As part of the 16th Days of the Bosnian-Herzegovinian American Academy of Arts and Sciences (BHAAAS), the Fifth International Ophthalmology Symposium titled “Cornea, Ocular Surface and Refractive Surgery” was held in Sarajevo on June 21–22, bringing together leading ophthalmology experts from across the region and broader international community.
The symposium offered rich educational content through four expert panels and numerous presentations focused on the latest therapeutic approaches in treating diseases of the anterior segment of the eye, particularly the ocular surface, dry eye, ocular surface tumors, corneal diseases, corneal transplantation, and refractive surgery (laser vision correction and lens replacement procedures).
“We were especially pleased with the international character of the event and the presence of colleagues from the Turkish Ophthalmological Association, which further strengthened our professional ties and exchange of experiences. We had engaging discussions, shared practical examples, and opened new perspectives that will contribute to everyday clinical practice,”
emphasized Dr. Nina Jovanović, MD, FEBO, MSc, MPH.
A special highlight was the interactive workshop on corneal topography/tomography, led by Dr. Koray Gumus (Turkey) and Dr. Igor Knezović (Croatia), which included practical exercises using state-of-the-art equipment. The workshop offered hands-on insights into interpreting corneal maps, keratoconus screening, and IOL optimization.
Melita Adilović Čabrić, MD, PhD candidate and specialist in ophthalmology and optometry, emphasized that this symposium represents one of the key platforms for sharing knowledge on the latest therapeutic approaches and practices in ophthalmology.
The symposium welcomed participants from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Turkey, Italy, Ireland, Switzerland, Norway, North Macedonia, and Montenegro, featuring over 40 presentations and a dedicated educational session for young ophthalmologists and residents. The main focus was on knowledge exchange, strengthening professional and academic networks, and developing collaborative research initiatives.
Within the broader 16th BHAAAS Days conference, the ophthalmology program has positioned itself as one of the most significant platforms for professional development and networking. Thanks to the support of the Turkish Ophthalmological Association (TOA) and contributions from six lecturers from TOA’s Cornea and Ocular Surface section, this year’s symposium raised the bar in terms of content quality.
The BHAAAS Days are much more than a scientific gathering — they are a bridge between diaspora and local professionals, a space for collaboration and innovation that drives healthcare and science forward in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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