Dr. Genista Mustafa Çerkini, Kosova- Educational Grant Report

In November 2025, I had the distinct honor of completing a one-month observership at the Department of Ophthalmology, Vienna General Hospital (AKH). This program afforded me invaluable exposure to multiple subspecialties within ophthalmology and provided mentorship of the highest academic and clinical standard.

Under the supervision of Prof. Markus Schranz in the Cataract Surgery Unit, I was guided through diagnostic procedures, treatment strategies, and complex cases management. Prof. Schranz’s distinguished expertise, combined with his approachable and attentive manner, created an ideal environment for professional growth.

Making this experience even more warm and welcoming, and truly feeling like home, was the presence of Prof. Dr. Claudette Abela-Formanek. As an exceptionally skilled cataract surgeon, she offered detailed guidance in complex cataract cases and secondary intraocular lens (IOL) implantations. Her kindness, generosity, and willingness to share knowledge not only enriched my understanding of advanced cataract surgery and postoperative patient care, but also created an atmosphere of genuine collegiality and support that greatly enhanced both my professional and personal growth.

Furthermore, I had the privilege of joining Prof. Dr. Barbara Kiss, a highly skilled glaucoma surgeon, whose kindness and dedication were evident in her willingness to explain each step in detail during patient examinations and surgical procedures. Under her supervision, I observed numerous cases in the Glaucoma Ambulance and gained exposure to a variety of surgical techniques, which broadened my knowledge of glaucoma management.

My observership also included engagement with other specialized teams in cornea, macula, refractive surgery, uveitis and oculoplasty. In particular, I joined Professor Gerald Schmidinger’s team in the Cornea Unit, where I observed numerous complex corneal cases with diverse diagnoses. I gained comprehensive insights into patient management, from initial examination and pre-operative evaluation to surgical intervention. I was further able to observe a wide range of keratoplasty procedures, including DMEK, DSAEK, DALK, and Penetrating Keratoplasty (PKP). I was able to witness other advanced procedures such as Intracorneal Ring Segment (ICR) implantation and Cross-linking in keratoconus. Professor Schmidinger and his team were consistently approachable and generous in sharing their expertise both in Ambulance and Operating room, which greatly enriched my learning experience.

In addition, I had the privilege of following the Oculoplasty Unit under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Reinhard Told, where I had the opportunity to join his team in the operating room and observe the most innovative techniques in oculoplastic surgery.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the colleagues within the Department of Ophthalmology at Vienna General Hospital (AKH) for their hospitality and willingness to share their knowledge with me. This observership was beyond my expectations, expanding my knowledge in the most innovative diagnostic and surgical techniques in ophthalmology and allowing me to establish valuable professional connections that will positively impact my future career.

I am deeply grateful to the European Society of Ophthalmology (SOE) for granting me this invaluable opportunity. I highly recommend the Vienna General Hospital (AKH) as a center for future SOE Educational Grant recipients, as it offers an excellent opportunity to deepen clinical knowledge and refine surgical skills within a respected institution, known for its professionalism, commitment to innovation, and welcoming environment, making it an ideal setting for both academic enrichment and personal growth.