From fostering a culture of inclusivity and outstanding patient care to advancing surgical techniques, EVRS continues to shape the future of medical and surgical retina worldwide
Since its establishment in 2001, the European VitreoRetinal Society (EVRS) has not only grown and adapted to the evolving needs of its members but has also remained steadfast in its original mission: Promoting a culture of excellent patient care and advancing the field of medical and surgical retina treatment.
Dr. Giampaolo Gini, consultant vitreoretinal surgeon and current president of EVRS, took us through the evolution of the Society—tracing its journey from inception to its current standing as a pioneering force in the field of medical and surgical retina.
“At the turn of the new millennium, vitreoretinal surgery was very different from what it is today. Not only were many of today’s advanced instruments still being developed, but there was also an absolute need for further research and dissemination of this acquired knowledge among surgeons,” reminisced Dr. Giampaolo Gini. “Thus, the idea of establishing a society dedicated to promoting a culture of outstanding patient care and striving for excellence in medical and surgical retina treatment was born.”
Unique edge: Horizontal learning
Dr. Gini highlighted that EVRS distinguishes itself from other societies through its unique philosophy of ‘horizontal learning,’ where members gain insights from each other by exchanging shared experiences.
“The very philosophy of EVRS is quite different from that of most other societies. The emphasis has always been on learning from each other by sharing common experiences,” shared Dr. Gini. “This translated into giving everyone the opportunity to present their ideas without fear. Peers among peers, we call this ‘horizontal learning’ as opposed to more rigid and dogmatic structures adopted by other societies. While this model has inspired many newborn societies today, it was unheard of back then,” he explained.
Additionally, this open and inclusive approach fosters an environment of mutual respect and growth. Dr. Gini also noted that this concept is evident in the guiding themes of EVRS meetings, such as “My Way” and “Errare Humanus est,” which encourage members to share personal approaches and even their mistakes, cultivating a culture of transparency and continuous improvement.
Nurturing excellence in vitreoretinal surgery
Amid global transformations, the Society’s reliability and vibrancy over the years are significant milestones. EVRS has consistently contributed to the education and training of vitreoretinal surgeons through annual meetings, webinars, and live surgery events.
Aligned with EVRS’s core objective of advancing patient care through enhanced surgical training, the Society’s 15-day European VitreoRetinal Training School (EVRTS) was a groundbreaking initiative in Europe.
Originally held in Bremen, Germany, EVRTS delivered an intensive two-week training course annually to up to 50 selected participants. The program included personalized tutorials, daily lectures, and hands-on practice using early simulators. This holistic training has positively impacted over 1,000 surgeons globally, cultivating a campus-like environment conducive to encouraging lasting professional relationships.
According to Dr. Gini, although the training school has been inactive since the pandemic, plans are underway to revive it, responding to numerous requests from the community.
Contributions to vitreoretinal surgery
EVRS members, many of whom are world leaders in the field, have made significant contributions to vitreoretinal surgery. “Innovations such as the ocular trauma scoring system (OTS), the complete and early vitrectomy for endophthalmitis (CEVE) study, a new staging system for myopic macular traction, and the inverted flap technique for macular hole repair are just a few examples,” he said.
The Society has also conducted large retrospective studies involving numerous members, providing valuable insights due to the geographic diversity and large number of participants.
As an inclusive society, EVRS values international collaboration. Its openness and willingness to cooperate have led to strong bonds with many similar societies worldwide. This inclusiveness fosters a better understanding and acceptance of diverse backgrounds, essential in today’s rapidly changing world.
At the forefront of vitreoretinal advancements
Over the past two decades, there has been a global improvement in the quality of patient care in both medical and surgical retina, a testament to technical advancements and better training.
“EVRS has done its part in developing, promoting, and diffusing this knowledge. When one drops a stone in a pond, the ripples reach farther than one thinks,” Dr. Gini quipped.
Looking forward, EVRS aims to continue fostering face-to-face interactions while exploring the integration of artificial intelligence into the specialty.
“Applying artificial intelligence (AI) to our society will probably be one of the biggest challenges we will be facing in the next few years. We have begun exploring ways in which our society can contribute to this development,” he shared. This forward-thinking approach will be one of the Society’s main projects, ensuring it remains at the forefront of vitreoretinal surgery advancements.
EVRS’s journey is a story of dedication, innovation, and excellence, with its impact reaching far beyond its initial goals. As the Society continues to evolve, it remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing patient care and pushing the boundaries of vitreoretinal surgery.
Editor’s Note: The European VitreoRetinal Society (EVRS) is a society friend of PIE magazine.
Love the EVRS philosophy!