Dear colleague,

As vitreoretinal specialists, our biggest challenge is the effective adoption of new and continuously evolving technology. At the Advanced Vitreoretinal Techniques and Technology (AVTT) Conference, faculty from the Medical College of Wisconsin and internationally renowned specialists gave their perspectives on technological advances in retinal disease. Conference attendees enjoyed close personal interaction with the faculty. Selected highlights of the conference are summarized in this supplement to Retinal Physician, supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Alcon.

The topics covered at the AVTT conference were wide-ranging, reflecting the breadth of today's vitreoretinal practice. Highlighted in this supplement are topics on macular hole surgery, 25-gauge vitrectomy, PVR and diabetic vitrectomy, retinopathy of prematurity, pharmacotherapy and intraocular tumors. To add further perspective, William Rich III, MD, AAO Secretary for Federal Affairs, describes how third-party reimbursement decisions are made on new developments and discusses the main threat to physician payment -- marginal technology.

I hope you find this supplement of value to you and your patients. Join us for upcoming AVTT conferences in 2005!

Dennis P. Han, MD Course Director