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Eyes categorized as having keratoconus based on corneal topography and subsequently determined to be non-keratoconic by epithelial thickness profile criteria demonstrate good refractive stability after LASIK during up to 2 years of follow-up.

Studies conducted with waveform data obtained using a non-contact applanation tonometer show that this information pertaining to corneal biomechanical properties may have value in helping to identify early-stage compromised corneas.

Reform is reality

As members of the healthcare industry try to unravel the comprehensive health reform legislation that President Obama signed into law March 23, they are voicing concerns about such issues as patient access, payment for physicians, the creation of a new oversight board, and new taxes on medical devices.

Ludwin Monz, PhD, MBA, is the new chief executive officer of Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, succeeding Michael Kaschke, PhD, who now is chairman and a member of the company?s supervisory board.

Alcon Laboratories Inc. has received regulatory approval and finalized the acquisition of the rights in the United States for difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion 0.05% emulsion (Durezol) and the global rights, excluding Latin America, for cyclosporine (Zyclorin) from Sirion Therapeutics Inc. Alcon immediately assumed responsibility for all marketing, promotion, and sales of the difluprednate formulation.

Aton Pharma Inc. has launched an authorized generic version of its timolol maleate ophthalmic gel-forming solution (Timoptic-XE). The non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent is indicated in the treatment of elevated IOP in patients with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma. The company also will continue to make available timolol maleate under the brand name.

According to an article in the February 2010 issue of the journal Annals of Epidemiology, a study of 180,000 patients showed that taking statins lowers the risk of cataract.

Dr. Patz remembered

Arnall Patz, MD, may not have had instant name recognition among most Americans, but among ophthalmologists, he was a legend.

Results from a pilot study suggest that topical treatment with the ribonucleotide GS-101 is safe for reducing corneal neovascularization in certain patient populations.

In this point-counterpoint overview, David S. Greenfield, MD, speaks in favor of trabeculectomy, whereas Dale K. Heuer, MD, argues the merits of tube shunts.

Early results from a clinical study of a non-incisional procedure indicate the approach produces substantial corneal flattening and improves visual outcomes.

An intracorneal inlay for the treatment of presbyopia uses the pinhole effect to increase depth of focus by selecting for the central light ray and minimizing refraction.

Preliminary results from a phase 1 safety and tolerability study show no dose-limiting toxicity so far in patients treated with intravitreal injections of volociximab in combination with anti-VEGF therapy for neovascular age-related macular degeneration.

University of Iowa's Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences has long developed a reputation for educating its residents in a nurturing and supportive environment.

Optic atrophy is itself not a diagnosis, but a stepping stone for further work-up.