SOC Autumn Meeting 2025 

The 2025 Autumn Meeting of the SOC was held at the Marriot Delta, Edinburgh and hosted by NHS Lothian.

During the opening free papers session we heard from a range of speakers including medical students and foundation doctors. Topics discussed included Inherited Retinal Disorders, Post Operative prescribing of Chloramphenicol, Virtual Reality as an aide for simulation training and an update on the volume of Toric IOL implantation across Scotland.  

After a break for refreshments, delegates then welcomed Prof Ben Burton who gave a fascinating update into the political challenges facing our speciality. He also explained  changes to independent sector regulation and future developments; such as pilot projects to develop high volume diagnostic centres.

This was followed by the return of Dr Andy Malyon, a Consultant Plastic surgeon. Who spoke about the impact of the Cumberlege report on ophthalmic surgery. He explained the digital and practical challenges, to comply with the legal requirement of implanted device monitoring by 2027.

After lunch, session three comprised presentations on academic research based on retinal imaging analysis. Dr Iain MacCormick discussed "Retinal Vessels & Cerebral Small Vessel Disease", Dr Tom MacGillivray explained connections between retinal & optic nerve imaging and neuro-health. Prof Miguel Bernabeu highlighted the potential of the SCONe project and research possibilities of a national database created from primary care photographs. 

During the next free paper session, we heard registrar led presentations on Paediatric Orbital Cellulitis, Smartphone based Red Reflex Capture, Community Ophthalmology Glaucoma and inpatient management. 

Session four was dedicated to Ocular Trauma. We heard excellent analysis on a systemic approach to globe trauma & surgical techniques from Mr Aman Chandra. This was followed by real conflict zone experience described by Mr Andrew Gibson.  The challenging emotions and triage of such injuries. 

Lastly as "SOC plus" Dr Caroline Cobb, Dr John Ellis and Dr Harry Bennett led workshop discussions on hot topics in Glaucoma, Cataract & Retina. The meeting was concluded with a buffet dinner and drinks to celebrate together.  

Tribute was led to outgoing SOC President Dr Donald Montgomery, by Dr John Ellis. Who praised the people skills, organisation and class of his leadership. We wish him a very happy retirement. 

Also congratulations to James Hazelwood (Best Presentation Prize), Nivi Aravind (Best Undergraduate Presentation Prize), Niku Dhillon (Best Poster Winner). 

It was a wonderful meeting. We look forward to welcoming our community together again for the SOC Spring Meeting -Feb 2026 in Glasgow.