Hold on tight! Day 2 delivered genetics, glaucoma debates, retina tech and more at AAO 2025.
This weekend, Orlando isn’t just about Disney and roller coasters. It’s where eye care professionals strap in for a ride through the latest in ophthalmology.
Day 2 of the American Academy of Ophthalmology Annual Meeting 2025 (AAO 2025) delivered a jam-packed track of lectures, debates and innovations, with enough twists, turns and highs to keep attendees on their toes. From crowded halls to buzzing booths, the energy was thrilling…but never nauseating.
Inside the scientific halls
The Opening Session launched attendees into a whirlwind of policy, advocacy and genetics, with a melodic pit stop at the end. Leaders called for louder advocacy, unveiled next-level EyeCare America expansion and even showed how genetics could forecast glaucoma decades in advance. And just when you thought you’d gotten off the ride, a world-class violin performance reminded attendees why art and vision are inseparable. Hold on tight and check out our recap on the Opening Session.
Next, Dr. Kenneth Goodman (USA) took attendees on a loop through computing history, from punch-card looms to “too-human” algorithms, noting ethical turns behind every innovation. Between laughs and cautionary tales, he urged ophthalmologists to “peek under the hood,” critically evaluate AI outputs and keep human judgement at the wheel. Get all the session details here.
The glaucoma track added some sharp twists of its own, questioning whether today’s treatment trends are steering care in the wrong direction. From overtreatment of the mild cases to undertreatment of the severe, experts urged clinicians to pause, reassess and put patient-centered care back on track. Read the full story, then weigh in.
READ MORE: Subspecialty Day at AAO 2025: Lenticules, Award Lectures and New Technology in Focus
On the exhibition floor
The innovation circuit continued on the exhibition floor, where companies showcased tools designed to smooth out every turn in clinical practice.
TSK Laboratory International (Booth 1024) unveiled the STERiJECT ophthalmic low dead space needle, the first FDA-cleared needle specifically for intraocular use. According to TSK, the low dead space hub ensures nearly every drop reaches its target, while features like an ultra-sharp triple-bevel tip, friction-reducing coating and a dolphin-nose glue dome promise smoother, safer injections.
Iantrek (Booth 3501) took attendees on a new route through glaucoma with AlloFlo Uveo, designed to keep a surgically created cleft open for smoother long-term aqueous outflow. Backed by a recent $42 million Series C round, Iantrek said the system will fuel commercial expansion and surgeon education, making its booth a popular stop for those navigating modern glaucoma care.
Finally, Optos (Booth 1842) delivered a retina ride with its Silverstone RGB. The multimodal system combines nine imaging technologies—including three-channel RGB imaging, dual autofluorescence and two angiographies—into a single chair.
“[Improved] workflow for sure,” said Dana Keane, vice president of Clinical Affairs at Optos. “One chair, and you’re getting every imaging technology you could possibly want.”
According to Ms. Keane, the system’s SS-OCT engine captures both central and peripheral scans with ease, while blue-channel imaging highlights subtle, superficial pathology.
“We’re seeing more of the retina in one shot than ever before,” added Optos Vice President of Global Marketing Bryan Farell. “This is a game-changer for early detection and research.”
As the day drew to a close, attendees disembarked from a whirlwind of insight, innovation and ethical debate. Tomorrow promises more twists, more discoveries and (probably) a few unexpected loops. So buckle up and enjoy the ride.
Editor’s Note: The American Academy of Ophthalmology Annual Meeting 2025 (AAO 2025) is being held on 17-20 October 2025, in Orlando, Florida. Reporting for this story took place during the event. This content is intended exclusively for healthcare professionals. It is not intended for the general public. Products or therapies discussed may not be registered or approved in all jurisdictions, including Singapore.