Second International Glaucoma Symposium Set for January 2026 in Mainz

Efforts to advance glaucoma diagnosis and treatment are continuing with a series of international symposia that bring together experts to discuss clinical practice and new technologies.

The second International Glaucoma Symposium is scheduled for 31 January 2026 at the University Eye Clinic Mainz in Germany. The event is set to address current and future approaches in diagnosing and managing optic neuropathies, including the integration of artificial intelligence and developments in glaucoma surgery.

The symposium’s programme is organized around three main themes: practical strategies for diagnosing and managing optic neuropathies, emerging trends such as AI in diagnosis, and innovations in surgical procedures for glaucoma. The structure is designed to connect established clinical methods with new technological possibilities.

The inaugural International Glaucoma Symposium was held on 1 February 2025 at the same venue, organized by Heidelberg Engineering in collaboration with Mainz University. Delegates from 13 countries attended the first event, where discussions centered on the safe integration of AI into glaucoma care pathways.

What the numbers show

• The first symposium took place on 1 February 2025 in Mainz, Germany
• Delegates from 13 countries participated in the inaugural event
• The second symposium is scheduled for 31 January 2026
• Nearly 50% of glaucoma patients may be missed, according to a company statement

Participants in the first symposium engaged in open forum sessions that examined the role of artificial intelligence in supporting clinicians, rather than replacing them. The agenda also included the importance of high-quality imaging datasets and the application of advanced imaging techniques such as optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA.

Stephan Schulz, head of the global Heidelberg Engineering Academy, said the symposium aims to balance foundational clinical practice with the adoption of new technologies like AI and advanced imaging. He also stated that nearly half of glaucoma cases may go undetected, which underscores the need for better detection and care pathways.

The focus on both established and emerging methods is reflected in the event’s thematic pillars, which are intended to address both current challenges and future directions in glaucoma care. The ongoing series of symposia provides a platform for sharing knowledge and discussing the integration of new tools in clinical settings.

The upcoming symposium in 2026 will continue to build on the discussions and outcomes of the first event, maintaining an emphasis on collaboration across countries and specialties. Organizers have structured the programme to encourage the exchange of ideas on both established practices and technological innovation in the field.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.