ESCRS 2026

Heidelberg Engineering will be attending the ESCRS Annual Congress, which will take place from September 11 to 15, 2026, at the London Exhibition Centre (ExCeL) in London, United Kingdom.

Organized by the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS), the ESCRS Annual Congress is one of the largest international meetings dedicated to cataract and refractive surgery. This event will bring together ophthalmic surgeons, clinicians, researchers, and industry experts from around the world to discuss the latest scientific developments and clinical advances in anterior segment surgery.

The scientific program includes keynote lectures, symposia, instructional courses, wet labs, video sessions, and free paper presentations that cover topics such as surgical techniques, intraocular lens (IOL) technology, biometry, refractive procedures, and innovations in cataract management.

The ESCRS provides a global platform for knowledge exchange, professional networking, and exploration of new technologies that continue to transform cataract and refractive care. We look forward to connecting with clinicians and researchers in London and discussing the latest developments shaping the future of ophthalmic surgery.

ESCRS iNovation® Day 2026

Session #4: Disruptive Innovations in Cataract Surgery: AI and Robotics

Date: Friday, 11 September 2026
Time: 10:30 – 11:23 A.M.
Venue: Excel London

Session Overview

Artificial intelligence and robotics are transforming the future of cataract surgery. This session at the ESCRS iNovation® Day 2026 brings together internationally recognized experts from clinical practice and industry to discuss the latest technological advances, their impact on patient outcomes, and the challenges of integrating these innovations into everyday ophthalmic care.

Chairs
Thomas Kohnen and Eric Donnenfeld

Panelists

• Bruce Allan
• Julie Schallhorn
• Terry Kim (Alcon)
• Holger Ruchatz (Heidelberg Engineering)
• Frank Seitzinger (ZEISS)
• TBD

Topics

• Robotics in ophthalmic surgery
• Real outcomes improvements
• Cost-benefit analysis
• Addressing issues in AI use
• Ethical concerns and regulations

About the Session

This panel will explore how AI and robotic technologies are reshaping cataract surgery, from improving surgical precision and clinical outcomes to evaluating economic value and addressing ethical and regulatory considerations. The discussion will provide valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges that these disruptive innovations present for the future of ophthalmology.

View Full Programm