Over the past dozen years, I have enjoyed working with many ophthalmic companies to design new devices, evaluate and improve current products, and educate fellow physicians about their use. This has given me the opportunity to work with the brightest m…
YAG laser vitreolysis vs. pars plana vitrectomy for vitreous floaters
Welcome to another edition of CEDARS/ASPENS Debates. CEDARS/ASPENS is a joint society of cornea, cataract and refractive surgery specialists, here to discuss some of the latest hot topics in ophthalmology.Vitreous floaters remain frustrating to many patients. Not only may these be visually debilitating, but also there are few effective treatment options available. In general, patients are forced to “live with it.” This month, Karl G. Stonecipher, MD, and Shachar Tauber, MD, two of my fellow Tulane alums, discuss the options of YAG laser vitreolysis and pars plana vitrectomy for the (Read more...)
Disruptive changes ahead in glaucoma space
All of us who do cataract surgery see a significant number of patients who have glaucoma as a comorbidity. At least 10% of patients who come to have cataract surgery also have a diagnosis of glaucoma or ocular hypertension, and a review of Medicare sta…
Infant presents with tearing, discharge from both eyes
A 4-month-old previously healthy full-term infant presented to her pediatrician with tearing and discharge from both eyes. The mother noted this had been present since birth and did not note any associated symptoms. On exam, the pediatrician noted normal development and bilateral tearing. The infant was diagnosed with nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Warm compresses and nasolacrimal massage were recommended.The patient was sent home; however, a week later she returned to the emergency department with right eye injection and mild edema around the right eye. She was playful on exam and had (Read more...)
Balancing clinical practice and corporate leadership presents challenges and rewards
Many practicing ophthalmologists work as consultants to industry, helping to steer research and development efforts. Some have more substantial and demanding leadership positions, particularly in small companies that focus on specific ophthalmic subspe…
Dry eye can be a surgical disease
For some reason I get all confessional with you here. Doubtless it has something to do with our shared experience in the trenches, stomping out dry eye wherever it threatens our patients. Here is my latest: I would really rather be in the operating roo…