Looking to the Future: The Technology Changing Ophthalmology
In a special conversation ahead of the MIXiii Health-Tech.IL conference, Prof. Anat Loewenstein reveals how innovative home monitoring technologies integrated with AI are revolutionizing the treatment of eye diseases and enabling, for the first time, a transition from generic treatment to personalized care
Jerusalem is preparing to host one of the most significant med-tech events in the Middle East - the MIXiii Health-Tech.IL conference led by the Israel Advanced Technology Industries (IATI), taking place on March 4-5 at Binyanei Ha'Uma. The conference will host hundreds of experts, investors, and leading entrepreneurs from around the world, including executives from Silicon Valley, Europe, and the Far East, who will come to see firsthand Israeli innovation in medicine and biotechnology.
One of the main sessions at the conference is the OIS (Ophthalmology Innovation Summit) focusing on groundbreaking innovations in ophthalmology. A few days before the conference opening, we managed to catch Prof. Anat Loewenstein, Head of the Retina Department in the Ophthalmology Department at Tel Aviv Medical Center and Vice President for Ambulatory Care, for a brief conversation. We discussed the exciting innovations in the field and the role of artificial intelligence in the future of eye medicine.
Anat, tell us about your role and the session you're leading at the upcoming conference.
"I serve as Head of the Retina Department in the Ophthalmology Department at Tel Aviv Medical Center, and I also serve as Vice President for Ambulatory Care at the center. I'm very excited about the upcoming MIXiii conference where I'll be leading the OIS session focusing on innovation in ophthalmology. It's a great opportunity to present the latest developments in the field and connect treating physicians with companies developing innovative technologies."
What are you planning to present in the session and which innovations will receive special attention?
"Our session will be packed with fascinating innovations. We'll focus on breakthroughs in the cornea field, including innovative methods for corneal replacement and limbal stem cell-based treatments that are changing patients' lives. In the retina field, which is my specialty, we'll present new treatment models for patients with neovascular macular degeneration, which is one of the most common eye diseases among the elderly population.
In addition, we'll hold in-depth panels on glaucoma and the next generation of monitoring and treatment technologies. What's particularly exciting is the integration of artificial intelligence in diagnostic and monitoring processes, allowing us to achieve a level of precision and efficiency that wasn't possible in the past. The conference will be a rare opportunity for a meeting between leading physicians, researchers, and industry entrepreneurs, and this interaction is essential for continued innovation in the field."
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Prof. Anat Loewenstein, Head of the Retina Department in the Ophthalmology Department at Tel Aviv Medical Center and Vice President for Ambulatory Care
(Photo: Miri Gatenio)
Artificial intelligence has become an integral part of our lives, and it seems to be penetrating the medical world as well. How is this technology changing the field of ophthalmology?
"Artificial intelligence is truly revolutionizing our field. One of the most impressive examples is Home OCT technology - which is advancing in leaps and bounds. This is a home device that allows patients with macular degeneration to perform advanced retinal examinations at home, without the need to visit a clinic.
The device generates enormous amounts of data - much more than a doctor can analyze manually. This is where artificial intelligence enters the picture. Smart algorithms analyze all the information and identify exactly when the patient needs repeat treatment. This completely changes the treatment paradigm - instead of setting regular appointments for all patients, we can personalize treatment, reduce unnecessary visits, and respond quickly when there is a real need.
This not only saves time and money but significantly improves treatment outcomes. This technology represents the future of eye medicine: personalized, precise, and more accessible treatment for patients."
It seems you combine a demanding career with great responsibility. How do you manage to find balance in your personal life amidst all the professional demands?
"Although I dedicate most of my day to work, I've learned that it's very important to maintain balance. Regular physical activity is an integral part of my routine, and of course, quality time with family. This balance is not simple, but it's essential not only for my personal well-being but also for optimal functioning at work. When I take care of myself, I can take better care of my patients."
Finally, do you have tips for our readers regarding eye health maintenance, especially in the screen era?
"That's an excellent question that I'm often asked. The truth is that there's no magic solution or wonder supplement for preventing most eye diseases, but there's a simple rule that I always emphasize: what's good for our general health is also good for our eyes.
Many eye diseases, especially those that develop in older age, are related to the vascular system, so I tell my patients - what's good for your heart is also good for your eyes. A Mediterranean diet along with regular physical activity several times a week, these are the best recommendations I have.
And regarding screens - many people are concerned about their effects. Research shows that there's no evidence of significant ophthalmological damage from prolonged screen viewing, although they may cause dry eyes."
