Bristol Eye Hospital is a specialist ophthalmic hospital in Bristol. It is part of the University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust.The University of Bristol Dental Hospital is adjacent, and the Bristol Royal Infirmary is nearby.
Introduction:Cerebral visual impairment (CVI) is an umbrella term that describes a broad range of brain related visual problems and it is now the most common cause of visual impairment (VI) in children in the developed world. Early assessment, management and support are essential to minimise the risk of lifelong negative consequences. Currently there are no internationally agreed clinical guidelines for the investigation and diagnosis of CVI, with variation in existing models of care resulting in potential service health inequities for this population. Objective:The objective of this scoping review is to identify and describe the components of existing service delivery models of care in relation to the detection, care, and management of children with CVI. Methods:We will search multiple databases to include MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, APA PsycINFO, and The Cochrane Library for English language publications from OECD countries. Supplementary searches will also be conducted to locate grey literature. We will include any study that describes or assesses service delivery for children (0-17 years) with CVI in health and social care, and education settings. Stakeholder engagement:We consulted with a broad range of stakeholders including subject experts and patient and public representatives during the planning and will continue during the conduct, reporting and dissemination of this scoping review.
Abstract Background Artificial intelligence (AI) and clinical informatics (CI) are strategic priorities for UK ophthalmology, with the Royal College of Ophthalmologists identifying education and training as central to safe implementation. However, formal CI/AI training is not currently embedded within the Ophthalmic Specialty Training (OST) curriculum. This study aimed to evaluate trainees’ baseline knowledge, access to training and perceived educational needs to inform future curriculum development. Methods We conducted a national cross-sectional online survey of UK ophthalmology trainees between January and June 2025. A bespoke questionnaire was developed in accordance with the CHERRIES framework and informed by national policy and the NHS England DART-Ed digital competency framework. Content validity was strengthened through expert review by members of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists Informatics Working Group. The anonymised survey assessed baseline knowledge, perceived clinical relevance, access to training, educational preferences and career intentions. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively and free-text responses underwent inductive thematic analysis. Results Seventy-one trainees responded, representing all UK training deaneries and all training grades. Most reported only basic or no knowledge of CI (76%) or AI (76%), with limited access to deanery-level training. Support for formal education was high (CI 70%; AI 80%). Nearly half (49%) wished to incorporate CI/AI into future consultant roles. Trainees favoured blended, clinically relevant training models combining online learning, regional teaching and supervised project work. Qualitative themes emphasised foundational literacy, governance and safety, practical application and flexible delivery. Conclusions UK ophthalmology trainees demonstrate majority support for structured CI/AI education, with over 70% supporting formal training in both domains, despite limited current provision. These findings support integration of digital competencies within the OST curriculum, aligned with national frameworks, to prepare the future workforce for safe and effective AI-enabled ophthalmic care.
Background: Direct selective laser trabeculoplasty (DSLT) is a novel option for intraocular pressure (IOP) control in patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension. The automated and touchless translimbal delivery of laser energy to 360 degrees of the trabecular meshwork (TM) improves aqueous outflow and lowers IOP. DSLT is faster, simpler, and less invasive than routinely performed SLT. Few studies have compared the two techniques. Objective: To retrospectively compare the safety and efficacy of DSLT and SLT over a 1-year follow-up period. Methods: In total, 16 eyes that underwent DSLT and 16 eyes that underwent SLT were included. The primary outcome measures were mean absolute and percent IOP reduction, number of medications, and BCVA at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Survival analysis on 1-year data was performed based on the presence of one or more of the following failure criteria: (1) IOP > 21 mmHg or less than 20% reduction in IOP from baseline at two consecutive visits; (2) increase in the number of IOP-lowering drops from baseline at two consecutive visits; (3) further procedures. Results: The survival rates in the DSLT vs. SLT group were 81% vs. 78%, 44% vs. 62%, and 37% vs. 43% at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. No statistically significant differences were reported. DSLT does not seem inferior to conventional SLT in terms of safety and efficacy in reducing IOP. Conclusions: The advantages of an automated, rapid, contactless technique may enlarge the cohort of patients eligible for a drop-free first-line IOP control procedure.
