University Hospital Zurich – Switzerland

 

Department of Ophthalmology at University Hospital Zurich: 150 Years of Excellence Combined with Visionary Technologies

 

At the heart of one of the world’s most advanced healthcare systems, the Department of Ophthalmology at University Hospital Zurich (USZ) shines as an international scientific and clinical hub. With more than a century and a half of experience and innovation, the center is dedicated to a vital mission: preserving, restoring, and enhancing vision for patients of all ages using the most advanced global standards.

 

Its inseparable link with the University of Zurich serves as a driving force, bringing cutting-edge scientific research directly into examination and operating rooms, making the future of ophthalmology a reality today. This approach has made USZ a distinguished destination for complex domestic and international patients.

 

Pioneering Team: Global Leaders in Ophthalmology

 

The excellence of this center is owed to a team of world-renowned specialists and surgeons, each recognized in their respective fields.

 

Leadership and Scientific Direction

 

· Prof. Dr. Dr. med. Daniel Barthelmes – Head of the Department. A leading figure specializing in retinal and vitreoretinal diseases and complex vitreoretinal surgeries. He received the prestigious Ophthaward in 2014 for his outstanding scientific contributions.

· Prof. Dr. med. Sandrine Zweifel – Deputy Head of Department and senior physician.

· Dr. med. Frank Blaser – Deputy Head and senior surgeon, with expertise in corneal diseases, corneal transplantation, and eye bank management.

 

Senior Specialists in Key Areas

 

Retina and Vitreous

 

· Specialists: Prof. Daniel Barthelmes, Dr. Walter Andrietta.

· Focus: Retinal detachment, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion – treated with intravitreal injections, laser therapy, and advanced vitrectomy surgery.

 

Cornea

 

· Specialist: Dr. Frank Blaser.

· Focus: Management of keratoconus, infections, and corneal dystrophies. Performs corneal transplants, including modern lamellar techniques such as DMEK for faster recovery and improved visual outcomes.

 

Cataract and Refractive Surgery

 

· Specialist: Dr. Walter Andrietta.

· Focus: Advanced cataract surgery using femtosecond laser technology and implantation of premium intraocular lenses (IOLs), including multifocal and toric lenses for freedom from glasses.

 

Glaucoma

 

· Focus: Comprehensive treatments ranging from medication and laser (SLT) to minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) and traditional filtration techniques to control intraocular pressure and protect the optic nerve.

 

Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus

 

· Specialists: Prof. Christina Gerth-Kahlert, Dr. Fabienne Fierz.

· Focus: Diagnosis and treatment of amblyopia, strabismus, and congenital eye diseases in children.

 

Neuro-Ophthalmology

 

· Specialists: Dr. Fabienne Fierz, Prof. Konrad Weber.

· Focus: Diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting both vision and the nervous system, such as optic neuritis, vision problems caused by multiple sclerosis, or stroke.

 

Unique Facilities and Services: A Center for All Eye Needs

 

· 24/7 Emergency Care – Immediate treatment for acute retinal detachment, eye trauma, and severe infections. Emergency surgeries such as retinal detachment repair are performed within hours, even on weekends.

· Specialized Diagnostics – State-of-the-art imaging and digital analysis for the most precise diagnoses.

· Minimally Invasive Surgery and Laser Technology – Micro-surgical techniques and advanced lasers for greater precision, less tissue damage, and faster recovery.

· International Patient Support – Full coordination for admission, accommodation, and translation, facilitating treatment for patients worldwide.

 

Contact and International Patient Admission

 

Address and Phone Numbers

 

· Main hospital address: University Hospital Zurich (USZ), Rämistrasse 100, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland

· Ophthalmology Department phone: Direct lines are available for management or specific physicians (e.g., Prof. Barthelmes: +41 44 255 93 64)

· Central hospital phone: +41 44 255 11 11

 

International Admission Process

 

The first and most essential step is contacting the hospital’s International Patient Office. Recommended documents:

 

1. A complete summary of medical history (in English or German)

2. Diagnostic reports such as OCT scans, fundus photographs, and visual field tests

3. Referral letter from your treating physician

 

After initial review, the office forwards your case to the relevant specialist. Once approved, the treatment plan and cost estimate will be provided.

 

Why Choose the Ophthalmology Department at USZ?

 

· Unique integration of science and practice – Treatments based on the latest academic research.

· Elite multidisciplinary team – Access to world-class specialists in all subspecialties of ophthalmology.

· Strong emphasis on eye emergencies – Assurance of the fastest and most effective care when vision is at risk.

· Glorious history and forward-looking vision – Built on 150 years of legacy while pioneering tomorrow’s treatments.

 

The Department of Ophthalmology at University Hospital Zurich is more than a clinic – it is a hopeful journey toward the best possible outcome for your eye health. Here, every patient is at the center of a team whose philosophy is built on clinical excellence, scientific precision, and compassionate care.