to "do one virtually a hundred times" before the first real case. The role of safety netting and understanding the attitude to risk and comfort with uncertainty are crucial in this blended care model.Discussing the origins of his involvement in digital tech, Dr Livingstone calls it his "burnout prevention part of the week" and explains it originated from the need for remote support as a first-on consultant with no juniors. The segment on patient-centered care explores the impact of mobile technology for the patient, citing a case where a patient with a cavernous sinus fistula was directed straight to neurosurgeons, bypassing the ophthalmology department, after a video consultation. However, Dr Livingstone cautions that the technology is not a panacea, noting a case where relying solely on the video call missed the crucial detail of dangerously high intraocular pressure in a young patient with a hyphaema.Regarding uptake, he notes that technology is a "totally polarizing prospect" among colleagues. While some embrace it, others see it as a distraction from an already saturated service. The lack of change in job plans to accommodate the time needed for unscheduled care and the subsequent drop in usage since the pandemic are significant challenges. He shares an example of successful video-first services at Moorfields Eye Hospital, where a 999 call can lead to a video consultation with an eye health specialist. Dr Livingstone's dream is to have a team of video-first ophthalmologists working across boards in Scotland to protect time for unscheduled care, especially in remote areas.Finally, Dr Livingstone addresses the use of AI in daily practice, emphasising the need for transparency, being the "biggest critic," and taking full responsibility. He quotes a colleague: "AI won't replace a doctor, but it will make you a more competitive doctor than your colleagues," arguing that not using it is a disadvantage. For those interested in AI, Dr Livingstone encourages them to start, noting the rise of "vibe coding" (describing what you want and letting AI create it) allows for rapid prototyping without a computing degree, making it a great time to be interested in digital tech in healthcare.

Why do ophthalmology conferences matter? David Lockington shares how UKISCRS and other meetings help young ophthalmologists grow, present, network and succeed.Eye Views is proudly sponsored by Mainline Instruments, and was filmed on location at both UKEGS 2025 and UKISCRS 2025. In the first episode from Season 2 of Eye Views, the ophthalmology podcast from Eye News, host Lorcan Butler, speaks with David who is a consultant ophthalmologist and president of UKISCRS. They talk about the importance of attending and engaging in ophthalmology conferences. This episode highlights the value of networking for career growth in medicine. This is just the first episode in which you can stay informed with insights from leading experts in the field.From first presentations to international podiums, David shares a candid and practical guide to navigating the ophthalmology conference landscape – including UKISCRS, RCOphth Congress, and major European and US ophthalmology conferences. He reflects on how conferences go far beyond keynote lectures, offering vital opportunities for career development, mentorship, collaboration, research presentation and lifelong learning.The discussion explores how young ophthalmologists and trainees can make the most of conferences, including submitting abstracts, presenting free papers and posters, attending young ophthalmologist programmes, and engaging in dry labs and simulation training. David explains how these environments allow early-career ophthalmologists to develop presentation skills, refine clinical thinking and build relationships that can shape future fellowships and consultant careers.David also addresses common barriers to conference attendance in ophthalmology, including cost, NHS study leave limitations, family commitments and imposter syndrome, offering realistic advice on how to invest wisely in yourself and your professional development. He highlights how conferences democratise access to mentors, foster corridor conversations that improve patient care, and create safe spaces for discussing complex cases.A major theme is the pathway to the podium: how to move from clinical curiosity to publishable research and memorable presentations. David shares practical tips on abstract submission, storytelling in scientific talks, timekeeping and delivering high-impact presentations that stand out.The episode also examines the role of social media in ophthalmology, how it complements conferences by widening audiences, and how clinicians can use platforms such as LinkedIn responsibly to build community rather than self-promotion. Industry partnerships, trade exhibitions and the importance of working with ophthalmic technology providers are also discussed, highlighting how innovation showcased at conferences directly benefits patient care.Whether you are a trainee attending your first ophthalmology conference, a young ophthalmologist aiming to present, or a seasoned clinician looking to stay inspired, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and actionable advice on how conferences can keep the fire burning throughout a career in ophthalmology.Season 2 of Eye Views is proudly sponsored by Mainline Instruments. Visit their website here: https://www.main-line.co.uk/ To get in touch with their team, reach out to: [email protected] 2 was filmed on location at the following conferences:UKEGS 2025: https://glaucoma.uk/ukegs/UKISCRS 2025: https://www.ukiscrs.org.uk/