The scientific symposium organized by Hong Ngoc General Hospital gathered leading experts from Vietnam and Russia, providing a comprehensive update on technological and surgical advances in corneal transplantation and keratoconus management, with the aim of optimizing treatment outcomes and visual rehabilitation.
New directions in corneal transplantation and keratoconus management
In recent years, corneal transplantation and keratoconus management have witnessed significant advances driven by the development of selective lamellar keratoplasty techniques and femtosecond laser technology. Rather than replacing the entire cornea as in traditional penetrating keratoplasty, these refined approaches enable surgeons to precisely target and replace only the diseased corneal layers while preserving healthy tissue to the greatest extent possible, thereby minimizing postoperative complications and shortening visual recovery time.
Particularly in keratoconus, a progressive ectatic disorder characterized by corneal thinning, protrusion, and morphological distortion leading to significant visual impairment, appropriate and timely intervention plays a decisive role in long term visual preservation. Traditionally, manual lamellar keratoplasty required surgeons to use microsurgical blades to meticulously dissect individual corneal layers, with each step heavily dependent on surgical expertise and tactile feedback. This technique posed substantial technical challenges, as it required precise removal of the diseased anterior corneal tissue while avoiding perforation of the underlying healthy layers, which are extremely thin and highly vulnerable.
Advances in selective lamellar keratoplasty, combined with the application of modern laser technology, are expanding safer, more effective, and increasingly personalized treatment options for patients. The latest developments in this field were presented at the seminar titled ‘Application of Technology in Corneal Transplantation and Keratoconus Management,’ held on February 12, 2026, and organized by Hong Ngoc Phuc Truong Minh General Hospital. The event brought together leading experts from Vietnam and Russia and attracted considerable interest from the ophthalmology community both domestically and internationally.
Delivering the opening remarks at the symposium, Associate Professor Le Van Thach, PhD, Director of Hong Ngoc General Hospital Phuc Truong Minh, stated: ‘Organizing in- depth scientific symposium is a key component of Hong Ngoc General Hospital’s professional development strategy. The sustainable growth of the Hong Ngoc Eye Center is driven not only by comprehensive investment in modern medical equipment, but also by our steadfast commitment to high professional standards and the continuous integration of global medical advances. The knowledge, experience, and technologies shared at today’s seminar will be translated into practical clinical applications within the Ophthalmology Department, thereby enhancing diagnostic accuracy, improving treatment quality, and delivering meaningful benefits to patients
Specialized presentations provide a comprehensive overview of advances in corneal disease management
Within the framework of the symposium, experienced ophthalmology specialists delivered in depth presentations addressing the diagnosis, surgical indications, and transplantation techniques for the management of complex corneal disorders, particularly keratoconus. The discussions emphasized a personalized treatment approach, the integration of advanced technologies, and the selection of appropriate grafting techniques tailored to specific disease phenotypes and the extent of corneal damage.
Notably, Dr. Vu Thi Tue Khanh, PhD, a leading Vietnamese specialist in corneal and ocular surface diseases, presented an overview titled ‘Corneal Transplantation Surgery: A Comprehensive Review.’ Her presentation systematized the entire treatment pathway, from identifying surgical candidates and determining appropriate procedural indications to preoperative clinical assessment, interdisciplinary coordination, and postoperative care. The report provided a holistic clinical perspective aimed at optimizing treatment outcomes in each individual case.
Focusing on a complex corneal disorder that has drawn increasing clinical attention, Professor Yuri Yuryevich Kalinnikov, MD, PhD, a distinguished scientist from Russia, delivered an in depth presentation titled ‘Keratoconus: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment.’ His analysis highlighted the latest global advances in diagnostic modalities and therapeutic interventions, enabling clinicians to select stage appropriate management strategies, optimize treatment outcomes at each phase of the disease, and enhance long term visual preservation.
Currently, the application of advanced technologies in corneal transplantation and keratoconus management at Hong Ngoc General Hospital has demonstrated clear clinical effectiveness.
Dr. Dinh Thi Hoang Anh, PhD, Head of the Ophthalmology Department, shared practical clinical experience in her presentation titled ‘Femtosecond Laser Application: A New Advancement in Modern Corneal Transplantation.’
These innovative approaches are opening new opportunities for sustainable visual improvement and long term visual rehabilitation for patients.
Through in-depth presentations and expert discussions, the seminar served not only as a platform for academic updates but also as a forum to promote the structured and controlled integration of laser technology into clinical practice, with the goal of delivering modern, safe, and effective treatment strategies.
