Dr. Albina Krasniqi, Kosovo – SOE Educational Grant Report, University Hospital Vienna (AKH)

I would like to begin by expressing my sincere gratitude to the SOE Educational Committee for the great opportunity to participate in an observership at the Department of Ophthalmology at the University Hospital Vienna (AKH), in Austria.

In September 2024, I completed one-month observership under the supervision of Prof. Günter Weigert from macula, retina and vitreoretinal surgery unit. Prof. Weigert, a highly experienced ophthalmologist, was exceptionally approachable and attentive, always willing to answer my questions in detail. He guided me through the unit’s diagnostic procedures and treatment strategies, offering in-depth explanations of various complex cases. I also had the chance of observing a wide range of surgeries in the operating room each day, which greatly enriched my experience.

During my stay, I could also engage with other specialized teams in cornea, cataract, and refractive surgery. I joined Prof. Schmidinger’s team in the cornea unit, where I observed numerous complex corneal cases with diverse diagnoses. This experience offered me invaluable insights into patient management, from initial examination and pre-operative evaluation to final operation. I had the opportunity to observe various types of keratoplasty, including DMEK, DSAEK, DALK, and PKP, as well as the implantation of EndoArt implants. Prof. Schmidinger and his team were approachable and always ready to share their expertise with me.

Additionally, I was warmly welcomed by Prof. Abela from the cataract team, an exceptionally skilled surgeon who guided me through complex cataract cases and secondary IOL implantations. I also could observe numerous cataract refractive surgeries alongside Prof. Pieh, a pioneer in refractive surgery in Austria, and involve in enriching discussions on the latest advancements in the field.

I am profoundly thankful to SOE for this exceptional opportunity, and I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the colleagues inside the Department of Ophthalmology at University Hospital Vienna for their hospitality and willingness to share their knowledge with me. This experience has expanded my knowledge in the most innovative diagnostic and surgical techniques in ophthalmology and allowed me to make valuable professional connections that will positively impact my future career as an ophthalmologist.

I highly recommend this center to future SOE Educational Grant recipients, as it offers an outstanding opportunity to advance clinical knowledge and skills within a leading institution, renowned for its professionalism and welcoming environment.