Program

On the first day, you are invited to observe live DMEK surgeries in our clinic (Melles Cornea Clinic Rotterdam). In addition, scientific presentations and video presentations will give you a detailed overview on how to approach DMEK. This includes cases starting from preoperative graft selection through intraoperative graft unfolding and postoperative complication management. The latest results and developments in standard DMEK will be discussed afterwards.

The second day starts with examinations of the patients who were operated on the day before. Next, our specialists from Amnitrans EyeBank Rotterdam will give you step-by-step training in DMEK graft preparation. The specialists’ preparation will be displayed on a large screen so that you can follow along step by step at your own microscope.

In the afternoon you will have the opportunity to practice DMEK surgery on porcine and human eyes. The staff will guide you through every step. You can also discuss your own cases in a one-on-one consultation with one of our specialist surgeons.

What You Will Achieve in This Course

The goal is that after you complete the DMEK wetlab course for beginners and early starters, you will:

• be familiar with the preparation and preservation of donor corneal tissue used for DMEK;
• be familiar with the indications, results, complications and aftercare of DMEK;
• have observed 2–3 live DMEK surgeries and be familiar with the relevant clinical protocols;
• be confident in your ability to prepare tissue and to perform DMEK surgeries at your own clinic.

Your Group

The group size is limited to 11 participants per course. During the entire course the multidisciplinary team will provide advice and guidance, so you will enjoy personal coaching throughout your participation. Please note that personal presence of Dr Melles is not guaranteed.