Jerusalem is preparing to host the MIXiii Health-Tech.IL conference, one of the most significant med-tech events in the Middle East. Led by Israel Advanced Technology Industries (IATI), the conference will take place on March 4-5 at Binyanei Ha’Uma. Hundreds of experts, investors, and entrepreneurs from around the world are expected to attend, including executives from Silicon Valley, Europe, and the Far East, all eager to witness Israeli innovation in medicine and biotechnology.
One of the key sessions at the conference is the Ophthalmology Innovation Summit (OIS), which will focus on groundbreaking innovations in the field. Ahead of the conference, Prof. Anat Loewenstein, Head of the Retina Department in the Ophthalmology Department at Tel Aviv Medical Center and Vice President for Ambulatory Care, shared her insights on the future of eye medicine.
“I’m very excited about the upcoming MIXiii conference, where I’ll be leading the OIS session,” Prof. Loewenstein said. “It’s a great opportunity to present the latest developments and connect treating physicians with companies developing innovative technologies.”
Innovations in Focus
The OIS session promises a packed agenda of exciting innovations. It will highlight breakthroughs in corneal treatments, including novel methods for corneal replacement. The session will also feature limbal stem cell-based treatments that are improving patients’ lives and new treatment models for neovascular macular degeneration, a common eye disease among the elderly.
Furthermore, in-depth panels will explore glaucoma and the next generation of monitoring and treatment technologies. Notably, Prof. Loewenstein emphasized the transformative impact of artificial intelligence in diagnostic and monitoring processes: “AI allows us to achieve a level of precision and efficiency that wasn’t possible in the past. The conference will be a rare meeting between leading physicians, researchers, and industry entrepreneurs. This interaction is essential for continued innovation in the field.”
AI’s Revolutionary Role
Artificial intelligence has become an integral part of modern life, and its influence is growing rapidly in medicine. Prof. Loewenstein highlighted the revolutionary impact of AI in ophthalmology, particularly with Home OCT technology. This home device allows patients with macular degeneration to perform advanced retinal examinations without needing to visit a clinic. The device generates massive amounts of data, which AI algorithms analyze to identify precisely when a patient needs treatment. This represents a paradigm shift in eye care.
“Instead of setting regular appointments for all patients, we can personalize treatment, reduce unnecessary visits, and respond quickly when there is a real need. This not only saves time and money but significantly improves treatment outcomes,” Prof. Loewenstein explained. She added that this technology represents “the future of eye medicine: personalized, precise, and more accessible treatment for patients.”
Maintaining Balance and Eye Health
Prof. Loewenstein also discussed the importance of maintaining balance in her personal and professional life. Despite her demanding career, she stressed the importance of regular physical activity and quality time with family. Balancing these demands is essential for her well-being and optimal functioning at work. She also offered advice on eye health, especially in the screen era.
“What’s good for your general health is also good for your eyes,” she said. She recommends a Mediterranean diet and regular exercise. Regarding screen time, she noted that, while prolonged viewing may cause dry eyes, there is currently no evidence of significant lasting ophthalmological damage.
