News

Although much progress has been made in treating retinal vein occlusions, much still needs to be done. Julia Haller, MD, described the four-step, evidence-based approach that she uses to treat these patients

Peripheral ulcerative keratitis (PUK) is a complex, sight-threatening inflammatory disease that requires multimodal treatment. Corticosteroids are considered the mainstay, but a variety of other interventions are used to prevent progression and promote healing. Identification of any underlying cause is also important for directing therapeutic intervention, said Radhika Tandon, MD.

The move toward specialty specific cloud-based EHR and practice management software platforms is real and will happen. It’s no longer a question of if, but when. An overhaul of EHR platforms to offer systems that cater to specific medical practices is needed. For specialty physicians, the shift cannot come soon enough.

New tools are facilitating repositioning of a misaligned toric IOL. The corrective procedure is best undertaken sooner than later.

Taking a deeper look at several imaging technology which have advanced optical imaging.

Upgrades to a laser cataract surgery platform include features such as high-resolution video screening images that improve efficiency. In addition, a new interface with a smaller suction ring diameter expands the number of people who are candidates for laser cataract surgery.

A disposable irrigation/aspiration handpiece is designed for the soft removal of cataracts following femtosecond laser fragmentation without the use of ultrasound energy. Dee Stephenson, MD, shares personal experiences with the integration of this technology into practice.

Stephen S. Lane, MD, describes his technique for using an ocular sealant, as well as cases where he finds it useful and superior to sutures.

L. Neal Freeman, MD, MBA, takes a closer look at modifier -59, including some of the major concerns all physicians should be aware of, as it will affect claims.

Examining how utilizing an intravitreal transzonular injection can help patient compliance.

Single-use lenses for anterior segment lasers may reduce the risk of disease transmission and eliminate reductions in optical quality that occur over time with reusable lenses.

A recently approved intracameral phenylephrine and ketorolac 1%/0.3% product is expected to produce better surgical outcomes following cataract surgery or IOL replacement by preventing miosis and reducing intraoperative pain.

In patients who present with a cataract, certain histories should raise suspicion about existing damage to the posterior capsule or an increased risk for capsule rupture intraoperatively. Armed with that information, cataract surgeons can implement proper strategies for cataract removal and IOL implantation.

ACTIVATE System Control Software for the Stellaris Vision Enhancement System (“Stellaris”) and Stellaris PC (all Bausch + Lomb) includes 41 additional features and controls that collectively enhance the performance of the two systems and make them even easier to use.

In November, Actavis announced it was acquiring Allergan in a $66 billion acquisition, thus thwarting a 7-month effort by Valeant Pharmaceuticals.

Breaking down various advice and hints for ophthalmologists in order to successfully sell sunwear, and understanding why offering the frames are vital for patients’ satisfaction.

Use of a femtosecond laser for capsulotomy and lens fragmentation can facilitate cataract surgery in eyes with a rock-hard cataract.

A new digital image guidance platform (Surgical Navigation System, Cirle) for cataract surgery is an open-source system designed to enhance accurate execution of cataract incision placement, capsulorhexis sizing and centration, toric IOL alignment, and limbal relaxing incision placement.

A study of children with residual amblyopia did not find an advantage with the use of levodopa compared with a placebo group.

The approval of intracameral phenylephrine and ketorolac injection 1%/0.3% (Omidria, Omeros Corp.) could have implications for preoperative management and potentially postoperative management as well, according to John R. Wittpenn, MD, Ophthalmic Consultants of Long Island. While the FDA study evaluated pain and maintenance of pupillary dilation pertaining to intraoperative use of Omidria, the findings hint at additional benefits.

The adjustment of treatment parameters may be an effective technique for surgeons to avoid bubble formation during selective laser trabeculoplasty.

Recently, I had my photo taken with Ignaz Semmelweis. Not with the man himself, but with his statue. Although his is not a household name, the man is a physician-hero.

The hottest stories in clinical diagnosis this year included Grand Round cases and a new methodology for diagnosing keratoconus.

The hottest technology stories this year included news of a novel presbyopia-correcting IOL, what physicians should now about Google and Alcon’s smart lens technology, and a computer-animated model that helps understand accommodation and presbyopia.

The hottest editorials by Peter J. McDonnell, MD, chief medical editor of Ophthalmology Times, included why ophthalmologists are the 99%, an attack on elite educational institutes, and making fun of doctors.

The hottest stories in drug therapy this year included news about new strategies for Stargardt’s disease, why intracameral antibiotics are a must to avoid infection post-cataract surgery, and an examination of a drug-delivery micropump for chronic retina disorders.

Researchers in Zurich are helping Disney make its animated characters more realistic by zeroing in on the uniqueness of the eye.

In 2015, physicians will have to demonstrate meaningful use of electronic health records (EHRs) to get the full benefit of the Medicare and Medicaid Incentive Program. Physicians who do not successfully demonstrate meaningful use will end up having a negative payment adjustment made to their Medicare reimbursement. Mark Hollis, chief executive officer of MacPractice, Lincoln, NE, breaks down the top 5 things ophthalmologists need to know about their EHR certification before Jan. 1.

The team behind a smartphone lens adapter and app-which allows users to conduct extensive eye exams on patients-has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise money for the new invention, according to Mashable.

A physician who conducted cataract surgeries on 130 poor and elderly people at a health camp in the northern Indian state of Punjab has been arrested, according to the Associated Press.