This episode of RetinUp is a special deep dive into the Vit-Buckle Society (VBS), tracing its origins and previewing what’s ahead for the 2026 meeting.

In the first segment, Ross Lakhanpal, MD, shares the founding story of VBS — from informal dinner discussions among fellows to one of the most distinctive and influential meetings in retina. What began as an effort to preserve surgical retina education has evolved into a meeting known for its creativity, honesty, and strong sense of community.

The episode then shifts to Aleksandra Ratchitskaya, MD, who outlines the agenda and structure of the 2026 VBS meeting, including expanded programming for trainees, new educational tracks, and the continued emphasis on open discussion and real-world clinical challenges.

Across both conversations, a consistent theme emerges: VBS succeeds because it prioritizes authenticity, collaboration, and the full experience of being a retina specialist — not just the science.

Hosts:

John Kitchens, MD

Scott Krzywonos

Guests:

Ross Lakhanpal, MD, FACS – Founding Member, Vit-Buckle Society (VBS); Retina Care Center (Maryland)

Aleksandra Ratchitskaya, MD, – President, Vit-Buckle Society (VBS)

Topics CoveredThe Founding of VBS (Ross Lakhanpal, MD,)

• Origins in 2004–2006 among fellows seeking more surgical retina focus
• Early dinner meetings piggybacking on major conferences (ASRS, AAO)
• Initial industry support from Bausch + Lomb and later Alcon
• The role of key mentors including Timothy Murray, MD, and Harry Flynn, MD,
• Transition from informal gatherings to a standalone national meeting
• Early challenges with organization, funding, and defining a clear vision

Building a Distinctive Retina Meeting

• Introduction of debates, live surgery, and unconventional formats
• The importance of creativity, energy, and peer-driven programming
• Balancing innovation with professionalism as the meeting grew
• The role of medical conference planners (MCPI) in scaling the event
• How VBS differentiated itself from traditional, science-heavy meetings

Leadership Transition and Growth

• Decision to hand leadership to the next generation
• Evolution of programming under new leadership
• Increased focus on year-round education, social media, and engagement
• Current leadership structure and succession planning
• Why maintaining a strong culture and relationships is critical to continuity

2026 VBS Meeting Preview (Aleksandra Ratchitskaya, MD,)

• Expanded Thursday programming for fellows, trainees, and early-career specialists
• “VBS Silver” sessions for more experienced physicians
• Fellows Forum-style competitions, including surgical video presentations
• Awards, including Lifetime Achievement and Mentorship recognition
• Dedicated sessions on practice management, advocacy, and wellness

Signature VBS Elements

• Surgical case discussions focused on complications and real-world challenges
• Debates on controversial clinical and professional topics
• A strong emphasis on honesty and open dialogue
• Social programming built around the Alice in Wonderland theme
• Networking that reflects the collaborative, peer-driven culture of VBS

Key Takeaways

• VBS was founded to address a gap in surgical retina education and has grown into a broader platform for professional development.
• The meeting’s success is rooted in its culture of openness, creativity, and peer collaboration.
• Leadership transition to younger physicians has strengthened the organization and expanded its reach.
• VBS continues to stand out by addressing the full scope of retina practice, including clinical, personal, and professional challenges.

Credits

Production & Marketing: Laura Brown

Business Operations: Liz Hogan

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