The Essentials in Ophthalmology series represents readership acceptance of the first two series, each an unique updating publication on the progress in all of eight volumes. This is a success that was made subspecialties of ophthalmology. possible predominantly by the numerous opinion-lead- In a quarterly rhythm, eight issues are published cov- ing authors and the outstanding section editors, as well ering clinically relevant achievements in the whole field as with the constructive support of the publisher. There of ophthalmology. This timely transfer of advancements are many good reasons to continue and still improve for the best possible care of our eye patients has proven the dissemination of this didactic and clinically r- to be effective. The initial working hypothesis of provid- evant information. ing new knowledge immediately following publication in the peer-reviewed journal and not waiting for the G.K. Krieglstein textbook appears to be highly workable. R.N. Weinreb We are now entering the third cycle of the Essentials Series Editors in Ophthalmology series, having been encouraged by September 2008 Preface This third volume in the series, Essentials of Oph- helpful. Strouthidis and Garway-Heath tell us how.