ASCRS 2025: Oluwatosin U. Smith, MD, champions early intervention and innovative glaucoma technologies

Oluwatosin U. Smith, from Glaucoma Associates of Texas in Dallas, moderated the Glaukomtecken session during the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery's Glaucoma Day on April 25, held in Los Angeles, California. In an interview with the Eye Care Network, Smith highlighted key takeaways from the session.

"In glaucoma, we have lots of new options when it comes to not just glaucoma treatment, but also technology that helps us to better take care of our patients," she said. The session covered a broad spectrum of topics, including IOP control, home monitoring, advances in imaging, the role of big data and artificial intelligence (AI), and updates on new surgical techniques.

Smith highlighted the shift towards a more proactive approach in glaucoma care, stating, "The one thing I would like to talk about is the ability to be interventional in the way we manage our glaucoma patients, diagnosing them early, and treating them earlier as well." Discussions also focused on office-based procedures such as selective laser trabeculoplasty being reintroduced as a first-line treatment, and sustained-release therapies for IOP control.

The integration of AI and big data was another exciting frontier, offering potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy, patient education, and overall efficiency. Smith expressed enthusiasm, noting, "I'm also really excited about the possibilities that AI and big data will provide to us in being more efficient in patient care."

Recognizing the need for a paradigm shift in glaucoma management, Smith reflected, "We have managed glaucoma a certain way for many years. But as a population...we're having to change our mindset." She stressed the importance of using tools and innovations to address the growing patient population, facilitating discussions on practical applications for Monday-morning implementation.

The symposium also served as a vital networking platform, enabling attendees to collaborate across subspecialties and refine their approach to delivering optimal glaucoma care. As Smith aptly summarized, "Technology is really here to help."