EXPLORE THE PRACTICE RESOURCE CENTRE – we are pleased to share the new PRC promotional video. In just over two minutes, we highlight the benefits of the site for seasoned practitioners and those just starting their career, how to easily submit ideas and resources, how to create a custom reading list, and much more.

Glaucoma OCT Interpretation is an online, Section 3 accredited course available at EyeCarePD.com. A game-based approach is applied to learning OCT interpretation. This course covers commonly encountered OCT presentations of glaucoma as seen on standard optic nerve head and retinal nerve fiber layer scan protocols with the purpose of improving interpretation skills using perceptual learning strategies.

Getting started is easy: 

1. Using the Google Chrome browser, navigate to https://eyecarepd.com/catalog/glaucoma-group/
2. Select Glaucoma OCT Interpretation 101 (COS Accredited) and add the product to the cart
3. At checkout, use the coupon code ECPDCOSGLAUCOMA to set the price to 0.
4. Your course is now available under My Courses at the top of the screen. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify segmentation errors and their role in OCT scan interpretation
2. Utilize varying sections of the OCT report including tabular data, sector analysis and graphical displays
3. Interact with expert interpretation in order to compare their findings in selected cases

Accreditation

This activity is an Accredited Self-Assessment Program (Section 3) as defined by the Maintenance of Certification program of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. This web-based lesson was approved by the COS on October 23rd, 2020 and expires October 2023. Remember to visit MAINPORT to record your learning and outcomes. You may claim a maximum of 1 hour (credits are automatically calculated).

This activity was co-developed with EyeCarePD and the Canadian Ophthalmological Society (COS) and was planned to achieve scientific integrity, objectivity and balance.

Access Details
To participate in this course visit https://eyecarepd.com/catalog/glaucoma-group/

Scientific Planning Committee

Dr. Parnian Arjmand – Chair
I have a relationship with a for-profit and/or non-profit organization to diclose:

• Any direct financial payments, including receipt of honoraria: COS
• Membership on advisory boards or speakers’ bureaus: Roche, Bayer, Apobiologix

Dr. Vlad Diaconita – Member
I have a relationship with a for-profit and/or non-profit organization to disclose:

• Any direct financial payments, including receipt of honoraria: Voiant LLC Consultant
• Membership on advisory boards or speakers’ bureaus: Biogen, Roche

Dr. Bryon McKay – Member
I do not have a relationship with a for-profit and/or non-profit organization to disclose.

Dr. Miral Mehta-Shounak – Member
I do not have a relationship with a for-profit and/or non-profit organization to disclose.

Speakers

Dr. Sophie Bakri
I have a relationship with a for-profit and/or non-profit organization to disclose:

• Any direct financial payments, including receipt of honoraria: Abbvie, Adverum, Allergan, Amgen, Annexon, Apellis, Aviceda, Cholgene, Eyepoint, Ilumen, Iveric Bio, Kala, Genentech, Neurotech, Novartis, Ocular Therapeutix, Outlook, Pixium, Regenxbio, Regeneron, Rejuvitas, Revana, Roche, VoxelCloud, Zeiss
• Membership on advisory boards or speakers’ bureaus: Abbvie, Adverum, Allergan, Amgen, Annexon, Apellis, Aviceda, Cholgene, Eyepoint, Ilumen, Iveric Bio, Kala, Genentech, Neurotech, Novartis, Ocular Therapeutix, Outlook, Regenxbio, Regeneron, Rejuvitas, Revana, Roche, VoxelCloud, Zeiss
• Funded grants or clinical trials: Lowy Medical Foundation, Regenxbio
• Patents on a drug, product, or device: EP4284507A1, WO2023201312A2

Dr. Michael Klufas
I have a relationship with a for-profit and/or non-profit organization to disclose:

• Any direct financial payments including receipt of honoraria: Genentech, Regeneron, DORC/Zeiss, Alimeria, Coherus, Allergan, Bayer
• Membership on advisory boards or speakers’ bureaus: RegenxBio, Biogen, Coherus, Genentech, Regeneron
• Funded grants or clinical trials: Bausch and Lomb

This webinar would not have been possible without the help of our sponsors. Thank you to Apotex, Biocon Biologics and Biogen.

Location: Virtual – access the course HERE

This educational module provides a comprehensive overview of Mycoplasma-Induced Rash and Mucositis (MIRM), focusing on its systemic and ocular manifestations, diagnosis, and management. The course emphasizes the importance of early recognition and intervention to prevent long-term complications. It is designed for medical students, residents, and ophthalmologists involved in managing MIRM and its complications. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped to diagnose and manage MIRM and understand the importance of early intervention.

Authors: Steffie Arès, M.D., Cynthia L. Larche, Marie-Claude Robert, M.D.

Course Objectives

1. Highlight the importance of early ophthalmologic evaluation to prevent chronic complications.
2. Define MIRM and identify its ocular and systemic manifestations.
3. Discuss the evidence-based management strategies, including supportive care and ophthalmologic interventions.
4. Understand the indications and techniques for amniotic membrane transplantation in patients with severe ocular involvement.

Target audience: Ophthalmology residents and ophthalmologists.

Betoptic S (betaxolol 0.25%) is being discontinued globally by Novartis. Existing Canadian supplies are expected to run out by the end of this year. There is no other marketed betaxolol eye drop in Canada.  Novartis has indicated that this is a global decision and will not be reversed. The discontinuation has already occurred elsewhere across the globe. We have created a small document for our colleagues in anticipation of this change. 

Betaxolol and Timolol provide similar efficacy in treating glaucoma.¹ However, timolol (a non-selective beta blocker) can adversely affect pulmonary function whereas betaxolol (a selective B-1 blocker) has less impact on pulmonary function.² Therefore, betaxolol has been recommended as the topical beta blocker of choice in patients with pulmonary disease (e.g. asthma, COPD). While betaxolol is not widely prescribed, it remains a part of glaucoma control for some patients.  

We hope providers will guide patients through this drug discontinuation. Alternative management strategies may include switching to another class of topical glaucoma medication (e.g. prostaglandin analogue, carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, alpha agonist) if no contraindication exists,³ increasing ocular availability while decreasing systemic absorption of other therapies by eyelid closure or nasolacrimal occlusion,⁴ laser trabeculoplasty,⁵ minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) or minimally invasive bleb surgery (MIBS),⁶ or incisional glaucoma surgery.⁷ Patient needs and availability of treatment will be unique across the country. We thank you, the providers, for continuing to manage excellence in care for all Canadians. 

1. Stewart RH, Kimbrough RL, Ward RL. Betaxolol vs timolol. A six-month double-blind comparison. Arch Ophthalmol. 1986 Jan;104(1):46-8 

2. Schoene RB, Abuan T, Ward RL, Beasley CH. Effects of topical betaxolol, timolol, and placebo on pulmonary function in asthmatic bronchitis. Am J Ophthalmol. 1984 Jan;97(1):86-92 

3. Li T, Lindsley K, Rouse B, Hong H, Shi Q, Friedman DS, Wormald R, Dickersin K. Comparative Effectiveness of First-Line Medications for Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis. Ophthalmology. 2016 Jan;123(1):129-40 

4. Flach AJ. The importance of eyelid closure and nasolacrimal occlusion following the ocular instillation of topical glaucoma medications, and the need for the universal inclusion of one of these techniques in all patient treatments and clinical studies. Trans Am Ophthalmol Soc. 2008;106:138-45 

5. Li X, Wang W, Zhang X. Meta-analysis of selective laser trabeculoplasty versus topical medication in the treatment of open-angle glaucoma. BMC Ophthalmol. 2015 Aug 19;15:107 

6. Nichani P, Popovic MM, Schlenker MB, Park J, Ahmed IIK. Microinvasive glaucoma surgery: A review of 3476 eyes. Surv Ophthalmol. 2021 Sep-Oct;66(5):714-742 

7. Gedde SJ, Schiffman JC, Feuer WJ, Herndon LW, Brandt JD, Budenz DL; Tube versus Trabeculectomy Study Group. Treatment outcomes in the Tube Versus Trabeculectomy (TVT) study after five years of follow-up. Am J Ophthalmol. 2012 May;153(5):789-803.e2 

As biosimilars begin to enter the Canadian retina space, many ophthalmologists are asking: how do these agents compare to reference biologics—and what should we consider before making the switch?

Join renowned retina specialists Dr. Mike Klufas and Dr. Sophie Bakri for a 90-minute webinar that dives into the practical realities of biosimilar use—from clinical trial data to real-world adoption strategies.

📅 Date: May 29, 2025
🕒 Time: 7:00 PM ET
⏳ Duration: 90 minutes

Dr. Michael Klufas is a vitreoretinal surgeon at Wills Eye Hospital and Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at Thomas Jefferson University. He has authored over 90 publications and is a principal investigator in clinical trials on AMD, diabetic eye disease, biosimilars, and gene therapy. A graduate of Brown University and Weill Cornell, Dr. Klufas is a frequent speaker at national and international meetings.

Dr. Sophie J. Bakri is Chair of Ophthalmology at Mayo Clinic and holds the Whitney and Betty MacMillan Professorship. A vitreoretinal surgeon and Wharton MBA graduate, she has authored over 230 peer-reviewed papers and leads multiple clinical trials on retinal disease. She has received numerous accolades, including the AAO Senior Achievement Award and Retina Hall of Fame induction.

This webinar is ideal for retina specialists, general/comprehensive ophthalmologists, fellows, residents, and medical students seeking a deeper understanding of biosimilars and their role in retinal disease management.

In addition to these experts, the Biosimilars Planning Committee will be joining them in a panel discussion at the end of the webinar. We are excited to have Dr. Parnian Arjmand, Dr. Vlad Diaconita, Dr. Bryon McKay and Dr. Miral Mehta-Shounak.

Learning Objectives:
After this session, participants will be able to:

• Interpret and evaluate clinical trial data on biosimilars by analyzing key findings from pivotal ophthalmology studies and comparing their efficacy, safety, and real-world outcomes to reference biologics;
• Apply real-world evidence to clinical practice by examining case studies and identifying strategies to overcome challenges in biosimilar adoption across various ophthalmic settings;
• Navigate regulatory and practical considerations by understanding Health Canada’s biosimilar guidelines and examining reimbursement models and access barriers within Canada;
• Engage in expert-led discussions to gain insights on the evolving role of biosimilars and address common questions and concerns through interactive Q&A.

Submit Your OCT Case – Win a COS Prize!
Have a compelling AMD or DME case? Share it for a chance to be featured during our live case-based learning segment! Selected cases will be reviewed by our expert panel, and the top submission will receive a COS prize.

Submission Guidelines:

• Max 3 PowerPoint slides
• Include a brief patient history and OCT image(s)
• Pose a clinical question (e.g., “Should I switch this patient to a biosimilar?”)

Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your case and gain expert insights! All cases should be submitted to [email protected] by May 23rd, 2025.

Whether you’re already considering biosimilars in your practice or simply want to stay ahead of the curve, this webinar offers a timely and comprehensive overview tailored specifically for Canadian ophthalmologists.

This activity is an accredited Group Learning Activity (Section 1) as defined by the Maintenance of Certification program of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and approved by the Canadian Ophthalmological Society. You may claim a maximum of 1.5 hours.

This webinar would not be made possible without our sponsors. Please click here for our list of sponsors and our disclosure page.

The COS Ergonomics working group is pleased to share an online resource focused on musculoskeletal disorders in ophthalmologists. Developed by Queen’s University in collaboration with Weill Cornell Medicine, this online module highlights best ergonomic practices and injury prevention.

Why is this important? The physical demands of ophthalmology puts physicians at risk for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to poor ergonomics.

After this module, participants will:

• Review the importance of ergonomics for ophthalmologists;
• Identify areas in the clinic and operating room that may predispose to musculoskeletal disorders;
• Learn proper ergonomic risk factor modification;
• Recognize signs and symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders, understanding the importance of early intervention.

Completion of this online module has been determined by Queen’s University to be eligible for 0.5 hours of Royal College Physicians and Surgeons of Canada Section 2: Self Learning credits.

Ready to learn more? Click below!

The April 2025 CJO is now available online. Here are some of the highlights: 

Resident Perspectives + visual abstract: Our talented team of residents have summarized 3 articles from this issue with a focus on what’s most relevant to ophthalmology learners here in Canada and around the globe. And our April visual abstract provides a visual summary of an article on the Comparison of venturi and peristaltic based phacoemulsification efficiency in routine femtosecond laser cataract surgery.

Reviews and Original Research Articles:

• Anterior uveitis for the comprehensive ophthalmologist
• Ophthalmic rehabilitation in oncology care
• Can high-resolution optical coherence tomography provide an optical biopsy for ocular surface lesions?
• When and which second-line workup to perform for uveitis: a tertiary care center experience
• Diversity gaps among practicing ophthalmologists in Canada: a landscape study
• Reoperation for congenital ptosis: characteristics, success rates, and predicting factors
• Computer-aided diagnosis of eyelid skin tumors using machine learning

Research Letters, Photo Essays, Case Reports, and more:

• Unequal access to routine eye exams in Canada: an analysis of government-funded eye exam coverage policy and associated vision health outcomes
• A national benchmarking survey for quality improvement and safety in ophthalmology 
• Pigmented intratarsal keratinous cyst with polymicrobial colonization  
• Indications and outcomes of intraocular lens exchange in a Canadian population  
• Solar retinopathy following the April 2024 eclipse in Quebec, Canada
• Crafting the ophthalmic surgeon’s mindset
• F. Y. EYE Column

Follow the CJO on social media:

BlueSky: @cjo-jco.bsky.social

Facebook: CanJOphth

Instagram: @cjo_jco

LinkedIn: CJO – JCO

Join Our Exclusive Webinar for COS Members and Residents

COS is pleased to provide this Advocacy and Government Relations webinar for the upcoming Federal Election. This event was offered exclusively to COS members and Residents on April 16th, 2025. 

We are living in unprecedented times—facing evolving healthcare challenges, an aging population, and a rapidly changing political landscape. With the upcoming federal election serving as a pivotal moment for Canadians, this is a unique opportunity to unite in shaping the future of vision health and ophthalmology.

This accredited webinar designed to equip you with the skills and key messages needed to advocate effectively with local and provincial policymakers. Your voice is critical in ensuring that ophthalmology and vision health remain a priority on the national agenda.

Did you miss this webinar? Not to worry! A recording is available for our members and residents to view below.

Nina Ahuja, MD
COS Chair, Council on Advocacy
COS Board of Directors

Dr. Ahuja leads the COS Advocacy Council and advises the Board of Directors on COS’ advocacy and government relations initiatives. She recently developed a framework for implementing Canada’s National Eye Care Strategy, along with other key submissions to the federal government.

Learn more about COS’ advocacy work here.

Brett Hartley, Manager, Public Affairs
Impact Public Affairs

Brett Hartley is a seasoned government relations professional with a deep passion for Canadian politics, public policy, and relationship-building. With over a decade of political experience, including significant time on Parliament Hill, he has worked closely with municipal, provincial, and federal officials to drive impactful initiatives and deliver meaningful results for both policymakers and clients.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this webinar, you will be able to:

1. Understand how to effectively communicate key issues to government officials and policymakers
2. Learn best practices for securing and conducting successful meetings with elected officials
3. Gain insights into the current political landscape and how it affects our ophthalmology profession

Submitted by: Félix Plamondon

2025 ASOT Eye Trauma Annual Meeting

The American Society of Ophthalmic Trauma (ASOT) invites physicians around the world to participate to their fourth meeting on eye trauma. Many learning opportunities on sports eye injuries, prevention and management of ophthalmic trauma will be offered throughout the meeting.

Date: May 9 – 10, 2025

Location: Houston Methodist Institute for Technology, Innovation and Education (MITIE) in Houston, Texas (6670 Bertner Avenue).

Important Information: The Annual Meeting registration closes on May 5^th. There is a maximum of 40 attendees that can register for the damage control and reconstruction skills transfer lab (wet lab course). The early-bird pricing for registration ends on April 21^st. This activity is recognized by the American Medical Association and can be counted for a maximum of 8.25 AMA PRA Category 1 credit.

Learning Objectives:

• Enhance your management and control of ocular trauma by learning or practising sophisticated surgical techniques with the wet lab course offered at the meeting.
• Stay updated on the newest breakthrough in ocular trauma by learning advancements from expert’s conferences and training throughout the two days.
• Connect with people in the field of eye traumatology around the globe to make great contacts for further collaboration.

Get all the details for the registration process and full schedule of the meeting here: https://theasot.com/2025-annual-meeting-information-page/

We’re excited to announce that our webinar, “EyeNovation: International Webinar Series for Ophthalmic Expertise” series, ‘The SIRE Sign and Functional Vision in Geographic Atrophy Treatments‘, was presented by Dr. Robyn Guymer on April 10, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET.

Professor Robyn Guymer is a Professor of Ophthalmology at Melbourne University, deputy director of the Centre for Eye Research Australia, and a senior retinal specialist at the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital.

A leading clinician scientist, she researches Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and has co-authored over 400 peer-reviewed papers. Her work focuses on early AMD treatments, novel imaging biomarkers, and surrogate endpoints for early intervention trials.

She has led industry-sponsored trials, serves on pharmaceutical advisory boards, and is part of international macular disease groups. An inaugural fellow of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences, she was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia in 2018 and inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women in 2021.

By the end of this webinar, you will be able to:

1. Understand the relevance and importance of the SIRE sign
2. Understand how functional vision has been tested in current GA trials
3. Understand the issues around showing a functional change in vision in geographic atrophy

If you missed this webinar, not to worry! The recording is available below: