Written by: Dr. Julian Rafaello C. Malabanan and Dr. Sharmaine Anjanette G. Ng

In a remarkable gathering of minds and expertise, the St. Luke’s Eye Institute proudly hosted its 27th postgraduate course, titled “Naughty or Neyes: Comparing Old and New Techniques,” held at the St. Luke’s Medical Center – Global City, Henry Sy Auditorium last December 2, 2023, this unique one-day face-to-face scientific program was a resounding success! It drew the participation of 177 attendees, including ophthalmologists, fellows, and residents in training.

The event served as a vibrant platform for experts from diverse ophthalmological subspecialties exploring the rich legacy of traditional techniques, the “Nice” practices that have been the cornerstone of the field, and the “Naughty” unconventional innovations reshaping the approach to eye care.

The scientific program unfolded across seven dynamic sessions, each dedicated to a subspecialty—Retina, Strabismus, Orbit, Glaucoma, Low Vision, Refractive, and Cataract. Renowned specialists took center stage, discussing ophthalmologic techniques for the management of various diseases and presenting outcomes.

Among the distinguished speakers were luminaries of the field of ophthalmology such as Dr. Bernardo Tuaño and Dr. Marie Joan Loy, who shared insights into conventional and PASCAL laser techniques for managing diabetic retinopathy. Dr. Alvina Pauline Santiago (strabismus surgery) and Dr. Marianne Carabeo (chemodenervation) for management of cranial nerve palsies; Dr. Honeylen Teo (systemic antibiotics) and Dr. Yvette Santiago Gatmaitan (incision and drainage) for the management of periorbital abscess; Dr. Marie Rachel Macapagal (phaco-trabeculectomy) and Dr. Jose Maria Martinez (phaco-MIGS); Dr. Maria Dulce Peralta (low vision visual aids in older children and adult) and Dr. Sheila Jimenez (high technology low vision aids); Dr. Jessica Abaño (SMILE) and Dr. Pius Ocampo (implantable collamer lens) for moderate myopia; Dr. Jay Marianito Vicencio (manual viscomydriasis) and Dr. Reginald Robert Tan (iris hooks) for management of small pupils in cataract surgery; Dr. Manolette Roque (2.2 incision) and Dr. Bernardo Tuaño (2.75 incision) for main incision creation; Dr. Victor Anthony Ermita (co-axial) and Dr. Marie Joan Loy (bimanual) for irrigation and aspiration of cortex; and, Dr. Victor Lopez (single-setting) and Dr. Jay Marianito Vicencio (two-setting) for phacoemulsification.

This groundbreaking event was spearheaded by a team of dedicated young consultants and residents, including Dr. Jess Paningasan, Jr., Dr. Stacey Sau, Dr. Hendrik Onson, Dr. Reny Rose Sabado, and St. Luke’s Eye Institute residents. Their commitment to the postgraduate course was evident in the meticulous organization and execution of the program.

The success of the postgraduate course lies not only in the breadth of topics covered but also in the collaborative spirit it fostered among attendees. It provided a unique opportunity for knowledge exchange and networking, in the continuous evolution of the field.

As we reflect on this triumph, it is clear that the St. Luke’s Eye Institute’s commitment to innovation and education has set a benchmark for the future of eye care. The “Naughty or Neyes” event stands as a testament to the institute’s dedication to pushing boundaries and embracing the diversity of techniques that contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of ophthalmology.