Ophthalmology has a history of “strange,” and actually that may be good for the specialty. Of all the specialties of medicine, ophthalmology keeps seeing innovation evolve on a regular basis. The technology in this market is always evolving and it keeps getting better and more efficient.
The Lensar Laser System for refractive cataract surgery (Lensar Inc.) has received 510(k) clearance from the FDA for the execution of arcuate incisions during cataract surgery.
With advances in technology, there are now a number of ways to assess the topography of the optic nerve head, the nerve fiber layer (NFL), and the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) complex.
Beaver-Visitec International Inc. (BVI) has purchased the ophthalmic assets from Odyssey Medical Inc., which specializes in dry eye solutions.
B+L has received FDA approval for bromfenac ophthalmic solution eye drops (Prolensa), CE mark for the Victus femtosecond laser platform for creation of corneal incisions in cataract surgery, and recommendation of approval for the Trulign Toric posterior chamber IOL.
Fundus photography retains an important role in glaucoma diagnosis and follow-up, but is limited due to subjective interpretation. An educational website is being developed to help standardize optic disc analysis in difficult cases.
The effectiveness of laser peripheral iridotomy in treating angle closure disease depends on the mechanism of angle closure (pupillary block versus non-pupillary block) and the stage of disease (primary angle closure suspect, primary angle closure, or primary angle closure glaucoma).
As consumer interest in alternative therapies grows and considering their potential for harm, ophthalmologists need to be prepared to speak about this topic with their patients.
Cultural competency is defined as the application of cultural knowledge and interpersonal and clinical skills to enhance effectiveness in managing patient care. It is important because of increasing cultural and language diversity that can contribute to health disparities, and it is the law.
Optimal management of glaucoma requires an individualized approach in which treatment is tailored based on multiple considerations. Developments in therapeutic options are adding new layers to the complexity of care decisions.
A number of studies suggest myopia is a risk factor for glaucoma, but there may be an alternate explanation for the reported association.
With evidence that at least 50% of glaucoma is undiagnosed, strategies are needed to identify these individuals and assure they receive proper care. Experience so far with the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s EyeSmart EyeCheck screening initiative indicates it is a successful model for approaching the problem of undiagnosed eye disease among at-risk populations in the United States.
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Congressional staff briefed on OCT during World Glaucoma Week
Device safe and effective for both routine and complex surgeries
Procedure may have beneficial role in management of angle closure glaucoma
Different professional certifications come with different qualifications
Compounding pharmacy issues voluntary nationwide recall due to sterility issues
Efficacy is achieved with a favorable safety profile in 1-year study data
