Cataract News - OphthalmologyWeb

American Academy Of Ophthalmology Joins Forces With Middle East Africa Council Of Ophthalmology For Joint Meeting In Chicago October 16 To 19

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The largest and most comprehensive ophthalmic educational meeting in the world, the American Academy of Ophthalmology's (Academy) 2010 Joint Meeting in conjunction with the Middle East Africa Council of Ophthalmology (MEACO) will be taking place in Chicago, October 16 to 19.

Very Low Birth Weight Associated With Bilateral, Unilateral Cataracts

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Bilateral and unilateral cataracts are both associated with very low birth weight, a study found. In addition, bilateral cataracts are more closely associated with low birth weight, and unilateral cataracts are correlated with first pregnancies.

Alcon Launches AcrySof(R) IQ ReSTOR(R)ToricIntraocular Lens Outside The United States

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE: ACL), the world's leader in eye care and cataract surgery, announced its launch of the AcrySof(R) IQ ReSTOR(R) Multifocal Toric intraocular lens (IOL) outside the United States during the 2010 European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) annual meeting in Paris, France.

Ziemer Group Announces The FEMTO LDVT Crystal Line

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

At the opening of the ESCRS 2010 Convention in Paris, France, Ziemer Group is unveiling its new generation of its successful Femtosecond Surgical Laser. Based on the experience from over half a million Z-LASIK procedures, Ziemer engineers have continuously further improved and optimized all key components of the Ziemer FEMTO LDV. The result of their effort is now available as an all-new package, named the "Crystal Line".

French Laboratoires Thea Acquires The Mydriasert� Ophthalmic Insert From Carl Zeiss Meditec

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 09:32:00 GMT

Laboratoires Thea, the leading independent ophthalmic group in Europe, completes its innovative product range with the announcement of the final acquisition of Mydriasert�. Mydriasert�, the 1st mydriatic ophthalmic insert, is indicated for dilated fundus examination (DFE) or cataract surgery, the most widely implemented surgical procedure. Regarding cataract surgery, the market represents close to 300 000 procedures in the UK and Ireland and 3 million in Europe each year.

Long-Term Implications Of Health Care Reform May Affect Physician Revenue Streams In Future

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Health care reform measures passed earlier this year will have little immediate impact on the practice of retinal specialists, but as scheduled initiatives are implemented, all ophthalmologists can expect dramatic changes.

Kowa Optimed Announces Ronald Kaiser As Vice President Of Medical Sales

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Kowa Optimed, Inc., a leading innovator of integrated ophthalmic diagnostic systems, has named Ronald Kaiser as its newly appointed Vice President of Medical Sales effective September 1st, 2010. A well-accomplished writer and lecturer, bringing over 36 years of experience in the Medical/ Ophthalmic field, Kaiser is ideally suited to lead Kowa Optimed's medical sales team, as well as directly contribute to the company's overall growth. Kaiser most recently served as the National Sales and Marketing Manager at Canon U.S.A. Inc., where he was responsible for Sales activities in the USA, Latin America and Canada as well as new product development projects and new business opportunities.

Analysis Of Biometric Data May Supply Cataract Surgeons With Normative Values

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A study of biometric measurements and prevalence data in 15,448 patients may serve as a useful normative data set for ophthalmologists.

Smaller-Gauge Instruments Easier To Manipulate For Posterior Capsulotomy, Anterior Vitrectomy In Pediatric Eyes

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Use of smaller-gauge instruments to perform posterior capsulotomy and anterior vitrectomy may give the surgeon advantages during cataract surgery on pediatric patients while also limiting the occurrence of posterior capsule opacification.

WaveTec Vision Appoints New President And Chief Executive Officer

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

WaveTec Vision, the leader in intraoperative wavefront technology for refractive cataract surgeons, announces the appointment of Thomas G. Frinzi as the company's President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Frinzi replaces Tom Berryman who after a period of transition will be leaving the company to pursue other entrepreneurial ventures.

Loss Of Central ICL Vaulting Associated With Anterior Subcapsular Cataract In Myopes

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Central vaulting of a posterior chamber phakic IOL diminished steadily for up to 10 years, a study found. In addition, the investigators reported a significant link between insufficient ICL vaulting and the development of anterior subcapsular cataract.

Poverty - Not Sight Loss - Explains Low Quality Of Life For Visually Impaired People, Says New Research

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

In a startling reversal of popular assumptions new research commissioned by Thomas Pocklington Trust shows that when people with sight loss suffer depression and low quality of life it is more to do with low incomes, ill health and lack of social participation, than it is to do with their loss of vision.

Durezol Helps Eyes Recover From Cataract Surgery More Quickly

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Curiosity leads to insight, and eye surgeon Kerry Solomon's curiosity led to a discovery that will have a positive impact on the vision of cataract surgery patients everywhere for years to come.

Topcon Enters Therapeutic Laser Market, Acquires Retina And Glaucoma Business Of OptiMedica

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Topcon Corporation announces that it has signed a definitive agreement to purchase the glaucoma - and retina - related assets of OptiMedica Corporation (Santa Clara, CA,USA).

FedEx Delivers Two Sight-Saving Programs In Southeast Asia Through ORBIS Flying Eye Hospital

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 06:19:00 GMT

Vietnam and the Philippines Set to Receive Ophthalmic Skills Exchange Programs from FedEx Sponsorship of ORBIS Program

OptiMedica Sells Retina And Glaucoma Business To Topcon, Sharpens Focus On Laser Cataract Surgery Market

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Global ophthalmic device company OptiMedica Corp. has announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to sell its retina and glaucoma assets to Topcon Corp., a strategic move that positions OptiMedica to focus exclusively on the continued development and commercialization of advanced technologies for the treatment of cataract. The largest acquisition by Topcon's medical division to date, the sale provides OptiMedica with significant additional funding for the global market launch of its laser cataract surgery system as well as continued cataract-focused research and development.

FDA Panel Recommends Premarket Approval For IOP-Lowering Micro-Bypass Stent

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Amid some concern about long-term efficacy, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Ophthalmic Devices Panel recommended premarket approval of the Glaukos iStent Trabecular Micro-Bypass Stent July 30.

Study Finds Limbal Relaxing Incision With MICS Effectively Corrects Astigmatism

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Limbal relaxing incision combined with bimanual microincision cataract surgery is an easy-to-follow and accurate technique for correcting pre-existing astigmatism, a study found.

RoundTable Healthcare Partners Establishes New Ophthalmology Platform

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 07:20:00 GMT

RoundTable Healthcare Partners ("RoundTable"), an operating-oriented private equity firm focused exclusively on the healthcare industry, announced today that it has established a platform business in the ophthalmology market. The new platform company, Beaver-Visitec International, Inc. ("Beaver-Visitec"), consists of ophthalmology products and assets recently acquired from BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) and Medtronic, Inc.

Intracameral Epinephrine Injection And Cataract Surgery Prove Safe In Low-Risk Eyes

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Intracameral epinephrine use did not result in central macular edema in low-risk eyes that underwent successful cataract surgery, a study showed.

NASA Talk Is High Tech Prescription For Contact Lenses

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 06:00:00 GMT

Imagine your contact lenses being able to improve your vision and tell your temperature.

Eye Vitamin Recalled Over Reports Of Choking

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The manufacturer of a softgel supplement marketed as an eye vitamin issued a voluntary recall of the product due to a potential choking hazard.

Mean IOP Reduction, Medication Number Lowest In Combined Cataract, Stents

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Two stents combined with cataract surgery had better outcomes than cataract surgery alone in open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension patients, a study found.

Omeros Corporation Enrolls First Patient In Phase 2b Clinical Trial Evaluating OMS302 In Patients Undergoing Cataract Surgery

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Omeros Corporation (Nasdaq: OMER), a biopharmaceutical company committed to discovering, developing and commercializing products focused on inflammation and disorders of the central nervous system, today announced that it has enrolled the first patient in its Phase 2b clinical trial evaluating OMS302 in patients undergoing cataract surgery. OMS302, added to standard irrigation solution used during ophthalmologic surgery, is Omeros' proprietary PharmacoSurgery product in development to maintain mydriasis (pupil dilation) and reduce postoperative pain and inflammation following cataract and other lens replacement surgery.

Academy Names Medical Director For Governmental Affairs

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Ophthalmology has named Michael X. Repka, MD, to the newly created position of Medical Director for Governmental Affairs. The position was created to provide Washington-based physician leadership on Academy issues and critical health care topics being debated on Capitol Hill and before government regulators.

Omeros Enrolls First Patient In Phase 2b Clinical Trial Evaluating OMS302 In Patients Undergoing Cataract Surgery

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Omeros Corporation , a biopharmaceutical company committed to discovering, developing and commercializing products focused on inflammation and disorders of the central nervous system, today announced that it has enrolled the first patient in its Phase 2b clinical trial evaluating OMS302 in patients undergoing cataract surgery. OMS302, added to standard irrigation solution used during ophthalmologic surgery, is Omeros' proprietary PharmacoSurgery? product in development to maintain mydriasis (pupil dilation) and reduce postoperative pain and inflammation following cataract and other lens replacement surgery.

Macular Lesions Portend Poor Visual Outcomes In Uveitic Eyes After Cataract Surgery

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Phacoemulsification with IOL implantation proved satisfactory in most patients with uveitis, with relatively few complications, a study showed.

Successful Pioneering Eye Surgery On Little Girl

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Children are left blind by cataracts and other treatable eye diseases on a regular basis, but thanks to a pioneering implant technique, a four-year-old girl has become the first child in this country to benefit from a new procedure to correct bilateral congenital cataracts which affected her both eyes.

Clear Corneal, Scleral Incisions Similarly Suitable For MICS

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A 2-mm clear corneal incision and a 2-mm scleral tunnel incision proved equally appropriate for microincision cataract surgery, a study showed.

Indian Hospital Combats Blindness

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Through a mixture of innovative business practices, new technologies and altruism, Aravind Eye Care Hospital created a new model for eliminating "needless blindness" in India, S. Aravind, an ophthalmologist working as an administrator at the hospital, said during a presentation in Kreindler Auditorium this Wednesday. The hospital, which has several locations in the Indian Tamil Nadu state, offers both free and fee-based care.

Study Advises Caution For IOL Implantation In Children 6 Months And Younger

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A study examining primary IOL correction of monocular aphakia in infancy found that at 1 year, 63% of children in an IOL implantation-only group needed one or more additional intraocular operations, as opposed to 12% of children in a contact lens-only group.

Technology Has Cataracts Patients Seeing Clearer

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness and vision loss in the United States, but new technology called Precision Vision Orange is allowing patients to see clearly again.

Alcon, Inc. (ACL) To Buy Laser-Surgery Firm LenSx For $362 Million

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

-Alcon, Inc. (NYSE: ACL) announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire LenSx Lasers, Inc, a privately held company that developed the first femtosecond laser to receive U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance for use as a part of cataract surgery. The LenSx system is indicated for anterior capsulotomy and laser phacofragmentation during cataract surgery, providing a complementary surgical approach to certain manual steps within the traditional cataract procedure.

Alcon To Acquire LenSx Lasers, Inc., Developer Of Femtosecond Laser Technology For Increased Precision Of Manual Surgical Steps During Cataract Surgery

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE: ACL) announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire LenSx Lasers, Inc, a privately held company that developed the first femtosecond laser to receive U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance for use as a part of cataract surgery.

FDA Approves First Implantable Miniature Telescope To Improve Sight Of AMD Patients

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced it has approved the Implantable Miniature Telescope (IMT) to improve vision in some patients with end-stage, age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Objective Evidence Shows IOL Accommodation Maintenance Over 3 Years

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Ultrasound biomicroscopy and iTrace wavefront aberrometry data over a period of 3 years after cataract surgery demonstrate the mechanism of accommodation and stability of performance for the Synchrony IOL.

Sun-Sensitizing Medications Could Affect Risk Of Cortical Cataract

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A study examining sun-sensitizing medications and cumulative incidence of age-related cataract found evidence of an interaction between ultraviolet-B exposure and sun-sensitizing medications for cortical cataract.

Alcon Announces Shareholder Meeting To Effect Previously Agreed Conditional Replacement Of Nestl�-Nominated Directors

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE:ACL) ("Alcon") announced today that the Alcon board of directors resolved to hold an extraordinary general meeting of the Alcon shareholders, to be held on August 16, 2010 in Zug, Switzerland. The purpose of the meeting is to hold a shareholder vote on the conditional election of directors nominated by Novartis AG ("Novartis") to replace directors nominated by Nestl� S.A. ("Nestl�") if and when Novartis acquires Nestl�'s remaining shares of Alcon. The directors nominated by Novartis and standing for election are:

American Academy Of Ophthalmology Sends Supplies To Haitian Colleagues

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Ophthalmology's (Academy) Task Force on Haiti Recovery, in cooperation with the Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology (PAAO), is coordinating donation and distribution of ophthalmic equipment and supplies to Haitian ophthalmologists, including several exam lanes (complete sets of the equipment needed to provide a thorough eye exam)*, thousands of doses of pharmaceuticals, surgical supplies, educational materials and much more. View a complete list of all in-kind donations as a result of the efforts of the task force.

Intracameral Prophylaxis Does Not Appear To Protect Against IFIS

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The incidence of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome among patients taking tamsulosin may not be as high as previously expected, and prophylactic use of lidocaine-epinephrine does not appear to affect incidence, according to a study.

Steroid Injection At End Of Phaco In Diabetic Eyes May Improve Anatomic Outcomes

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Prophylactic administration of intravitreal triamcinolone at the conclusion of phacoemulsification surgery in patients with diabetes may reduce the incidence of cystoid macular edema and central subfield thickness, but the additional measure does not appear to affect visual acuity.

Bausch + Lomb Names Robert E. Grant as CEO and President of its Surgical Business

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

ROCHESTER, N.Y. - Bausch + Lomb, the global eye health company, has named Robert E. Grant chief executive officer and president of its global Surgical business, effective August 1.

Diet, Meds And Smoking Linked To Eye Disease Risks

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A healthy diet helps guard against cataracts, while certain medications raise the risks of this common cause of vision loss, two new studies suggest.

Healthy Diet Associated With Lower Risk Of Cataracts In Women

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Women who eat foods rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals may have a lower risk of developing the most common type of cataract that occurs in the United States, according to a report in the June issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Sun-Sensitizing Medications, Sun Exposure Associated With Common Type Of Cataract

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The use of medications that increase sensitivity to the sun, combined with exposure to sunlight, appears to be associated with the risk of age-related cataract, according to a report posted online today that will appear in the August print issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

National Eye Institute Hosts Translational Research And Vision Symposium

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The National Eye Institute (NEI), part of the National Institutes of Health, is bringing together premier researchers who translate molecular and genetic approaches from the laboratory to visual system diseases in the clinic.

BD Signs Agreements To Sell Ophthalmic Systems Unit, Other Platforms

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 05:01:00 GMT

BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) , a leading global medical technology company, announced today that it has signed agreements to sell certain assets of its BD Medical segment, including the Ophthalmic Systems unit as well as the surgical blades, critical care and extended dwell catheter product platforms of the Medical Surgical Systems unit, to RoundTable Healthcare Partners, an operating-oriented private equity firm focused on the healthcare industry based in Lake Forest, Illinois, and two of its portfolio companies, Argon Medical Devices, Inc. and Aspen Surgical Products, Inc. The financial terms of the agreements were not disclosed.

Femtosecond Laser Cataract Surgery Could Be Effective In Difficult Cases

Tue, 08 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Femtosecond laser cataract surgery could make cases, such as those with traumatic cataracts, dislocated lenses and zonular dehiscence, safer to perform with faster phacoemulsification at a reduced power, a physician said here.

Stepwise Approach To Small Pupil Cataract Cases Could Produce Best Results

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Managing successful small pupil cataract surgery could be assisted by a step-by-step approach that begins with an intracameral injection of irrigation solution and proceeds to using a pupil expander device as a final option, an expert said here.

Three Phaco Techniques Yield Good Visual Outcomes, Low Complication Rates

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Coaxial, microcoaxial and biaxial microincision phacoemulsification were all effective and resulted in good visual outcomes, a study showed.

SSRIs Linked To Cataracts

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants may be associated with cataract risk among older adults, a large population study from Canada found.

Research Suggests Latinos At Highest Risk For Eye Disease

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 08:02:00 GMT

New research suggests Latinos have the highest rates of eye disease in the United States, and one Los Angeles area clinic, Eye Physicians of Long Beach, is supremely prepared to meet the community's eye care needs.

The Foundation Of The American Academy Of Ophthalmology's Museum Of Vision Announces New Oral History Series

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Museum of Vision announced this week the publication of a new oral history series recorded in partnership with the Academy Seniors Committee of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and StoryCorps, a national project of Sound Portraits Productions.

CME Prevention Crucial In Diabetic Patients Who Undergo Cataract Surgery

Wed, 26 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Careful preoperative assessment and, if needed, aggressive treatment of cystoid macular edema in diabetic patients who undergo cataract surgery are mandatory, according to one surgeon speaking here.

Femtosecond Laser Cataract Surgery Shows Encouraging Results

Mon, 24 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Preliminary results of femtosecond laser cataract surgery are promising, according to a presenter here.

Crystalens AOT Receives Quarter Diopter Approval

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Bausch + Lomb announced today that it has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market the Crystalens AOT in quarter diopter steps in the United States. The Crystalens accommodating intraocular lens (IOL) was first approved by the FDA in November 2003. Bausch + Lomb made the announcement today on the heels of the recent New Technology IOL (NTIOL) classification by CMS. The Crystalens AOT is the fifth generation of the only FDA-approved accommodating lens.

FDA Task Force Releases Detailed Report On Proposed Disclosure Measures

Thu, 20 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Transparency Task Force has released a report on proposals for increasing the disclosure of information while protecting confidentiality and patient information.

LensAR Laser System™ Receives FDA Clearance For Use In Cataract Surgery

Tue, 18 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

LensAR, Inc., the leading developer of next generation laser technology for cataract surgery and presbyopia, today announced that the company has received 510(k) clearance from the FDA for use of the LensAR Laser System for anterior capsulotomy during cataract surgery.

Multifocal IOL Has High Rate Of Spectacle Independence

Mon, 17 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A multifocal IOL released a year ago has achieved a high rate of spectacle independence with a low rate of visual disturbances and photic phenomena, according to a speaker here.

Modified Ring Allows For Microincision Cataract Surgery With Capsular Bag Support

Tue, 11 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A modified Cionni ring makes IOL implantation easy and safe in cases of zonulysis or other problems requiring stabilization of the bag during microincision cataract surgery.

Implanted Lenses May Not Be Superior To Contacts For Babies With Cataracts

Tue, 11 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Among infants who undergo surgery to treat congenital cataract, surgical lens replacement appears to cause more complications while achieving the same treatment benefit as treatment with contact lenses, according to a report posted online today that will appear in the July print issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Leading Health Information Source For Women Offers Guidance On Protecting Eyes Against Harmful UV Radiation

Wed, 05 May 2010 04:17:00 GMT

It's just as important to protect your eyes from the sun's harmful rays as it is to shield your skin. Yet many families are not taking simple, important steps to protect their eyes from ultraviolet (UV) exposure.

U.s. Latinos Have High Rates Of Developing Vision Loss And Certain Eye Conditions

Mon, 03 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Latinos have higher rates of developing visual impairment, blindness, diabetic eye disease, and cataracts than non-Hispanic whites, researchers found. These are the first estimates of visual impairment and eye disease development in Latinos, the largest and fastest growing minority population in the United States.

US Latinos Have High Rates Of Developing Vision Loss And Certain Eye Conditions

Mon, 03 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Digital Light Meter for Pelli-Robson Test

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Richmond Products' digital Luxmeter is designed to measure light values prior to the Pelli-Robson contrast test to ensure the correct illumination for contrast sensitivity.

Earning A 2 Percent PQRI Bonus Made Easier With Outcomes Database - American Academy Of Ophthalmology

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Academy and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) are bringing their members a new way to report on ophthalmology quality measures in Medicare's Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI). The Ophthalmic Patient Outcomes Database, from OutcomeT, allows ophthalmologists to collect and submit data through the CMS-qualified OutcomeT PQRI Registry.

OptiMedica Unveils Details Behind Femtosecond Laser For Cataract

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

OptiMedica Corp., a global ophthalmic device company, has released new details regarding the development of its proprietary femtosecond laser system for cataract surgery. The new system, which combines OptiMedica's breakthrough pattern scanning technology, an ultra-fast laser and integrated Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) imaging, is designed to dramatically improve the complex cataract procedure by replacing its most technically demanding and manual steps.

Carl Zeiss Meditec Unveils Its New Glaucoma Solutions Offering At ASCRS Glaucoma Day

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Carl Zeiss Meditec introduced its Glaucoma Solutions offering at the American Academy Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) on Glaucoma Day in Boston, Mass. Featuring the most complete portfolio of diagnostic, therapeutic and data management modalities, Carl Zeiss Meditec's Glaucoma Solutions are designed to enable doctors to preserve vision throughout a patient's lifetime, from early glaucoma detection to disease monitoring to long-term management.

Study Confirms Intracameral Antibiotic Significantly Reduces Risk Of Postop Endophthalmitis

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Prophylactic intracameral cefuroxime markedly reduced acute-onset endophthalmitis after cataract surgery, according to a large study.

Study Of Lacrisert� (hydroxypropyl Cellulose Ophthalmic) Dry Eye Insert At World Cornea Congress

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Aton Pharma, Inc. announced today that results from a large multi-center patient registry study of its Lacrisert� ophthalmic insert will be presented this week during World Cornea Congress IV (April 7-9, Boston). Lacrisert (insert) is a preservative-free, once-daily*, sustained release prescription insert indicated for moderate to severe dry eye, that helps to retain moisture, stabilize the tear film, and lubricate the eye.

LensAR Strengthens Team with Appointments of Medical Monitor and Two Board Members

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

LensAR, Inc., the leading developer of next generation laser technology for cataract surgery and presbyopia, today announced the appointment of David F. Chang, M.D. as the company's medical monitor, as well as the appointments of Lothar Koob and John Gilbert to the company's board of directors. These appointments provide LensAR with an expanded breadth of key scientific and business expertise to support the company's ongoing development of the LensAR Laser SystemT.

High Resolution Lenses From Volk Optical At ARVO

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Volk Optical, the industry leader in aspheric optics, will be exhibiting at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) Annual Meeting, May 2 through 6 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

LensAR Announces Issuance Of Foundational Patent In Laser Treatment Of The Natural Crystalline Lens

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 00:00:00 GMT

LensAR, Inc., the leading developer of next generation laser technology for cataract surgery and presbyopia, today announced the issuance of United States patent 7,655,002. This patent addresses methods for using laser technology to increase the flexibility of the ocular lens in order to both restore accommodation in presbyopia patients and allow easier removal of hardened lenses in cataract patients. LensAR believes that this novel intellectual property will provide the company with proprietary advantages for its LensAR Laser System(tm) in cataract surgery and the treatment of presbyopia. The issued patent is based on the groundbreaking work of the inventor Raymond I. Myers, O.D., clinical professor at the University of Missouri, St. Louis, and was in-licensed exclusively by LensAR at the time of the company's formation in 2004.

Can New Artificial Intraocular Lenses Replace Reading Glasses?

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Berlin - More and more frequently patients can dispense with glasses after cataract surgery. This is made possible by modern lens implants, which enable both near and distant vision. In the meantime, this type of lens can replace glasses in cases of classic presbyopia. Progress in lens technology is one of the topics at the World Ophthalmology Congress (WOC� 2010). The world's largest ophthalmologic congress takes place in June in Berlin.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors Linked To Potential Higher Risk For Cataracts

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors were associated with an increased risk for cataracts, a large pharmacoepidemiologic study found, but the study did not control for cigarette smoking.

Clinical And Pre-Clinical Results For The LensAR Laser System For Cataract Surgery And Presbyopia Treatment To Be Presented At ASCRS

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 04:30:00 GMT

Winter Park, FL, March 25, 2010 - LensAR, Inc., a leading developer of next generation laser technology for cataract surgery and other ocular applications, today announced that four of the company's scientific collaborators will present clinical and pre-clinical data for the LensAR Laser System at the upcoming 2010 Annual Meeting of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS). The presentations will include results from studies designed to assess the performance of the LensAR Laser System in cataract surgery and the treatment of presbyopia. The conference will be held April 9-14, 2010 in Boston, MA.

Kowa Optimed Announces Promotion Of Craig Ross To President And COO; Names Kowa Executive Shinji Toyoda To Vice-Chairman

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Los Angeles, CA - Kowa Optimed, Inc., is setting the standard for new product and technology innovations, announces the promotion of Craig C. Ross to president and chief operating officer of the company, and named Shinji Toyoda as its new Vice- Chairman.

LensAR Advances Commercialization Efforts with Appointment of Key Sales and Marketing Executives

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Winter Park, FL, March 23, 2010 - LensAR, Inc., a leading developer of next generation laser technology for cataract surgery and other ocular applications, today announced the appointment of Michael O'Rourke as the company's senior vice president of global sales and marketing and Ron Goldrich as senior vice president of sales. The addition of Mr. O'Rourke and Mr. Goldrich, who both possess extensive product commercialization, sales and marketing experience in the ophthalmic, pharmaceutical and medical device industries, represents a significant step in LensAR's planned efforts to commercialize its revolutionary LensAR Laser System.

Laser Treatment May Work For Cataracts

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in the world, and are often related to aging. In a common form of cataracts, proteins in the lens change over time, developing chromophores - molecular add-ons that absorb color in the blue part of the spectrum. Chromophores reduce the amount of light reaching the retina (and give the lens a yellow-brown appearance), but they also disrupt the structure of the lens proteins, causing light to scatter.

Medicare Patients 5.5 Times More Likely To Get Cataract Surgery Than VA Patients, Study Finds

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

INDIANAPOLIS - Patients seen at private facilities reimbursed by Medicare were more than 550 percent more likely to have routine cataract surgery than those who received their care from the Department of Veterans Affairs, a strong indication that the frequency of cataract surgery may be responsive to financial incentives to either or both the medical facility and the physicians who perform the procedure.

Preoperative Adjustments Based On Cataract Grade Enhance Phaco Efficiency

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Preoperatively customizing phacoemulsification parameters based on objective measurements of cataract density significantly reduced phacoemulsification time, a study showed.

FDA Issues Warning To Ista Over Misleading Sales Materials

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning letter to Ista Pharmaceuticals in reference to advertising materials used to market the drug Xibrom.

Phaco, Small-Incision Cataract Surgery Have No Postop Differences In Endothelial Cell Count Loss

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Phacoemulsification and manual small-incision cataract surgery showed similar results for some postoperative factors at 6 weeks after surgery, a study found.

Abbott Receives U.S. FDA Approval For New Cataract Multifocal Intraocular Lens

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Abbott announced today it has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for the TECNIS� Multifocal 1-Piece intraocular lens (IOL) for cataract patients with and without presbyopia.

Santen Ltd. Announces Change In Management Structure For U.S. Subsidiary Organization

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Japan's leading ophthalmic pharmaceutical company, announced today that Adrienne L. Graves, PhD, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of its wholly-owned U.S. subsidiary, Santen Inc. (Napa, CA), has resigned and will continue to work with Santen as a strategic consultant and advisor to the Senior Management of Santen.

Anti-Depressants Bring Higher Risk Of Developing Cataracts: UBC-Vancouver Coastal Health Research

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Some anti-depressant drugs are associated with an increased chance of developing cataracts, according to a new statistical study by researchers at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute and McGill University.

ISTA Pharmaceuticals Receives Action Date For FDA Review Of Once-Daily XiDay(TM)

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:01:00 GMT

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. , today announced the Company's supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) for once-daily XiDay(TM) (bromfenac ophthalmic solution) has been accepted for review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA has granted XiDay a standard review time of ten months, assigning ISTA a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) action date of October 16, 2010. ISTA's request for a shorter, six-month priority review is still under consideration by the FDA.

Digital Wide Field And SLT Lenses From Volk Optical At ASCRS

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Volk Optical, the industry leader in aspheric optics, will be exhibiting at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Annual Meeting, April 9 through 14 at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (Massachusetts).

Study Links Hormone Replacement Therapy And Elevated Cataract Risk

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Postmenopausal women undergoing long-term hormone replacement therapy may have an elevated risk of cataract, according to a large Swedish study.

Second Dose Of Gene Therapy For Inherited Blindness Proves Safe In Animal Studies

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

PHILADELPHIA - Gene therapy for a severe inherited blindness, which produced dramatic improvements last year in 12 children and young adults who received the treatment in a clinical trial, has cleared another hurdle. The same research team that conducted the human trial now reports that a study in animals has shown that a second injection of genes into the opposite, previously untreated eye is safe and effective, with no signs of interference from unwanted immune reactions following the earlier injection.

Women's Hormone Replacement Therapy Linked To Cataracts; Smoking May Raise Uveitis Risk

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Intriguing findings on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and cataract risk, and on smoking and uveitis risk are reported in this month's Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Vision Problems Linked To Higher Dementia Risk

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Elderly adults with poor vision, particularly untreated vision problems, may have a higher risk of developing dementia than those with better vision, a new study suggests.

Statins Significantly Reduce Cataract Risk In Patients Younger Than 75 Years

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Consistent statin use protected against cataract in patients younger than 75 years, according to a large study.

Accommodation Should Not Be Confused With The Ability To See At Near, Surgeon Says

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Objective measures of accommodation using dynamic aberrometry with the AMO WaveFront Sciences Complete Ophthalmic Analysis System failed to demonstrate any effect in single-optic accommodating IOLs, according to one surgeon.

New Lens Proves Safe In Combined Cataract-Vitrectomy Procedures

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

BUDAPEST, Hungary - Early results of the implantation of a new aspheric hydrophobic single-piece IOL, the 860FAB from Medicontur, indicate that this lens can be used safely for combined cataract and vitreoretinal surgery.

Prophylaxis With Intracameral Cefuroxime Continues To Prove Effective In Preventing Endophthalmitis

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Results of a large retrospective series of patients in a single hospital unit confirm that the use of intracameral cefuroxime significantly lowers the incidence of endophthalmitis after cataract surgery.

A Common Cholesterol Drug Fights Cataracts, Too

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Statins, a class of drugs used to lower cholesterol levels, have been successfully fighting heart disease for years. A new study from Tel Aviv University has now found that the same drugs cut the risks of cataracts in men by almost 40%.

Younger Cataract Patients Report Better Vision Than Older Patients At 10 Years Postop

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Cataract patients younger than 65 years at the time of surgery showed more stable self-reported and clinically evaluated visual function than an older comparator group at 10 years out, according to a study.

Computer Simulation Tool Supplements Residents' Training In Cataract Surgery

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Cataract Surgery Trainer, a virtual training tool which helps to train physicians to perform cataract surgery, has been shown to enhance teaching in cataract surgery when compared to traditional teaching methods. The results of a multi-center study evaluating the program's effectiveness as a supplement to traditional teaching tools was published in the February issue of Ophthalmology.

American Board of Ophthalmology Appoints Three New Directors

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Keith H. Baratz, MD, is Associate Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at the Mayo Clinic School of Medicine in Rochester, MN and serves on the editorial board of Archives of Ophthalmology. He is also the former Residency Director and former Director of Research in Mayo's Department of Ophthalmology.

STAAR Surgical's Visian� ICL Is First Phakic Lens To Be Approved In Japan

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

STAAR Surgical Company , a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of minimally invasive ophthalmic products, announced today regulatory approval from the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW) to market the Company's Visian Implantable Collamer� Lens (ICL) in Japan.

Beyond Sunglasses And Baseball Caps: Study Shows UV-Blocking Contact Lenses Can Protect Eyes From Sun Damage

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

AREDS Analysis Provides Insight On Proposed Link Between Cataract Surgery, AMD Progression

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

KOLOA, Hawaii - Although the study was not designed to evaluate risk of progression of age-related macular degeneration after cataract extraction, review of AREDS data provides additional information about the potential risk, according to a speaker here.

Apodized Diffractive Aspheric Multifocal IOL Has Good Visual Results, High Rate Of Spectacle Independence

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Bilateral implantation of an apodized diffractive aspheric multifocal IOL with +3.0 D add power resulted in patients achieving good visual results, spectacle independence and satisfaction, a study found.

Bausch & Lomb Introduces The Crystalens� Aspheric Optic (AO) Lens

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 08:05:00 GMT

Bausch & Lomb today announced that it is launching the Crystalens� AO, the first aberration-free accommodating intraocular lens (IOL) with aspheric optics to cataract surgeons worldwide. The announcement follows the recent FDA approval of this newest Bausch & Lomb surgical product. The Crystalens AO, combined with the successful Crystalens HD and the Crystalens Five-0, will further establish Crystalens as the market leader in the premium IOL market.

Vissum Launches Joint Project For Research And Development In Ophthalmology

Thu, 31 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Vissum has launched a large national research project - combining the forces of companies, public and private clinics, and research institutes - aimed at developing personalized and minimally invasive ophthalmology.

First Human Study Of New-Design Accommodating IOL Yields Positive Outcomes

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new accommodating IOL design provided positive visual and refractive outcomes and was well-tolerated, according to data from the first human study of the implant.

High-Dose Vitamin C May Boost Women's Cataract Risk

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Women who take high-dose vitamin C supplements may be increasing their risk of age-related cataracts, hint findings of a Swedish study.

ISTA Pharmaceuticals Submits Supplemental New Drug Application To The FDA For Once-Daily XiDay(TM)

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: ISTA), today announced the Company submitted a supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for bromfenac ophthalmic solution dosed once-daily as a treatment for ocular inflammation and pain following cataract surgery. ISTA currently markets Xibrom(TM) (bromfenac ophthalmic solution) 0.09%, which is an eye drop labeled for use twice-daily, beginning 24 hours after cataract surgery. If approved, ISTA plans to market the once-daily product under the brand name XiDay(TM).

InSite Vision To Advance New Ocular Anti-Inflammatory Candidate

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

InSite Vision Incorporated (OTCBB: INSV), a company developing ophthalmic products for unmet eye care needs, today announced plans to advance new development candidate ISV-303, a topical anti-inflammatory product intended to reduce the pain and swelling associated with ocular surgery. InSite Vision formulated a lower concentration of bromfenac with its proprietary DuraSite� technology to create a proprietary therapeutic product. InSite Vision intends to advance ISV-303 into clinical studies pending the completion of Investigational New Drug-enabling toxicology studies in the first half of 2010.

Study Shows Low Rates Of IOL Decentration, Pseudophakodonesis At 10 Years Postop

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The incidence of posterior chamber IOL dislocation and excessive IOL movement was low 10 years after cataract surgery, according to a study.

New Inherited Eye Disease Discovered

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

University of Iowa researchers have found the existence of a new, rare inherited retinal disease. Now the search is on to find the genetic cause, which investigators hope will increase understanding of more common retinal diseases.

LCA-Vision Joins Forces With The Wounded Warrior Project To Give The Gift Of Enhanced Vision To Wounded American Heroes

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 05:31:00 GMT

LCA-Vision Inc., a leading provider of laser vision correction services under the LasikPlus� brand, announced today that it has joined forces with the Wounded Warrior Project to provide free LasikPlus� corrective vision surgery to U.S. military veterans and their spouses/caregivers across the nation. LCA-Vision supports the Wounded Warrior Project, and is doing its part to enhance the lives of America's heroes.

Umbilical Stem Cells May Help Recover Lost Vision For Those With Corneal Disease

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

CINCINNATI-New research from the University of Cincinnati (UC) may help in the recovery of lost vision for patients with corneal scarring.

Management Capacity Is Needed To Tackle Blindness In Sub-Saharan Africa

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest regional burden of blindness and visual impairment in the world (it has 11% of the world's population, but around 20% of the world's blindness). But simply putting in place more clinically trained manpower alone will not be sufficient to meet eye care needs, say Susan Lewallen (Kilimanjaro Centre for Community Ophthalmology, Good Samaritan Foundation, Moshi, Tanzania) and Amir Bedri Kello (Light for the World, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia). Dedicated managerial support will also be needed, they argue. "Management systems run by professional nonclinical personnel are needed to support clinical personnel so that they can be productive."

Clarity Medical Systems, Inc. Appoints New Board Member

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pleasanton, CA- November 17, 2009-Clarity Medical Systems, Inc., a rapidly-growing, commercial-stage, pediatric ophthalmic imaging and informatics company, is pleased to announce the appointment of Doug Post to its Board of Directors. Mr. Post's addition further strengthens Clarity's leadership and provides diversity given his extensive experience in the anterior segment and adult ophthalmology - an area into which the company will expand in the coming years.

The World's Most Common Operation

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As many as 10 million people around the world suffer from cataracts. Thomas Kohnen of the Goethe University in Frankfurt and his coauthors discuss cataract surgery with the implantation of an artificial lens in the current issue of Deutsches �rzteblatt International (Dtsch Arztebl Int 2009; 106[43]: 695�).

Cataract Surgery Does Not Appear Associated With Worsening Of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Age-related macular degeneration does not appear to progress at a higher rate among individuals who have had surgery to treat cataract, contrary to previous reports that treating one cause of vision loss worsens the other, according to a report in the November issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

California: Hospital Warns Of Cataracts Risk In CT Scans

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A Los Angeles hospital where patients were exposed to X-ray radiation overdoses during CT scans said its investigation found the patients could be at higher risk of cataracts.

Near Vision Research Study

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Teaneck, NJ/ - November 3, 2009 - The Cornea and Laser Eye Institute is participating in a research study to determine if an investigational corneal inlay can safely and effectively reduce the need for reading glasses. Dr. Peter Hersh, the study doctor, will perform the procedures.

LenSar: New Laser Cure For Cataracts

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 03:01:00 GMT

A new laser therapy that can potentially remove cataracts from people's eyes more efficiently and with greater precision was presented on October 24, 2009 at the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) annual meeting. The technology, currently undergoing clinical trials outside the USA, was developed by LenSar, a start-up company which is in a head-to-head competition with two other players to be the first to commercialize the technology. LenSar plans to start treating patients if the FDA will consider the results of the remaining trials to be both safe and effective.

LenSar: New Laser Cure For Cataracts

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK, Nov. 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- A new laser therapy that can potentially remove cataracts from people's eyes more efficiently and with greater precision was presented on October 24, 2009 at the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) annual meeting. The technology, currently undergoing clinical trials outside the USA, was developed by LenSar, a start-up company which is in a head-to-head competition with two other players to be the first to commercialize the technology. LenSar plans to start treating patients if the FDA will consider the results of the remaining trials to be both safe and effective.

Scientists Obtain Clearer View Of How Eye Lens Proteins Are Sorted

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

New research reveals how proteins that are critical for the transparency of the eye lens are properly sorted and localized in membrane bilayers. The study, published by Cell Press in the November 3rd issue of Biophysical Journal, analyzes how interactions between lipid and protein molecules can selectively concentrate proteins in certain regions of the cell membrane.

AAO: Femtosecond Lasers Promising For Safer Cataract Surgery

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Femtosecond-pulse lasers similar to those used for LASIK may take over manual incision and phacoemulsification in cataract surgery as well, leading eye surgeons said.

Ring Device, Iris Hooks, Pupil Stretching Can Assist In Cataract Surgery In Eyes With Small Pupils

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Several techniques can be used to perform successful cataract surgery in eyes with small pupils.

Cataract Surgery Helps AMD Patients; Steroid Improves DME; Online Eye Health Forum

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This month's Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (Academy) reports on a national study that finds cataract surgery is likely to benefit patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) at all stages of the disease, on a clinical trial showing that the steroid triamcinolone may be effective in advanced diabetic macular edema (DME) patients when standard treatment fails, and on the public's use of two Academy-sponsored online eye health forums.

Carl Zeiss Meditec Introduces New Ophthalmic Solutions at AAO 2009

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

DUBLIN, CA (October 24, 2009) - AAO Booth #3149 - Carl Zeiss Meditec unveiled its new suite of treatment workflow and data management solutions today at the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) Annual Meeting in San Francisco. These new diagnostic and surgical offerings are designed to work together to improve productivity, workflow and clinical outcomes that are critical in today's healthcare environment.

Biaxial MICS With Rollable Acrylic IOL Appears To Offer Astigmatic Neutrality

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Biaxial microincision cataract surgery with an IOL inserted through a 2-mm temporal incision resulted in an insignificant increase in astigmatism, a study showed.

LensAR Inc. To Present Data From Laser Cataract Surgery Clinical Trial At The Annual Meeting Of The American Academy Of Ophthalmology

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 04:31:00 GMT

LensAR, Inc., a leading developer of next generation laser technology for cataract surgery and other ocular applications, today announced that data from a recently completed clinical trial of the LensAR Laser System will be presented at the upcoming 2009 Joint Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and Pan-American Academy of Ophthalmology (PAAO).

OIS Announces Plans To Launch The OIS EyeScan At AAO 2009

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - October 1, 2009 -- OIS (Ophthalmic Imaging Systems) today announced plans to launch the OIS EyeScan(TM) at the 2009 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. The OIS EyeScan is a multi-modality, portable imaging device that will revolutionize the way that ophthalmologists screen and capture diagnostic images by delivering a new level of flexibility, efficiency, and image quality to the market.

Femtosecond Laser Receives Clearance For Capsulotomies

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

LenSx Lasers Inc. announced that the FDA has granted 510(k) clearance for its femtosecond laser used for anterior capsulotomy during cataract surgery.

Accommodative Stimuli Spur Slight Anterior Movement Of Optic-Shift IOL

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

An optic-shift IOL produced low accommodation associated with pharmacologically induced shift and optically induced shift.

Two Phaco Methods Prove Similarly Unable To Prevent PCO After Cataract Surgery

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Two phacoemulsification methods appeared ineffective in stemming the advance of posterior capsule opacification, a clinical trial showed.

Good Results Seen With Topography-Guided PRK, Corneal Cross-Linking

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Combined topography-guided PRK and corneal cross-linking is safe and effective for myopic astigmatism in eyes with forme fruste keratoconus, according to a presentation at the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons meeting here.

Combined Cataract And Vitreoretinal Surgery

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Combined pars plana vitrectomy and cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure that allows the surgeon to avoid performing a second operation, but adequate treatment is recommended to all patients over 60 years, Gisbert Richard, MD, told delegates of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons.

Erythromycin Ophthalmic Ointment Shortage Prompts FDA To Request Physicians Use Alternative Medications

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A shortage of erythromycin ophthalmic ointment has led the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to ask physicians to treat superficial ocular infections involving the conjunctiva or cornea with other medications until the supply can be increased.

ISTA Pharmaceuticals Announces Preliminary Results Of T-Pred Studies

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 16:04:00 GMT

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. , today announced preliminary results from two recently completed studies on its investigational ophthalmic product, T-Pred(TM) (prednisolone acetate 1.0% and tobramycin 0.3% ophthalmic suspension). The Company is developing T-Pred as a treatment for inflammatory ocular conditions for which a corticosteroid is indicated and where bacterial ocular infection exists, or there is a risk of bacterial infection.

Hoya Surgical Optics Introduces Preloaded IOL Injection System

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hoya Surgical Optics has introduced a preloaded IOL injection system (iSert) in the United States.

Swollen Lids, Pain And Opaque Vitreous Statistically Linked To Postop Endophthalmitis

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Swollen lids, pain and opaque vitreous were strongly associated with confirmed postoperative endophthalmitis, according to a study.

Safety, Efficacy Of Corneal Transplant Procedure Confirmed; An Antibiotic Can Cause Double Vision

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO, CA-Highlights of September's Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (Academy), include a 2009 review by the Academy of the safety and efficacy of a widely used corneal transplant procedure and a warning about an unusual but serious reaction to systemic fluroquinolones, a class of antibiotics used to treat a variety of bacterial infections.

Phaco Increases Diabetic Retinopathy Progression Rate In Diabetic Patients

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Diabetic patients had a higher rate of diabetic retinopathy progression 12 months after phacoemulsification, a study found.

ISTA Pharmaceuticals Announces Positive Preliminary Phase 3 Clinical Results To Support SNDA Filing For Once-Daily Xibrom(TM) 0.09%

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 13:00:00 GMT

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc., today announced positive preliminary Phase 3 results from the Company's Xibrom(TM) (bromfenac ophthalmic solution) 0.09% QD (once-daily) confirmatory clinical study. Xibrom 0.09% QD achieved statistical significance in the study's primary endpoint, the absence of ocular inflammation 15 days following cataract surgery, and the secondary efficacy endpoint, the elimination of ocular pain one day post surgery. During the study, no serious ocular or systemic adverse events occurred, and the safety profile is consistent with ISTA's currently marketed Xibrom twice-daily formulation.

Envision Eyes LLC, Makers Of The Spec-Tac Eye Speculum, Offering Investment Opportunity

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

EnVision Eyes LLC ("EnVision") has successfully designed, developed and launched its Spec-Tac External Eye Speculum Spec-Tac� external eye speculum in the United States and other countries. The Spec-Tac� external eye speculum - being a disposable, single-use, and hands-free external eye speculum - uniquely fills a need in the ophthalmic industry. The product has various uses and applications, such as eye examinations, photography and retinal imaging, retinal injections, foreign body removal, visual field testing, and other applications. It is estimated that the annual volume of these procedures exceeds 17,000,000 in the U.S. alone.

Hoya Surgical Optics Introduces First And Only Preloaded Intraocular Lens Injection System In The United States

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

CHINO HILLS, CALIF., August 13, 2009-Hoya Surgical Optics, Inc., announced today the United States introduction of the iSertT Preloaded Intraocular Lens (IOL) Injection System. The iSert'sT revolutionary technology provides unparalleled predictability and safety for intraocular lens insertion. With the IOL already loaded and ready for insertion, the system eliminates the potential for lens damage due to misloading and risk of contamination from endotoxins associated with reusable instruments.

Volk Specialty Lenses Support Pioneer's Making Strides Promotion

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Mentor, Ohio (August 14, 2009) - Volk Optical has developed an exclusive line of pink-ringed lenses to support the philanthropic efforts of ophthalmic products distributor Pioneer International. Pioneer is celebrating its 10th anniversary by giving back and has chosen The American Cancer Society's - Making Strides in Breast Cancer as recipient of the anniversary event. During its "Making Strides" promotion, $30 will be donated to breast cancer research for each Volk specialty lens purchased.

TrueVision Teams With Ophthalmologists To Help Cure World Blindness For Treatable Cataracts

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Santa Barbara (August 12, 2009) - August is Cataract Awareness Month. Cataracts reduce the vision of tens of millions of people around the world. It is especially crippling to the populations for developing countries where it is estimated that over 17.6 million people suffer from severe blindness due to treatable cataracts.

Omeros Corporation Announces Positive Clinical Results Of Phase 1/Phase 2 Trial Of OMS302 For Use During Ophthalmologic Surgery

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Omeros Corporation today announced results from the Phase 1/Phase 2 clinical trial of OMS302, the Company's ophthalmologic PharmacoSurgery(TM) product candidate. OMS302 is a proprietary combination of an anti-inflammatory agent and an agent that causes pupil dilation (mydriasis), each with well-known safety and pharmacologic profiles.

Cataract Surgery Associated With Diabetic Eye Problem

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Phacoemulsification surgery for cataracts in patients with diabetes is associated with higher rates of new or progressing diabetic retinopathy in the following year, according to research published in the August issue of Ophthalmology.

FDA To Resume Review Of STAAR's Implantable Contact Lens

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The FDA will resume scientific review of the STAAR Surgical Co. premarket approval (PMA) application for its toric implantable contact lens ([TICL]; Visian Toric Implantable Collamer Lens) for patients with myopia and astigmatism after removing the "integrity hold" restrictions it put in place in 2007, according to the company. This application is a supplement to one approved by the FDA in 2005.

Combined PK, Posterior Chamber IOL Implantation May Have Some Postop Complications

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Combined penetrating keratoplasty and scleral-sutured posterior chamber IOL implantation can be successful, but it may also have serious complications, a study showed.

Besifloxacin Approved For Use Against Ocular Infections

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new topical ophthalmic antibacterial, besifloxacin ophthalmic suspension 0.6% (Besivance, Bausch & Lomb), administered via sterile ophthalmic drops, treats a broad range of eye pathogens including those that most commonly cause bacterial conjunctivitis.

Heat Shock Proteins Provide Protection Against Cataracts

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The human eye lens consists of a highly concentrated mix of several proteins. Protective proteins prevent these proteins from aggregating and clumping. If this protective function fails, the lens blurs and the patient develops cataracts. Two research groups at the Department of Chemistry of the Technische Universitaet Muenchen (TUM) have succeeded in explaining the molecular architecture of this kind of protective protein. Their findings, which are published online in the current early edition of PNAS (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences), shed new light on the work of these proteins and may be able to help in the development of new treatments.

Bausch & Lomb Surgical Launches The Akreos� AO Micro Incision IOL

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bausch & Lomb Surgical has announced the US launch of its new Akreos� AO Micro Incision Lens (Model MI60L). In the US, the company refers to this lens as the Akreos� MICS(TM) lens. This unique spherical aberration free lens has been specifically developed for 1.8 mm MICS. Its award winning design and glistening free material allows implantation through a 1.8 mm incision, while maintaining the optical quality and stability first established with the parent Akreos AO lens design. Akreos lenses have a history of over ten years since the first implant in Europe and to date there have been more than 3 million Akreos lenses implanted worldwide.

Structure Of Protective Protein In The Eye Lens Revealed

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cancer Treatment Controls Macular Edema Related to Diabetes and to Cataract Surgery

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This month's Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, reports on use of bevacizumab (Avastin), to benefit diabetic patients with macular edema as well as people who develop cystoid macular edema after cataract surgery. Bevacizumab is also used to treat some cancers. Another study describes methods that could make cataract surgery safer for diabetic retinopathy (DR) patients. DR is the major threat to vision in working-age people, a problem that will only intensify if cases triple by 2050 as predicted.

Phakic IOL Helps Treat Myopia, Astigmatism In Eyes With Previous PK

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Posterior chamber phakic IOL implantation treated myopia and astigmatism in patients who underwent previous penetrating keratoplasty, a study showed.

Allergan Inc. (AGN) Receives FDA Approval For ACUVAIL Ophthalmic Solution For The Treatment Of Pain And Inflammation Following Cataract Surgery

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Allergan, Inc. (NYSE: AGN - News) today announced that the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved ACUVAILT (ketorolac tromethamine ophthalmic solution) 0.45%, an advanced, preservative-free formulation of ketorolac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) indicated for the treatment of pain and inflammation following cataract surgery.

'Chop' Technique For Phaco Proves Safe In Previously Vitrectomized Eyes

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Phacoemulsification using the "phaco-chop" technique in previously vitrectomized eyes was found to be safe, a study showed.

Miyoshi Ultimate Vertical Dual Flow Hydrodissection Cannula

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

ASICO introduces the Miyoshi Ultimate Vertical Dual Flow Hydrodissection Cannula for Micro Coaxial Cataract Surgery.

Ophthalmic Consultants of Long Island (OCLI), the Largest and One of the Most Prestigious Multi-Specialty Ophthalmology Practices on Long Island, Participates in Mission Cataract USA

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Throughout August and September, doctors in the Ophthalmic Consultants of Long Island (OCLI) practice will perform FREE surgery at the Island Eye Surgicenter to give the gift of sight to those who have lost some or all of their vision because of cataracts. OCLI, a participant in the Mission Cataract USA program, is offering this outpatient surgical procedure to residents of Nassau, Suffolk and Queens who are not covered by medical insurance and who are unable to pay for the surgery themselves. For more information, please visit www.ocli.net.

New Evidence That Popular Dietary Supplement May Help Prevent, Treat Cataracts

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Researchers are reporting evidence from tissue culture experiments that the popular dietary supplement carnosine may help to prevent and treat cataracts, a clouding of the lens of the eye that is a leading cause of vision loss worldwide. The study is scheduled for the July 28 edition of ACS' Biochemistry, a weekly journal.

Certain Type Of Implanted Lenses May Be A Treatment Option For Some Patients With Nearsightedness

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Implantable lenses made of a collagen-like substance appear to provide stable correction of moderate to high nearsightedness (myopia) over four years of follow-up, according to a report in the July issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

IOP Control Index Shows Promise As A Prognostic Tool For Phaco, Phaco-Trabeculectomy Procedures

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

An "IOP control index" was significantly associated with postoperative IOP control after both phacoemulsification and a combined phaco-trabeculectomy procedure for chronic angle-closure glaucoma patients with coexisting cataract.

Bausch & Lomb Receives Approval Of Crystalens HD In Quarter Diopter Steps

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bausch & Lomb announced today that it has received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market the Crystalens HD(TM) in quarter diopter steps in the United States. The Crystalens accommodating intraocular lens (IOL) was first approved by the FDA in November 2003. Bausch & Lomb made the announcement today in conjunction with the celebration of the Crystalens HD first anniversary of approval. The Crystalens HD is the fourth generation of the only FDA approved accommodating lens and is the number one selling presbyopic channel lens in the U.S.

Now At Last - The Preloaded EYEJETT Capsular Tension Ring

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Marshfield Hills, MA - The long awaited preloaded Capsular Tension Ring from Morcher identified as the EYEJET CTR has been approved for marketing in the United States by the FDA. Simple and easy to operate, it is a single use system for implanting the Type 14 capsular tension rings (CTR).

STAAR Surgical Receives Japanese Clearance For The KS-Ni Preloaded IOL Injector System

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

STAAR Surgical Company, a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of minimally invasive ophthalmic products, today announced the approval of the KS-Ni Preloaded Silicone Intraocular Lens (IOL) injector system by Japanese regulatory authorities.

Advisory: If You Have Taken Flomax�, Tell Your Ophthalmologist BEFORE Having Cataract Surgery

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Fairfax, VA and San Francisco- The results of a new study reinforce an advisory that patients taking Flomax� (Tamsulosin) to treat prostate enlargement and urinary problems should inform their ophthalmologist about their use of this drug before undergoing eye surgery.

Rotation Phaco Techniques Most Effective For Soft To Medium Nuclear Density

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Non-chopping rotation and axial rotation phacoemulsification proved useful in removing lens nuclei of soft to medium density, while quick chopping techniques more effectively removed hard nuclei.

STAAR Surgical Receives FDA Clearance For The Epiphany(TM) Injector System

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

STAAR Surgical Company, a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of minimally invasive ophthalmic products, today announced that the FDA has granted 510(k) clearance for its Epiphany Injector System for use with the Affinity(TM) Collamer(R) Three-Piece NTIOL and the Elastimide(TM) Silicone NTIOL. Introduction of the Epiphany will usher in a new era of insertion devices for the company and pave the way for the future introduction of a preloaded injector for the U.S. market.

AAO, ASCRS Update Advisory Urging Patients To Disclose Tamsulosin Use

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery have issued a joint statement reinforcing their 2006 advisory urging patients who take tamsulosin for prostate enlargement or urinary retention problems to alert their ophthalmologist before undergoing cataract surgery.

Keep An Eye On UV Safety

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As you rub sunscreen on to protect your skin this summer, don't forget to protect your eyes as well. Summertime means more time spent outdoors, and studies show that exposure to bright sunlight may increase the risk of developing cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and growths on the eye, including cancer.

Surgical Resident's Dominant Hand May Influence Outcomes Of Cataract Extraction

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Left-handed residents may be more likely to perform successful cataract surgery without complications than right-handed residents.

STAAR Surgical Receives CE Mark Approval For KS-X Preloaded Hydrophobic Acrylic Lens Injector System

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

STAAR Surgical Company, a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of minimally invasive ophthalmic products, today announced that it has received CE Mark approval for its KS-X Preloaded Hydrophobic Acrylic Injector for use in minimally invasive cataract surgical procedures. The CE Mark allows STAAR Surgical to market this foldable intraocular (IOL) KS-X lens delivery system in the European Union as well as other countries that recognize the CE Mark. It also signifies that STAAR's preloaded acrylic lens delivery system complies with applicable safety and quality standards.

Ahmed Capsular Tension Segments Now Available In U.S.

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Marshfield Hills, MA - The US Food and Drug Administration has just recently approved the Ahmed Capsular Tension Segments (CTS) for marketing in the United States. They will be available from FCI Ophthalmics, Inc., the exclusive US importer and distributor.

FDA Approves New Henderson Capsular Tension Ring

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Marshfield Hills, MA - FCI Ophthalmics, Inc. is pleased to announce that the unique Henderson Capsular Tension Ring was recently approved for marketing in the United States by the US Food and Drug Administration.

Foldable Iris-Fixated Phakic IOL Proves Effective, Stable For Myopic Correction

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A foldable iris-fixated phakic IOL was effective and predictable in correcting myopia in phakic eyes, according to 2-year results of a multicenter trial.

Five-Step Process May Help With Toric Lens Alignment

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Using a practiced five-step process may help align toric lenses within the capsular bag, a surgeon said here.

Surgeon Shares Pearls For Vitrectomy In Complicated Cataract Cases

Thu, 28 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Anterior vitrectomy is an important skill for cataract surgeons, who might find it necessary to remove the vitreous from the anterior segment in complicated cataract cases.

IOL With +3 D Add Has Better Intermediate Vision Results Compared With Previous Model

Wed, 27 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While maintaining the near and distance vision of the previous +4 D model, the +3 D add power Alcon AcrySof ReSTOR lens provides improved intermediate vision, according to a prospective, randomized 6-month study presented here.

Lecturer Foresees A New Way Of Performing Cataract Surgery, Restoring Accommodation

Tue, 26 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The job of ophthalmologists will not be finished until a safe and effective true accommodating IOL is found, a surgeon said here.

Study Links Recent Tamsulosin Use And Complications After Cataract Surgery

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Recent use of tamsulosin to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia in older men was significantly linked with increased risk of serious complications after cataract surgery, while other alpha-blockers were not linked with increased risk, according to a study.

New Fluoroquinolone Found Safe And Well-Tolerated In Early Trials

Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Besifloxacin ophthalmic solution 0.6% has been found safe and well-tolerated in six clinical trials, according to a poster presentation here.

Corneal Measurements Not Affected By Long-Term Soft Contact Lens Wear

Wed, 06 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Use of soft contact lenses for up to 32 years does not appear to have a significant impact on key corneal measurements, a study found.

Cataract Surgery Does Not Pose Risk In Patients Receiving Anti-VEGF Therapies For Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Presented At ARVO

Tue, 05 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cataract surgery among patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) who are being treated with either bevacizumab or ranibizumab does not lead to an increase in the rate of progression from the dry to the wet form of the disease, according to a large retrospective trial presented here on May 3 at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) 2009 Annual Meeting.

First Oral Uveitis Drug Reduces Both Inflammation And Recurrence In Potentially Blinding Eye Disease

Tue, 05 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Uveitis, or inflammation within the eye, is a group of diseases responsible for years of visual loss roughly comparable to that caused by diabetes.

ARVO, AOS: Large Study Of Lacrisert� Dry Eye Insert

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Lawrenceville, NJ - May 4, 2009 - Aton Pharma, Inc. announced today that results from a large (n = 520) multi-center patient registry study of its Lacrisert� ophthalmic insert will be presented this week during the 2009 Annual Meeting of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO), May 3-7, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and later in the month at the 145th Annual Meeting of the American Ophthalmological Society (AOS), May 14 -17, Half Moon Bay, CA. Lacrisert (hydroxypropyl cellulose ophthalmic insert) is a preservative-free, once-daily*, sustained release prescription insert indicated for moderate to severe dry eye, that helps to retain moisture, stabilize the tear film, and lubricate the eye.

Sirion Therapeutics Announces Clinical Data Presentations At The 2009 Association For Research In Vision And Ophthalmology (ARVO) Annual Meeting

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

TAMPA, FLA, April 30, 2009 - Sirion Therapeutics, Inc. announced today that eight presentations related to the Company's products, pipeline and research will be presented at the 2009 annual meeting of The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

Cataract Surgery Results Improved By New Lens

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most effective surgeries performed in the United States. According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 95 percent of all cataract surgeries result in improved vision.

MRI Biometry More Accurately Measures Axial Length In Silicone Oil-Filled Highly Myopic Eyes

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Eyes filled with silicone oil had more accurate axial length measurement results with MRI biometry than with A-scan echography when axial lengths measured 26 mm or more, a study found.

Hundreds Of Ophthalmologists Meet With Congressional Leaders As Health Care Debate Begins

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

More than 300 ophthalmologists met with members of Congress in Washington, D.C., April 22-23 as legislators prepare what may be the most significant health care legislation in over a decade. The office visits took place during the American Academy of Ophthalmology's annual Congressional Advocacy Day to discuss health care issues.

Type Of Vitamin B1 Could Treat Common Cause Of Blindness

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston researchers have discovered that a form of vitamin B1 could become a new and effective treatment for one of the world's leading causes of blindness.

Optronics� Introduces Their New Revolutionary Microcast� HD StudioT, A 1080p High-Definition Microscope Camera System With Built In HD Image Capture And MPEG-4 Progressive Scan Video Recording Without A Computer

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

SANTA BARBARA, CA - Optronics�, a manufacturer of innovative medical grade camera systems for microscopy, announces the introduction of Microcast� HD StudioT, a revolutionary true high-definition 1080p digital microscope camera system with built in 1920x1080p image capture and progressive scan MPEG-4 video recording.

Chinese Ministry Of Health Adopts American Academy Of Ophthalmology Preferred Practice Patterns As National Standard

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) today announced that the Chinese Ministry of Health has endorsed the AAO's Preferred Practice PatternsT as the national standard for ophthalmic practice and training in China. The decision by the Ministry is the first time China has mandated standards of patient care and professional training for any medical specialty.

IOL Calculations In Extreme Eyes Require Meticulous Attention

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

To achieve the goal of refractive cataract surgery, we need to be able to deliver a consistent and predictable result with our lens calculations. The primary factors in lens calculation accuracy are often thought to be primarily due to biometry issues: If the axial length and keratometry values are accurately measured, then we should be able to calculate the best power IOL. This may work well in average eyes that exhibit average healing, but what about extreme eyes?

AT Ophthalmic To Market MANI's New Silicone-Coated Knives In US

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Palo Alto, CA (April 3, 2009) - AT Ophthalmic, Inc. announced today the US market introduction of MANI's new silicone-coated ophthalmic knives at 2009 American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery held in San Francisco on April 3 to 8.

ASCRS Paper Session 3-M: INTRAOCULAR SURGERY Cataract Complications

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Toxic Anterior Segment Syndrome: Common Offenders C. M. Cutler Peck; J. W. Brubaker; H. Edelhauser; N. Mamalis
Causes found in survey in 2007-2008
40 site visits
#1 = inadequate flushing of phaco and I/A handpieces. Rec is 120 cc of fluid per port. Should be done immediately after surgery. Need to use deionized water for the final flush

Use of enzymatic cleaners. Shouldn't be necessary if flushing done properly.
Use of ultrasonic baths (can harbor Gram neg bacteria, then can produce endotoxins)
Use of antibiotics in BSS or intracamaral injection -- pH <6.5 or >8.5 bad
BAK or other preservative in BSS (e.g. preserved epinephrine)
Re-use of disposable sleeves, cannulas, etc.

Capsular Tension Rings Enhance Performance Of Multifocal IOLs In Study

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Capsular tension rings enhance the optical performance of multifocal IOLs by ensuring centration of the lens and reducing irregularities in the posterior capsule such a folds and wrinkles, said Tobias Neuhann, MD, director, AaM Augenklinik am Marienplatz, Munich, Germany.

Fibrin Glue For Corneal Closure Faster Than Sutures In OR, Says Physician

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Fibrin glue may be a better choice than sutures for patients who undergo primary pterygium surgery with conjunctival autografts, according to Luciano P. Bellini, MD, of the Department of Ophthalmology, Irmandade da Santa Casa de Miseric�rdia, Porto Alegre, Brazil.

Scheimpflug Device, Ultrasound Pachymetry Both Repeatable For CCT Measurements

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Both ultrasound pachymetry and a proprietary Scheimpflug imaging device (Galilei Dual Scheimpflug Analyzer, Ziemer Ophthalmic Systems) produced excellent repeatability of central corneal thickness (CCT) measurements, and the repeatability was strong for both "virgin" and post-refractive eyes, according to Mitchell P. Weikert, MD, MS, assistant professor of ophthalmology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston.

ASCRS 2009 Notes: Retina, CME, AMD, And Surgery

Sun, 05 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Immediate Postoperative Intraocular Pressure Adjustment and Cystoid Macular Edema After Uneventful Cataract Surgery

Postoperative Macular Thickness and Cystoid Macular Edema in Correlation with Light Exposure During Standard Phacoemulsification

Au Naturel ILM Peel Macular Hole Surgery and Relationship to Cataract Surgery and Cystoid Macular Edema

Efficacy of Vitreous Injection of Bevacizumab for Pseudophakic CME After Cataract Surgery

Last and Lost Frontier: Intraocular Optical Correction of AMD

Wavy Artifacts in Line Scanning Image of Optical Coherence Tomography with Multifocal Diffractive IOL

Combined Vitrectomy and Phacoemulsification with 7.0 mm Hybrid Acrylic Foldable IOL Implantation in Diabetic Retinopathy

Three Experts Weigh In With Advice For The President On Health-Care Reform

Sat, 04 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

San Francisco-What advice would you give to President Obama to help navigate health-care reform? Three people well acquainted with the challenges that the president will face answered that question here at Glaucoma Day. William L. Rich, III, MD, FACS, medical director of health policy, American Academy of Ophthalmology, said the best thing for President Obama to do is ignore what happened during the Clinton Administration, when health-care reform was addressed using an insular, academic approach.

New OCT Applications From Carl Zeiss Meditec Support Full Spectrum Of Cataract, Refractive, Glaucoma And Retina Procedures

Sat, 04 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

DUBLIN, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Advanced new optical coherence tomography (OCT) applications will be showcased this week at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) meeting in San Francisco by Carl Zeiss Meditec, a leader in complete ophthalmic systems, including IOLs and disposables. The New Technology area of booth 1926 will highlight the new suite of OCT innovations along with a first-ever cinematic showing of high-definition images that have been created using 3D rendering techniques by Dr. Carl Glittenberg of Austria.

I-Therapeutix Announces First Commercial Use Of I-ZIP� Adherent Ocular Bandage For Clear Corneal Cataract Incisions

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I-Therapeutix, Inc. announced today that Mr. Richard Packard and Dr. Daniel Calladine from the Prince Charles Eye Unit, King Edward VII Hospital, Windsor, UK, performed the first ophthalmic surgeries in Europe with the company's CE Mark approved I-ZIP(R) Adherent Ocular Bandage. All phacoemulsification cataract surgeries were performed under topical anesthesia by Mr. Packard. Patients received a foldable IOL with wound-assisted implantation through a 2.2 mm clear corneal incision. No stromal hydration or sutures were used prior to application of the I-ZIP Bandage.

MICS Induces Fewer Corneal Changes Than SICS

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Coaxial microincision cataract surgery induced less corneal astigmatism, corneal flattening and corneal surface irregularity than coaxial small-incision cataract surgery.

World's First Wireless Digital Indirect Ophthalmoscope From Keeler

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Broomall, Pennsylvania (March 19, 2009) - The new Digital VantagePlus LED indirect ophthalmoscope from Keeler is the world's first wireless indirect ophthalmoscope able to produce digital images. The instrument delivers true digital imaging, capturing video and sharp still pictures, with the convenience and mobility of wireless technology.

Sex, Age, Capsular Rupture Leading Risk Factors For Acute Endophthalmitis After Cataract Surgery

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While the overall rates of suspected acute endophthalmitis after cataract surgery were found to be low, the infection rate was significantly higher in specific patient groups, a large population-based study found.

HyperBranch Medical Technology, Inc. Licenses OcuSeal Liquid Ocular Bandage To BD

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

DURHAM, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--HyperBranch Medical Technology, Inc., announced today the licensing of the Company’s OcuSeal Liquid Ocular Bandage to BD. OcuSeal is a fully synthetic ocular bandage designed as a temporary protective barrier to provide comfort for post-surgical, post-traumatic, and non-traumatic ocular conditions.

Bausch & Lomb Launches Multi-Tiered U.S. Consumer Education Initiative To Raise Awareness Of Presbyopia

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bausch & Lomb, manufacturer of the #1 multifocal lens design, has launched its largest integrated marketing initiative with the goal of raising U.S. awareness of presbyopia and multifocal contact lenses. Presbyopia is a naturally occurring vision condition that begins to affect people in their 40s. As the eyes' internal lenses become less flexible and lose elasticity, the eyes are less able to adjust quickly to rapid changes in focus from distance to near objects, causing blurred vision, most notable at reading distances.

Sirion Therapeutics Supplemental New Drug Application For Durezol� To Treat Uveitis Is Accepted For Review By The FDA

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Sirion Therapeutics, Inc. announced today that its supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) seeking market approval of Durezol�.

SIR: Extra Eye Protection A Must For Interventional Radiologists

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cataracts could prematurely end the career of interventional radiologists who simply adhere to radiation exposure guidelines without taking additional protective steps, researchers said here.

CME Dinner Symposium Held During The ASCRS 2009 Annual Meeting: "Addressing Antimicrobial Resistance With New Fluoroquinolones"

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

South San Francisco, CA - MARCH 5, 2009 - Acuity Medical Education today announced they are jointly sponsoring a CME Dinner Symposium at the 2009 ASCRS/ASOA Symposium & Congress with Medical Education Resources, Inc. The continuing medical education symposium is supported through an unrestricted education grant from Bausch & Lomb. The program is aimed at the Comprehensive Ophthalmologist and focuses on educating physicians on the increasing antimicrobial resistance to current fluoroquinolones and the studies being done now to demonstrate the clinical efficacy of new fluoroquinolone analogs.

Multiple Trabecular Microstents Combined With Phaco Reduce IOP

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Implantation of two or three trabecular microstents in combination with phacoemulsification safely diminished IOP, according to a study presented here.

USAID Blindness Program Assists One Million Children In 23 Countries

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the past year, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Child Blindness Program assisted over one million people through eye health education, comprehensive vision screening, refractive error correction, sight-restoring surgery, and education for blind children.

Pfizer Inc. (PFE) (JOBS) , Bausch & Lomb (BOL) Team Up To Promote Eye Drugs

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pfizer Inc and Bausch & Lomb announced today a co-promotion agreement involving both companies' prescription ophthalmic pharmaceuticals in the United States. The agreement will allow both companies to greatly increase the level of eye care industry support for these important medications that treat serious ophthalmic conditions.

Bausch & Lomb, Santen Strike Licensing Agreement For IOL Development

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bausch & Lomb, the global eye health company, has entered into a licensing agreement with Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., for the development of certain intraocular lens (IOL) materials.

Ophthalmology March Research Highlights

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Studies published in the March issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, provide new warnings on risks for melanoma of the eye as well as reassurance on infection risks following cataract surgery.

New AcrySof� IQ Toric IOL Approved For U.S. Patients With Cataracts And Astigmatism

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

HUENENBERG, Switzerland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Alcon, Inc. (NYSE: ACL - News), the world's leader in eye care and cataract surgery announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved its aspheric AcrySof� IQ Toric intraocular lens (IOL). The new lens offers an enhanced aspheric optic that improves image quality and increases contrast sensitivity in cataract surgery patients with astigmatism.

Glaucoma Device Implanted Under Scleral Flap Has Good Results With Or Without Cataract Surgery

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Implanting an Ex-PRESS miniature glaucoma device under a scleral flap resulted in surgical success in more than 90% of patients at 3 years in a single implantation or combined phacoemulsification procedure.

Abbott Completes Acquisition Of Advanced Medical Optics

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Abbott today announced that it has completed its acquisition of Advanced Medical Optics (AMO). AMO is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Abbott and has been renamed Abbott Medical Optics Inc.

Ophthalmologists With AAO's New Tools Can Avoid Wrong-Site Surgery

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Two new tools are being offered by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) to help members avoid wrong site or wrong IOL errors. Included with the tools is a new protocol with a simple checklist to follow prior to and on the day of surgery as well as a new continuing medical education (CME) course.

Large Biometry Prediction Errors Seen In High Axial Myopes After Phaco

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Phacoemulsification in eyes with high axial myopia did not appear to increase the risk of surgical complications, but large biometry prediction errors were observed.

Ophthalmic Imaging Systems Comments On Potential Impact Of U.S. Government's Stimulus Package On Electronic Health Records Market

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ophthalmic Imaging Systems (OIS) (OTCBB: OISI - News) and Abraxas Medical Solutions, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of OIS and a provider of state of the art Electronic Health Record (EHR) solution, commented on a portion of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the U.S. Government's stimulus package (the "Stimulus Package"), that pertains to healthcare IT.

Abbott Receives European Commission Clearance On Acquisition Of Advanced Medical Optics

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Abbott today announced that it has received merger control clearance from the European Commission for its acquisition of Advanced Medical Optics (AMO) through a cash tender offer for the outstanding shares of common stock of AMO. The European Commission approved the transaction without conditions.

Topical Cyclosporine Improves Quality Of Life, Is Cost-Effective For Dry Eye Patients

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Topical cyclosporine emulsion 0.05% improved quality of life and proved cost-effective for patients with moderate to severe dry eye syndrome that did not respond to conventional therapy.

New Options Available For Ophthalmologists To Avoid Wrong Site Surgery

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Ophthalmology is offering ophthalmologists two new tools to help members avoid wrong site or wrong IOL errors. The tools include a new protocol with a simple checklist to follow prior to and the day of surgery as well as a new CME course.

ORBIS And FedEx Launch Sight-Saving Programs To Combat Avoidable Blindness In Latin America & The Caribbean

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

ORBIS International and FedEx are delivering four weeks of eye health training to local ophthalmic communities in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and Trujillo, Peru between February 9 - March 6, 2009.

Sirion Therapeutics Partners With Advanced Vision Research (TheraTears�) To Promote Products For Retinal And Meibomian Gland Health

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Sirion Therapeutics, Inc., a privately held ophthalmic-focused biopharmaceutical company, today announced that it has entered into an agreement with Advanced Vision Research, Inc. (AVR) of Woburn, MA, to co-promote, within the U.S., AVR's new MacuTrition(R) oral retinal nutritional supplement and its recently launched NutriDox Convenience Kit for meibomian gland therapy.

Combination Of Cataract Surgery, Vitrectomy Requires Different Criteria In IOL Power Selection

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Vitrectomy performed at the same time as cataract surgery often induces a myopic shift that needs to be taken into account when choosing the IOL to be implanted, according to a study.

Cataract Surgery And Macular Degeneration; Beauty In The Eye Of The Beholder; Are Genes Or Environmental Factors To Blame For Poorer Vision As We Age?

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Does cataract surgery increase the risk of vision loss in people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD)? How do people read faces to judge age or fatigue? Which has a larger impact on the "normal" decline of visual function as we age, genetic or environmental factors? These questions are explored in the February issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Vigorous Exercise May Help Prevent Vision Loss

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

There's another reason to dust off those running shoes. Vigorous exercise may help prevent vision loss, according to a pair of studies from the U.S. Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. The studies tracked approximately 41,000 runners for more than seven years, and found that running reduced the risk of both cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

Cutting Tool For Cataract Surgery

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new circular cutting tool will make cataract surgery an easier process for doctors, according to its developers. The device from Warwickshire-based Warwick Design uses a circular superelastic nickel-titanium blade to cut an opening in the anterior of the capsule, a cellophane-like part of the eye that retains the failing lens. Current blades require surgeons to tear a circular hole, a skilled procedure that can lead to serious consequences if performed incorrectly.

Novartis/Nestle May See Cycle Of Negotiations Over Alcon Option Rights In 4Q 2009

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Negotiations between Novartis (NYSE:NVS) and Nestle (VTX:NESN) over their option rights - allowing Novartis to acquire the remaining stake Nestle owns in Alcon (NYSE:ACL) - may see another cycle of negotiations in the fourth quarter, two industry attorneys speculated.

Immunosuppressant Medication May Be Cost-Effective For Dry Eye Syndrome

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A topical eye emulsion consisting of cyclosporine (a medication used to reduce transplant rejections or to treat arthritis and psoriasis) may be a cost-effective treatment for dry eye syndrome that does not respond to other therapies, according to a report in the February issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Cataract Surgery Doesn't Worsen AMD

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cataract surgery doesn't hasten vision loss in people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Self-Report Questionnaire May Aid in Screening for Depression in Patients with Low Vision

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A questionnaire based on self-reported symptoms may help clinicians identify patients with warning signs of depression, and the test may be especially useful for patients with low vision because they are at high risk of poor mental health status.

February Ophthalmology Research Highlights

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO, CA--- Does cataract surgery increase the risk of vision loss in people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD)? How do people read faces to judge age or fatigue? Which has a larger impact on the "normal" decline of visual function as we age, genetic or environmental factors? These questions are explored in the February issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Eye-Care Community Collaborates On HIT Standard Certification Effort

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - The American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery hosted a summit that included the American Optometric Association and others Jan. 16 to unify the eye-care community around a new joint vision health information technology (HIT) agenda to develop certification standards. HIT certification is a way for physicians and providers to feel more secure about their electronic health record (EHR) system purchase, because there are standards and test processes in place for functionality and security.

Antek HealthWare Releases DAQoffice for Concierge Medicine Practices

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Baltimore, MD - January 26, 2009 - Antek HealthWare, LLC, developer of DAQbilling� Practice Management Software is pleased to announce the launch of DAQoffice, a Practice Management and Billing solution for physicians who are running Concierge Medical Practices.

Edward J. Holland, MD Named EyeWorld Cornea Editor

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Reston, VA - The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery today announced the appointment of Edward J. Holland, MD as EyeWorld Cornea Section Editor.

ISTA Pharmaceuticals Announces Positive Results For Phase IIb Study Of Ecabet Sodium

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: ISTA), today announced positive results from the Company's Phase IIb clinical study of ecabet sodium, which is being developed as a treatment for dry eye disease. Patients treated with ecabet sodium achieved a strong positive trend in the objective sign of Tear Film Break-Up Time (TFBUT) and a positive trend in the objective sign of quantity of tears produced (Schirmer Test).

Small-Incision Cataract Surgery Innovator Receives International Award

Tue, 20 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ghanta Madhavi, MD, recipient of the Hawaiian Eye Foundation's International Award, developed a 2.5-minute temporal manual small-incision cataract surgery technique to reduce the backlog of the world's cataract blindness. She presented her technique here and discussed her "utmost priority" to cure childhood blindness.

Advanced Medical Optics Receives FDA Approval For TECNIS� Multifocal Intraocular Lens

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

SANTA ANA, Calif., January 16, 2009 -- Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) [NYSE:EYE], the global leader in advanced refractive technologies for eye care professionals and patients, today announced U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the TECNIS� Multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) for cataract patients.

Children's Vision Bill Introduced In Congress

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Ophthalmology today applauded the introduction of legislation in both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives this week to combat undiagnosed and untreated vision problems in children. The legislation, known as the Vision Care for Kids Act of 2009, passed the House during the last Congress but stalled in the Senate.

NovaBay's NVC-422 Cleared By FDA For Human Clinical Trials In Ophthalmology

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

EMERYVILLE, Calif., Jan 13, 2009 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- NovaBay Pharmaceuticals, Inc., announces the clearance of an Investigational New Drug application (IND) submitted by Alcon to the FDA to permit the clinical development of NovaBay's NVC-422 for infections of the eye. The IND clearance has triggered the immediate payment of the first milestone of $1,000,000 from Alcon to NovaBay.

New Cataract Early Detection Technique: Patients And Astronauts Benefit From NEI-NASA Collaboration

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A compact fiber-optic probe developed for the space program has now proven valuable for patients in the clinic as the first non-invasive early detection device for cataracts, the leading cause of vision loss worldwide.

Light-Scattering Technique May Pinpoint Protein Changes, Early Cataract Risk

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A noninvasive imaging technique detected early protein changes associated with lens opacity and potential cataract in a National Eye Institute-NASA clinical trial.

Abbott Expands Its Growing Medical Device Business With Acquisition Of Advanced Medical Optics (AMO)

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

ABBOTT PARK, Ill., and SANTA ANA, Calif., Jan. 12, 2009 - Abbott (NYSE: ABT) and Advanced Medical Optics (AMO) (NYSE: EYE) announced today a definitive agreement for Abbott to acquire AMO for $22 per share in cash, for a total transaction value of approximately $2.8 billion, inclusive of estimated net debt at the time of closing. Based in Santa Ana, Calif., AMO is a global leader in ophthalmic care, comprised of three segments: cataract surgery, laser vision correction (LASIK), and eye care products.

Refractive Lens Exchange With Diffractive Multifocal IOL Yields Good Contrast Sensitivity

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Patients who underwent refractive lens exchange with a diffractive multifocal IOL had contrast sensitivity comparable with that of preoperative levels under photopic and mesopic lighting conditions.

Tomey USA Launches Its Latest Innovation In Corneal Endothelium Photography - Tomey EM-3000 Specular Microscope Offers A Direct Magnified View Of Cornea Endothelial Cells

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Tomey announces its latest FDA approved device, the EM 3000 specular microscope. Since endothelial cells are important structures in the cornea, their morphology and concentration must be carefully evaluated through a magnified and direct view most effectively done through specular microscopy.

Ophthalmic Emulsion May Safely Clear Postop Inflammation, Reduce Pain

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion administered two to four times daily reduced postoperative inflammation and pain with no serious side effects, according to a study.

From Outer Space To The Eye Clinic: New Cataract Early Detection Technique

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cataract Surgery After Phakic IOL Removal Offers Predictable, Safe Results

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Cataract surgery after explantation of an anterior chamber phakic IOL yielded predictable refractive outcomes and minimal endothelial cell loss.

FDA Announces Class I Recall Of Ophthalmic Surgical Device

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced a Class I recall of lot no. UD30654 of Healon D, an ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD) manufactured by Advanced Medical Optics Inc. (AMO) of Santa Ana, Calif.

Vision Problems Prompt Older Drivers To Put Down The Keys

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Rockville, MD - With 30 million drivers in the US aged 65 and over, we count on older Americans to recognize when they can no longer drive safely and decide that it's time to stay off the road. A new study finds that a decrease in vision function is a key factor in bringing about this decision.

Topcon Introduces New SL-3G Slit Lamp

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

PARAMUS, NJ, December 30, 2008 - Topcon Medical Systems, Inc. (TMS), of Paramus, NJ, is pleased to introduce the new SL-3G Slit Lamp. This innovative instrument combines classic versatility with unsurpassed image clarity and color rendition.

FDA Approves Alcon's AcrySof� IQ ReSTOR� +3.0 D Intraocular Lens

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE: ACL), the world's leader in eye care and cataract surgery announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved its +3.0 diopter add power AcrySof� IQ ReSTOR� IOL. This new lens, which was introduced in many major markets outside the United States earlier this year, is now approved in the U.S. for cataract surgery in patients with presbyopia.

Microincision Cataract Surgery Has Smaller Impact On Corneal Optical Quality Than Small-Incision Surgery

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Microincision cataract surgery proved more effective than small-incision cataract surgery in minimizing postoperative wavefront aberrations.

Akorn, Inc. Announces FDA Approval Of Ciprofloxacin HCl Ophthalmic Solution
USP, 0.3%

Sun, 14 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Akorn, Inc. (NASDAQ: AKRX) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted approval for Akorn's Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) for Ciprofloxacin HCl Ophthalmic Solution USP, 0.3%.

Healon D Ophthalmic Viscosurgical Device: Recall Due To Syringes With Endotoxin Levels Above The Required Limit

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics (AMO), Inc. and FDA notified healthcare professionals of a recall of Healon D Ophthalmic Viscosurgical Device, Lot Number UD30654, 30 mg/mL fill size syringes. Some of the tested OVD syringes had endotoxin levels above the required limit. These higher levels may cause intraocular inflammation and/or Toxic Anterior Segment Syndrome in patients following surgery. Healthcare professionals should stop using and remove from their inventory all units of the affected lot and contact AMO at 1-877-266-4543.

Age-Related Farsightedness May Affect More Than 1 Billion Worldwide

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It is estimated that more than 1 billion individuals worldwide in 2005 had presbyopia, or age-related difficulty in seeing objects nearby, with an estimated 410 million with the condition unable to perform tasks requiring near vision, according to a report in the December issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Net Value Of Multifocal IOL Outweighs That Of Conventional Monofocal IOL

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The net benefit of an apodized, diffractive presbyopia-correcting multifocal IOL exceeded its cost when compared with a conventional monofocal IOL.

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (ISTA) Announces Phase III Results For Once-Daily Topical Xibrom(TM) 0.09%

Sun, 07 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. , an ophthalmic pharmaceutical company, today announced results from the Company's recently completed Phase III clinical program of Xibrom(TM) (0.09% bromfenac sodium ophthalmic solution) QD (once-daily). The program enrolled 282 patients who underwent cataract surgery in two U.S. multi-center, randomized, double-masked, parallel-group, vehicle-controlled studies to evaluate Xibrom 0.09% dosed once daily to vehicle (placebo). The identical trials were performed under a common protocol and designated the East region trial (ER) and the West region trial (WR).

FDA Advisory Committee Recommends Approval Of Bausch & Lomb (BOL) Besifloxacin Anti-Infective Eye Drop

Sun, 07 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Dermatologic and Ophthalmic Drugs Advisory Committee today voted unanimously to recommend approval of Bausch & Lomb's besifloxacin ophthalmic suspension, 0.6%, for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis. The company has developed this broad-spectrum, anti-infective drop specifically for ophthalmic use.

16 Blinded After Cataract Surgery

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

JAIPUR: At least 16 people lost their sight and 27 others suffered eye-related complication in Sriganganagar district of Rajasthan following cataract operations during a free eye camp. The health department had organised the camp at Suratgarh town in Sriganganagar district on Wednesday.

Phacoemulsification Reduces IOP In Eyes With Pseudoexfoliation

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Phacoemulsification with posterior chamber IOL implantation reduced IOP and slowed the progression of glaucoma in eyes with pseudoexfoliation. The retrospective analysis included 1,122 eyes with pseudoexfoliation that underwent phacoemulsification with IOL insertion; 882 eyes did not have glaucoma and 240 eyes had glaucoma.

Cataract Patients To See Reduced Wait Times

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Patients facing long waits for cataract removals will have a faster route to surgery starting next week, when an experimental program is rolled out across Eastern Ontario, which continues to have some of the longest delays in the province

Age, Corneal Curvature Correlated With Refractive Prediction Error In Children

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Age and mean corneal curvature correlated significantly with mean postoperative refractive prediction error in children undergoing cataract surgery with IOL implantation.

Abu Dhabi To Host World Ophthalmology Congress 2012

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Abu Dhabi city, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is to host the World Ophthalmology Congress (WOC) 2012, which is expected to attract in excess of 12,000 international delegates. WOC is the world's longest running and largest international medical meeting having been established in 1857 with the Abu Dhabi event representing the 33rd congress of its type.

Cyclosporine 0.05% Is More Effective Than Artificial Tears In Relieving And Preventing Dry Eye: Presented At AAO

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Cyclosporine 0.05% appears to alleviate and prevent progression of dry-eye disease, whereas artificial tears led to progression in one-third of these patients, according to findings from a new study presented at the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) annual meeting.

DurezolT In The Treatment Of Uveitis And Ganciclovir In The Treatment Of Herpetic Keratitis

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

TAMPA, FL, November 3, 2008 - Sirion Therapeutics, Inc., a privately held ophthalmic-focused biopharmaceutical company, announced today that studies of two investigational drugs in development for treatment of potentially blinding eye diseases will be presented at upcoming ophthalmology meetings. Durezol was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in June 2008 for the treatment of inflammation and pain associated with ocular surgery.

Optovue Reaches Milestone With Placement Of 1000th RTVue FD-OCT

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

FREMONT, Calif., Nov 13, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Optovue, a pioneer in optical coherence tomography (OCT), announced that the company has now shipped more than 1000 RTVueT systems worldwide.

American Academy Of Ophthalmology Joint Meeting Marked By Strong Turnout And Rich Scientific Program

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Strong turnout and a robust scientific program marked the largest and most comprehensive ophthalmic educational meeting in the world, the American Academy of Ophthalmology's (Academy) 2008 Joint Meeting in conjunction with the European Society of Ophthalmology (SOE), held in Atlanta November 8 to November 11. Preliminary figures for attendance at the meeting were approximately 22,000.

Vision Screening Law For Older Floridians Associated With Lower Fatality Rates In Car Crashes

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A vision screening law targeting Florida drivers age 80 and older appears to be associated with lower death rates from motor vehicle collisions in this age group, despite little evidence of an association between vision and car crashes, according to a report in the November issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Research Hightlights, AAO-SOE Joint Meeting, Nov. 9 Sessions

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The 2008 Joint Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (Academy) and European Society of Ophthalmology (SOE ), the largest and most comprehensive ophthalmic educational meeting in the world, is in session November 8 to 11 at the Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta. Offerings include 277 continuing medical education courses, 179 "Breakfast with the Experts" roundtables, 95 skills transfer courses, and more than 100 hours of scientific presentations, at no charge.

In Certain Cases, DSEK Succeeds When Combined With Glaucoma, Cataract Procedures

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Descemet's stripping endothelial keratoplasty offers several advantages over penetrating keratoplasty, even in cataract and glaucoma cases, a surgeon said here.

Lumenis Targets Ophthalmology With Four New Lasers At AAO Meeting

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Lumenis Ltd. (Yokneam, Israel) has introduced four new ophthalmic lasers and delivery devices at the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) annual meeting, which began Friday (November 7-12, Atlanta, GA). The company is demonstrating two Selecta lasers: a small-footprint unit that enables retinal, cataract and advanced glaucoma therapies, and an anterior-segment laser that combine YAG and SLT technologies; plus a powerful dual-port photocoagulator; and a family of endo photocoagulation laser probes for retinal applications.

AAO-SOE Joint Meeting Research Highlights

Sun, 09 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Long-Term Results Of VisionCare's Implantable Telescope For End-Stage Macular Degeneration Published In The American Journal Of Ophthalmology

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

VisionCare Ophthalmic Technologies, Inc., a developer of advanced visual prosthetic devices for individuals with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), today announced that the American Journal of Ophthalmology (AJO), a premier peer-reviewed medical journal, has published two-year results from the Phase II/III IMT002 trial showing substantial visual acuity improvement in End-Stage AMD patients. The study device, a first-of-kind implantable telescope, has received CE Mark approval in Europe and is currently investigational and under regulatory review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Prestigious Global Ophthalmic Research Award To Be Provided By ARVO Foundation And Merck

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The ARVO Foundation for Eye Research (AFER) and Merck & Co., Inc. are pleased to announce a series of awards that honor young scientists throughout the world for their innovative contributions to ophthalmology research. Each award cycle is worth a total of $70,000 in grants.

November Ophthalmology Journal Research Highlights

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

This month's Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, reports on the conclusions from a population-based study of risk factors related to progression or regression of diabetic retinopathy over a 25 year period in people with Type 1 diabetes, and on the associations found between night vision symptoms and progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in a cohort study within the Complications of Age-related Macular Degeneration Prevention Trial (CAPT), a multi-center randomized clinical trial.

Case Series Finds Increasing Incidence Of In-The-Bag IOL Dislocations

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A retrospective case review revealed that one-quarter of IOL dislocations occurred within the first 24 hours after implantation, but the majority of dislocations occurred after 1 month.

Bascom Palmer Gains Top Spot In Annual Survey

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The economic downturn might have the nation feeling a little unsettled these days, but one thing that remains in focus is the commitment by America's ophthalmology programs to provide quality patient care, train excellent physicians, and dig deep for treatments for vision problems.

New Eye Surgery Shortens Recovery

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A Swansea eye surgeon is using a new technique which improves eyesight and drastically reduces recovery times. About 2,000 patients in the UK will have their sight restored annually through a corneal transplant [DSEK]. It involves removing the central part of the cornea which is replaced with a cornea from a donor.

Sirion Therapeutics Announces Positive Pivotal Uveitis Data For DurezolT

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

TAMPA, Fla., October 14, 2008 - Sirion Therapeutics, Inc., a privately held ophthalmic-focused biopharmaceutical company, announced today preliminary results from a pivotal anterior uveitis trial that compared DurezolT (difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion) 0.05% dosed four times daily (QID) to Pred Forte� (prednisolone acetate ophthalmic suspension) 1%, dosed eight times daily.

Akorn Says FDA Approves Akten Eye Anesthetic

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

LAKE FOREST, Ill. - Eye care products maker Akorn Inc. said Wednesday that federal regulators approved its topical eye anesthetic Akten. Akorn said the Food and Drug Administration approved its Ophthalmic Gel 3.5 percent. It will launch the drug later this month for use in procedures including cataract surgery, refractive surgery and Lasik surgery. The company said Akten is the first new ocular anesthetic to get FDA approval in 40 years.

Floppy Iris Syndrome Manageable With The Right Viscoadaptive OVD

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Although surgeons may find 2.3% sodium hyaluronate difficult to work with, it can stabilize the eye for safer phacoemulsification, surgeon says. Using his expertise in the technical application of ophthalmic viscosurgical devices (OVD) in cataract surgery, Gerd U. Auffarth, MD, found that Healon 5 (2.3% sodium hyaluronate, Advanced Medical Optics) can play an effective role in managing this complication.

Advanced Medical Optics Receives FDA Approval For Healon D� Viscoelastic For Ophthalmic Surgery

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) (NYSE:EYE), the global leader in advanced refractive technologies for eye care professionals and patients, today announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted premarket approval (PMA) of Healon D� viscoelastic, a clear dispersive ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD) for use as a surgical aid in cataract extraction, intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, corneal transplant, and glaucoma filtration surgery.

Impact Of Smoking On Cataract Formation Difficult To Gauge

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Physicians in India have known for years that smoking has become an epidemic in their country, but it is only recently that studies have been conducted to determine whether there is a specific correlation between smoking and ocular complications.

Kowa AP-5000C Automatic Perimeter Has Raised The Gold Standard For Perimetry

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Automatic Perimeter Makes Appearance on Emmy Award Winning Television Series
Los Angeles, CA ‐ Kowa Optimed, innovator of automated perimeters and optical technology, has again raised the standard of automatic perimeters. Kowa automated perimeters have evolved in such a way as to make equipment increasingly user friendly and the AP‐5000C Automatic Perimeter offers the highest level of ease and usability yet.

Kowa Announces New Digital Slit Lamp Imaging System Software

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

New Digital Slit Lamp Software Ideal for Paperless Documentation
Los Angeles, CA- Kowa, the forerunner in advanced ophthalmic diagnostic instrumentation, introduces its new VK Digital Slit Lamp imaging solution. The system adds image capture capability to all Marco, Zeiss, HS 900BQ, Topcon SL-2EF, SL-7EFT and SL-7E slit lamp systems. Kowa's revolutionary software features live video display and video capture replay, as well as still frame capture from both live and recorded video. This offers practitioners the ability to have frame-by-frame image comparison, and provides a historical record of digital images for diagnosis and legal documentation.

Kowa Offers New Functionality And Accessibility To VK2 Users

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ophthalmic Diagnostic Innovator to Introduce New VK-2 Satellite Office System Software
Los Angeles, CA- Kowa has just announced its new VK-2 Satellite Office Software. The system will premiere at the 2008 American Academy of Ophthalmology in Atlanta. Physicians and key representatives of the media will have an opportunity to see actual demonstrations of the product. In today's healthcare environment most large ophthalmic practices have satellite offices linked through VPNs (Virtual Private Networks).

Kowa Announces Newest Enhancements To VK2 Ophthalmic Imaging Solution

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Los Angeles, CA - Kowa is excited to release version 5.030 of the VK2 Digital Imaging Software Solution. VK2 is designed to provide physicians with the ability to access current patient data across multiple workstations, quickly review information with patients and have complete data to make decisions that will enhance patient care and reduce data redundancy. This next-generation diagnostic and data management solution delivers real time data availability, increased patient data protection, system scalability,

Retinal Specialist Urges Cooperation Among Anterior, Posterior Segment Surgeons

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As subspecialty encroachment becomes a more contentious issue between anterior and posterior segment surgeons, a retinal specialist here urged greater cooperation between the two groups.

Advanced Medical Optics Receives FDA Approval For Healon D(R) Viscoelastic For Ophthalmic Surgery

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) (NYSE:EYE), the global leader in advanced refractive technologies for eye care professionals and patients, today announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted premarket approval (PMA) of Healon D(R) viscoelastic, a clear dispersive ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD) for use as a surgical aid in cataract extraction, intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, corneal transplant, and glaucoma filtration surgery.

Sirion Therapeutics Launches Durezol For Postoperative Ocular Inflammation And Pain

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Sirion Therapeutics, Inc., a privately held ophthalmic-focused biopharmaceutical company, announced today that DurezolT (difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion) 0.05% is now commercially available. Durezol, which was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in June 2008, is a topical ophthalmic corticosteroid indicated for the treatment of inflammation and pain associated with ocular surgery.

Research Highlights Of The October 2008 Issue Of Ophthalmology

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

This month's Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, includes reports on the first large-scale visual acuity assessment of preschool children, the Baltimore Pediatric Eye Disease Study. Surprisingly, researchers found that one commonly-used vision test was so inaccurate that its usefulness is questionable

Researchers Report Good 3-Year Results For Multifocal Diffractive IOL

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Implanting a multifocal apodized diffractive IOL can offer cataract surgery patients improved long-term distance and near visual acuity with minimal visual disturbances, reduced spectacle dependence and high patient satisfaction, a prospective study found.

FDA Orders Two Unapproved Drugs Off The Market

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON (Reuters) Sept 23 - U.S. health officials warned companies on Tuesday to stop selling unapproved versions of an eye-surgery solution and a prescription wound cream that have been linked to serious health problems. The products are ophthalmic balanced salt solutions (BSS) used to irrigate the eye during cataract and other surgeries, and skin ointments made with the ingredient papain. Baxter Healthcare Inc and Hospira are among the makers of unapproved versions of the eye solution, Food and Drug Administration officials said.

Managing Tear Film Dysfunctions Crucial During Cataract Surgery Process

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Quality of vision starts with a healthy ocular surface because "the tear film is the most important refractive surface of the eye," Marguerite B. McDonald, MD, said at the annual meeting of OSN and the Italian Society of Ophthalmology.

Programs Tackle High Rate Of Blindness Among Women

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

They are mothers, daughters and grandmothers, and they share one health factor in common: Around the world, two out of every three people who are blind from preventable causes are women.

Alcon Launches New Generation ReSTOR

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon has launched the +3.0 Add Power AcrySof ReSTOR aspheric intraocular lens (IOL) with natural chromophore. The lens completed CE mark approval in the third quarter of 2007 and will be available throughout the EU beginning next week; it is currently undergoing review by the FDA for marketing in the US, and it is hoped that approval will be gained by early 2009.

A New Angle On Small Incision

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Dr Robert H. Osher, MD, demonstrated a new range of micro scissors and forceps showcased for the first time in Europe by Geuder. The line of modular instruments for small incision surgeries has been designed in collaboration with Dr Osher. The series of seven capsule forceps and five capsule scissors provide access to a variety of meridia inside the eye, with tips angled from straight through 45 to 90 degrees, horizontal and vertical.

Researchers Link Quality Of Life, Cognitive Impairment And Depressive Mental Status In Patients Undergoing Cataract Surgery

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Cognitive impairment and depressive mental status may significantly improve in accordance with improvement in vision-related quality of life after cataract surgery, a prospective study found.

Toric Posterior Chamber Phakic Lens Is Safe And Effective At One Year

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

According to Alaa El Danasoury and colleagues, Toric ICL (TICL; STAAR Surgical) implantation is safe, effective and predictable in its correction of compound myopic astigmatism.

B&L Launches New Stable Tubing System

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bausch & Lomb has introduced a stable chamber tubing system, as a part of the new micro incision vacuum pack, to its Millennium Micro Incision Cataract Surgery (MICS) platform.

Monofocal, Multifocal Or Accommodative IOL: Which Is Best?

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Among the different IOL options for presbyopia, monofocals are probably by far the most practically used ones said Thomas Neuhann. He added that competing options must be able to beat an already high level of success and patient satisfaction.

Pressure Instability Could Explain Pumping Phenomena In Cataract Surgery

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Instability in the pressure line could explain the pumping phenomena sometimes reported during cataract surgery, according to Carlos Verges, Jorge Cazal and Cosme Lavin of the Department of Ophthalmology, Institut Universitari Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain.

Add-On IOL Technology Enhances Results Of Previous Cataract Surgery Procedures

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Preliminary experience with Human Optics' Add-On IOL system suggest that this new method of correcting postoperative pseudophakic ametropia is promising, a surgeon said here.

Extra Care Essential For Cataract With Ocular Surface Disease

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Great care and detailed assessment are essential for cataract extractions where another ocular surface disease (OSD) is present, Thomas Neuhann said. Diseases range from dry eye, conjuntivalisation, irregular surfaces and corneal scars.

ReSTOR IOL Good In Post Lasik Cataract Patients

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The use of the ReSTOR intraocular lens (IOL) (Alcon) for patients requiring cataract surgery after prior laser photoablation can result in excellent outcomes if optical results fall near emmetropia, according to Samuel Masket of the USA.

Ocusense Launches Point-Of-Care Osmolarity Tester

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

OcuSense announced the launch of its TearLab Osmolarity System in five European countries here at the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons meeting.

Tecnis Multifocal Safe And Effective In Hyperopia And Presbyopia

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Tecnis multifocal intraocular lens (MIOL) is safe and efficacious for refractive lensectomy in hyperopia and presbyopia, according to Frank Goes, Belgium.

Large Series Of Biometric Data Shows Correlation Between Measurements

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The largest data set of biometry results published to date shows that the correlation of axial length with corneal radii, anterior chamber depth and corneal diameter in typical eyes is not seen in extreme myopia and hyperopia, the study author said.

Leading Investigators Support Alcon's AcrySof IOL

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A number of studies have been conducted and presented during a free paper session, supporting Alcon's research into its investigational AcrySof angle-supported phakic intraocular lens (IOL).

Blue Light-Blocking IOLs Unnecessary

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

There is no current proof that blocking blue wavelengths guarantees retinal protection and, couple this with the fact that blocking this form of light causes an actual loss in visual quality, Alessandro Franchini MD, suggests we concentrate our efforts on blocking UV and violet radiations instead.

Excimer Laser After Cataract Surgery Can Treat Residual Ametropia

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Laser refractive surgery is an effective means of treating residual ametropia after cataract surgery and IOL implantation, a surgeon said here.

Performing Angle Viscodissection With Phaco Surgery Reduces IOP In Glaucoma Patients

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The addition of viscodissection during phacoemulsification can help significantly reduce IOP and medications in narrow-angle and angle-closure glaucoma patients while maintaining good visual outcomes, an 8-year study found.

Promising Results For New "Quality Of Vision" Metric

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It is mandatory to develop precise, reproducible and accurate methodologies to obtain objective measurements of quality of vision, namely night vision, in order to create surgical techniques that will eliminate post-refractive vision disturbances, Joachim Murta said.

New Bag Refilling Procedure Comes Closer To Restoring Accommodation, Lecturer Says

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The implantation of a 0.1-mm accommodative membrane IOL at the opposite sides of the capsular bag enhances results of the bag refilling procedure, preventing silicone leakage and posterior capsular opacification formation, according to a study presented here.

Human Optics Launches Artificial Iris, Add-On IOL

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Human Optics AG launched a new artificial iris and the Add-On IOL here at the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons meeting.

Tosional Better Than Longitudinal Ultrasound In Phaco

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Phacoemulsification procedures consume significantly less fluid using torsional compared with longituinal ultrasound in hard cataract cases, according to Khiun Tjia of the Netherlands.

AMO Unveils New Silicone Tecnis IOL

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics (AMO) announced the launch of the Tecnis CL intraocular lens (IOL) at the XXIV congress of the ESCRS.

Good Pseudoaccommodation With MICS Lens At One Year

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The new MICS lens (Ioltech-Zeiss) is appropriate for the correction of intermediate vision in pseudophakia, according to Carlos Verges, Jorge Cazal and Marc Menezo of the Department of Ophthalmology, Institut Universitari Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain.

Cefuroxime May Protect Vision In Addition To Preventing Endophthalmitis

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Intracameral cefuroxime may not only protect patients against endophthalmitis, but may also protect final visual acuity in the case of infection, one expert said here.

Angle-Supported Phakic IOLs Still A Viable Option, If Precautions Taken

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

BERLIN - Angle-supported phakic IOLs are still a viable means of correcting high refractive error, but precautions must be taken. "Success or failure depends on a careful preoperative evaluation," Georges Baikoff, MD, said at the ESCRS meeting here.

New Topographer Launched

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The ophthalmic equipment manufacturer, bon optic, has unveiled its new topographer to the ophthalmic community. The Eye Top S allows acquisition of axial, normalized and user defined maps and simulated K readings in 25� meridians. Furthermore, the Eye Top S also has a comparison feature. An optional add-on Lensmaster lens module with contact lens database allows a computerized replacement without the need to buy a whole new topography system.

Cross-Linking Stability Remarkable

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Corneal crosslinking showed remarkable stability in a recent rabbit study, Dr Gregor Wollensak told delegates during the session on New Surgical Approaches to Keratoconus. "There are good prospects for the long-term stability of the technique, which is of course underlined by the very promising results from the Dresden five-year study, " he said.

New Cataract Lens From Bausch & Lomb Gets Approval

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bausch & Lomb's technically advanced lens implant for cataract patients has been approved for use in the United States. The FDA has approved the Rochester-based eye care giant's request to market the Akreos AO60 aspheric lens. The implant has been available in Europe and Canada.

Alcon Launches New AcrySof(R) ReSTOR(R) Intraocular Lens For Presbyopia Outside The U.S.

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE: ACL), the world's leader in eye care and intraocular lenses (IOLs), announced the commercial launch outside the U.S. of the new +3.0 Add Power AcrySof(R) ReSTOR(R) Aspheric IOL during the 2008 European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) annual meeting in Berlin, Germany. This lens is another technology advancement to the proven AcrySof(R) ReSTOR(R) Aspheric platform which has been the number one choice for correcting presbyopia in cataract patients since it was introduced last year.

Data Confirm Synvista Therapeutics Haptoglobin Diagnostic Test Kit Success in Rapidly Determining Cardiovascular Risk in Patients with Diabetes

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Synvista Therapeutics, Inc. (Amex: SYI) today announced findings from a study that indicated Synvista's proprietary monoclonal enzyme immunoassay can determine a person's haptoglobin pheno/genotype in less than two hours, and can aid physicians in predicting cardiovascular risk in patients with diabetes. The study was presented today at the 2008 Cardiovascular Biomarkers and Surrogate Endpoints Symposium in Bethesda, Maryland.

Alcon Expands Refractive Surgery Options With The Introduction Of The AcrySof(R) Phakic Intraocular Lens Outside The U.S.

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE: ACL) announced the international release of the new AcrySof(R) Phakic Lens at the 2008 European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) annual meeting in Berlin, Germany. Based on Alcon's proven and trusted AcrySof(R) intraocular lens (IOL) material, Alcon designed the AcrySof(R) Phakic Lens to become the surgeon's preferred solution for patients with moderate to high levels of myopia (nearsightedness).

Eye Surgeon Eyes A Place In Guinness Record Book

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

After conducting 150 eye operations free of cost within 14-and-a-half-hours in 2006, Dr S P Singh, Director of the Regional Institute of Ophthalmology, is eyeing the Guinness Book of World Records. He now plans to conduct 200 free operations in 15 hours in November to register his name in the record book.

New Hope In Sight For Cataract Patients: Coated Lens Set To Reduce Post-Op Infection

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Research presented at the British Pharmaceutical Conference (BPC) in Manchester reveals that coating an artificial lens with antibiotics could significantly reduce the risk of post-operative infection, and even blindness, for cataract patients.

Study Examines Golf-Related Eye Injuries In Children

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Pediatric golf injuries are rare but can be devastating to the eye and vision system, according to a report in the September issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Despite Slow Adoption Rate, Ophthalmologists Report High Satisfaction With EHR Systems

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ophthalmologists have been slow to adopt electronic health record systems into their practices, but those who have begun using these technologies are highly satisfied with their systems, according to a study.

Topcon's EyeRoute� System Now Provides Direct Interface To Oculus Pentacam

Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Topcon Medical Systems, Inc. (TMS), of Paramus, NJ, the leading supplier of ophthalmic diagnostic equipment and image management solutions, is pleased to announce that its EyeRoute� Image Management System now provides a direct interface to the Oculus Pentacam Corneal Topography System.

September Ophthalmology Research Highlights

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Doctors and medical centers across the United States are debating the use of electronic health records (EHR). This month's Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, provides a look at Eye M.D.s' actions and opinions on the issue. Also highlighted this month are two research studies that will help doctors identify patients who are most vulnerable to advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of severe vision loss in the United States and most Western countries.

Early Postop IOP May Predict Success After Combined Cataract, Glaucoma Surgery

Mon, 01 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

An IOP of 9 mm Hg or less on the first postoperative day after combined phacoemulsification and deep sclerectomy may be considered a positive prognostic gauge of success, a retrospective study suggests.

Moxifloxacin Has Higher Aqueous Concentrations When Given Hours Before Cataract Surgery

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Administering topical moxifloxacin 2 hours before cataract surgery can achieve significantly higher aqueous concentrations than initiating dosing 1 day before surgery, a prospective, randomized triple-masked study found. However, both dosing regimens produced considerably higher aqueous concentrations than the known minimum inhibitory concentration for Staphylococcus epidermidis.

ORBIS And Alcon Train China's Next Generation Of Sight-Savers

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

ORBIS International's flagship Flying Eye Hospital has arrived in Harbin, China with its global team of volunteer eye care specialists and global Alliance for Sight partner, Alcon, Inc, the world's leading eye care company. Invited by the Heilongjiang Provincial Government, Heilongjiang Provincial Health Bureau, and the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, ORBIS is conducting an intensive two-week program (Aug. 25 - Sep. 5) focusing on training and equipping the next generation of Chinese eye care professionals and biomedical engineers. The ORBIS program in Harbin is being sponsored by Alcon.

Keep Eyes Safely On The Ball

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

American Academy of Ophthalmology reminds parents and the public of the importance of protective eyewear for youth sports and back-to-school leagues. Noah was seven years old when an errant paintball smashed into his left eye and sent him from the sidelines of his brothers' game to the emergency room.

AMA Optics Announces New Panoramic Pinhole

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

AMA Optics announces a new Panoramic Pinhole, showing patients what they can expect from cataract surgery. The ancient pinhole, credited to Philosopher Mo Ti in the 5th century, BC is a small aperture in an opaque material that eliminates the peripheral light rays and lessens optical aberrations to allow clear focus without a focusing lens. A disadvantage of the ancient pinhole is that the opaque material surrounding the pinhole limits the field of view. This limitation is overcome by the Panoramic Pinhole invented by Albert J. Hofeldt, MD.

Female Cataract Surgery Patients Report Worse Visual Function, Study Finds

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

After adjusting for age and visual acuity at baseline and postoperatively, a prospective study found that female cataract surgery patients report having worse visual function than male patients. While men had a better best corrected visual acuity at 5 years postop, these differences were not significant.

Achieving Spectacle Independence With Intraocular Lenses In The 21st Century

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The aging of the population means a big increase in the number of people who have developed and will develop cataracts -- and a consequent increase in the demands on the ophthalmic surgeon. Moreover, the success of refractive surgery has created an awareness of and expectation for spectacle independence following cataract surgery. No longer simply satisfied with a return to unobstructed vision, cataract patients are increasingly demanding near 20/20 vision, as well as expecting good distance vision -- all without using spectacles or contact lenses

Insiders Buy Staar As Lasik Alternate Shows Potential

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Aug. 15 (Bloomberg) -- Staar Surgical Co. insiders and investors are buying stock as they bet the company's $3,081 lens implants to correct nearsightedness will gain on less-costly Lasik treatments, increasing the potential for a takeover.

Lens Implant Offers Chance At Beating Lazy Eye

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Dr. Paul Dougherty delicately slipped a tiny lens inside the right eye of 7-year-old Megan Garvin - a last-ditch shot at saving her sight in that eye.

New, Effective Treatment For Presbyopia

Mon, 04 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MCHENRY, Ill., Aug 04, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Until now, people could expect to need reading glasses or bifocals during or after middle age due to an aging process called presbyopia. But today, according to results from a Midwest eye surgical team led by Robert L. Epstein, MD and just published in the Journal of Refractive Surgery ( http://www.journalofrefractivesurgery.com), a process called presbyLASIK completely eliminated the need for all glasses for 92% of middle aged patients, and the effect was proven to last beyond two years.

STAAR Surgical Reports 38% Second Quarter Revenue Growth

Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

MONROVIA, Calif., July 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- STAAR Surgical Company STAA, a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of minimally invasive ophthalmic products, today reported continued progress during its second quarter ended June 27, 2008. The financial results for the period include the operating performance of STAAR Japan, which STAAR acquired at the beginning of fiscal year 2008.

Improve Your Ocular Nutrition To Fight Eye Disease

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

There is now emerging research that suggests that a small protein called glutathione plays a significant role in protecting the eyes. Scientists have been aware of glutathione and its important ocular antioxidant properties for some time, but they did not know until recently how to raise glutathione levels.

AAO Names August Cataract Awareness Month, Urges Those At Risk To See Their Ophthalmologist

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) has named August Cataract Awareness Month to remind those at risk for cataracts to see their ophthalmologist to determine whether they have a cataract and if it should be removed. Risk factors besides aging of the eye include family history, medical problems (such as diabetes), injury to the eye, and medications, especially steroids.

STAAR Surgical's Collamer(R) IOL And Elastimide(R) IOL Each Recognized With New Technology Intraocular Lens Classification

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

STAAR Surgical Company (Nasdaq: STAA), a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of minimally invasive ophthalmic products, today announced that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has designated two of STAAR's new aspheric cataract lenses as New Technology Intraocular Lenses (NTIOLs). The lenses are the Afinity Collamer(R) Aspheric Single Piece foldable intraocular lens (IOL) Model CC4204A and the Elastimide(R) Silicone Aspheric foldable intraocular lens Model AQ2015A. The Afinity Collamer Aspheric Single Piece IOL can be delivered through a 2.2 mm incision using STAAR's new nanoPOINT(TM) Injector System.

Telescope Embedded In Glasses Lens Promises To Make Driving Easier For Visually Impaired

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Glasses embedded with a telescope promise to make it easier for people with impaired vision to drive and do other activities requiring sharper distance vision. Schepens Eye Research Institute scientists describe the advantages of these innovative glasses over earlier devices in an article published in the May/June issue of Journal of Biomedical Optics, mailed in print form to subscribers this month.

IOL Injector Technology Aims To Keep Pace With Microincisional Phaco Platforms

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The advent of foldable IOLs propelled phacoemulsification into the mainstream of cataract surgery, allowing small incisions and minimizing complications. However, since the first injection device for a foldable IOL emerged in the mid-1980s, injection technology has lagged as incisions have shrunk.

ASCRS Survey Details Risks Of Alpha-Blockers, IFIS

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A specific alpha-blocker can complicate and increase the risks of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome during cataract surgery, according to results from an online survey of American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery members.

Dr. James A. Davies Of Innovision Eye Care Center Implants The First 'Bionic' High-Def Lens

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Less than 24 hours after FDA approval, Dr. James A. Davies of Innovision Eye Care Center was first in the world to successfully implant the Crystalens HDT model intraocular lens manufactured by Bausch & Lomb.

FDA Gives Thumbs Up To Eye Drug

Thu, 03 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The FDA has approved Sirion Therapeutics' Durezol, a topical steroid used to treat postoperative ocular inflammation and pain.

Clarification Of Medicare Claims Processing Pending Congressional Intervention On The 10.6% Reduction

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Yesterday afternoon, CMS hosted a private call for the medical specialty societies on the pending 10.6% reduction in Medicare Physician Fees scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2008, and CMS' actions related to this reduction.

Medicare Puts Brief Hold On All Payments To Physicians

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, June 30 -- Medicare officials said today that the agency will not process any payments to physicians until July 15 at the earliest, leaving the congressionally mandated 10.6% reimbursement reduction in limbo.

Crystalens HD(TM) Receives FDA Approval

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bausch & Lomb announced today that it has received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market the Crystalens HD(TM) in the United States. Crystalens accommodating intraocular lens (IOL) was first approved by the FDA in November 2003. The Crystalens HD is the fourth generation of the only FDA approved accommodating lens.

Phaco For Primary Angle Closure Glaucoma Could Change Disease Severity

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In patients with uncontrolled primary angle closure glaucoma, phacoemulsification alone may be a sufficient surgical option.

Methicillin-Resistant Ocular Infections Of Increasing Concern

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The rate of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus eye infections appears to be increasing, experts say, and surgeons are encountering more cases, particularly after refractive and cataract surgeries.

UPDATE 2-LCA-Vision Sees Lower Q2 Procedure Volume, Shares Slide

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

LCA-Vision Inc (LCAV.O: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz), a provider of laser vision correction services, expects a 40 percent fall in total procedure volume in the second quarter from a year ago, partly due to a panel recommending U.S. health regulators make clearer the risks of LASIK procedures.

Sirion Therapeutics Announces FDA Approval Of Durezol For Treatment Of Postoperative Ocular Inflammation And Pain

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Sirion Therapeutics, Inc., a privately held ophthalmic-focused biopharmaceutical company, announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its new drug application for Durezol(TM) (difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion) 0.05%, a topical steroid for the treatment of postoperative ocular inflammation and pain. The approval came after a six month priority review.

Announcement of New President And CEO Of Nidek Co., Ltd.

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Gamagori, JAPAN, -- NIDEK Co., Ltd. announced that Mr. Hideo Ozawa was appointed Chairman of the Board, and Mr. Motoki Ozawa was promoted to President and CEO. This decision was approved at the Board Meeting, after the Annual Shareholders Meeting on June 24, 2008. Under this new management, NIDEK will continue to target further growth in ophthalmic and aesthetic markets as well as optical systems and the coating business.

Advanced Medical Optics Enters Into Cross-Licensing Patent Agreement With Alcon

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) (NYSE:EYE) announced today that it has entered into a patent cross-licensing agreement with Alcon, Inc. (NYSE:ACL) relating to lubricious coatings for intraocular lens (IOL) inserters and one-piece IOL haptic designs. AMO is granting a license to Alcon to AMO's U.S. Patent Nos. 5,803,925, entitled "IOL Insertion Apparatus with Covalently Bonded Lubricant," and 5,716,364, entitled "IOL Insertion Apparatus and Method for Making and Using Same," and related foreign patents. Alcon is granting AMO a license to Alcon's U.S. Patent No. 5,716,403, entitled "Single Piece Foldable Intraocular Lens," and related foreign patents, in so far as they relate to AMO's newly-launched Tecnis(R) One-Piece Intraocular Lens. As part of this cross-license agreement, Alcon will make a payment to AMO of $31 million and AMO will make a payment to Alcon of $10 million. All other terms of the agreement are confidential.

Clinical Trial of Nonsurgical Intervention for Aortic Valve Stenosis

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

On Nov. 26, 2007, doctors at the Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute performed the first "transcatheter" minimally invasive replacement of an aortic heart valve in the western United States, using the SAPIEN transcatheter aortic heart valve developed by Edwards Lifesciences Corp. Cedars-Sinai is one of 15 centers participating in a pivotal clinical trial (the PARTNER trial) of the device, and is the leading enroller in the nation. It is currently the only West Coast site.

FDA To Study Lasik's Long-Term Effects On Lifestyle

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

THROUGHOUT my life, I've been blessed with 20/20 vision -- until recently. In just the last several months, I've had to hold menus at arm's length to read them. I fall asleep after reading only three or four pages of a novel. I find myself squinting in an attempt to bring the world into focus. And I have to use a larger font on the computer -- and rely on my children to read fine print.

ILM Peeling With Vitrectomy May Reduce Premacular Fibrosis Recurrence, Study Says

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In the long term, internal limiting membrane peeling with vitrectomy can reduce reformation rates of premacular fibrosis and may not be as harmful as previously understood, a retrospective study suggests.

Akorn, Inc. Receives NDA Approvable Letter For Akten� Ophthalmic Gel 3.5%

Fri, 06 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Akorn, Inc. (NASDAQ: AKRX) today announced the receipt of an FDA approvable letter for Akten� Ophthalmic Gel 3.5%, an ocular topical anesthetic drug product. Our approvable letter identified several minor CMC deficiencies that must be addressed and rectified before final approval is granted. The majority of these items have been addressed in our previous submissions to the FDA. The remaining response will be submitted to the FDA within the next ten days. No additional clinical data is required.

First Insight� And DrFirst� Launch A True "End-To-End" E-Prescribing Solution For The Ophthalmic Industry

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

First Insight Corporation, a leading practice management and electronic medical records (EMR) software company, and DrFirst, the leader in electronic prescribing and medication reconciliation, announced today that First Insight is the first practice management and EMR software company focused exclusively on the ophthalmic market to publicly launch a true "end-to-end" e-prescribing solution through its integration with DrFirst's award winning GoldRxT certified RcopiaT e-Prescribing technology.

A Genetic Marker For Nearsightedness? Update On Vitamins And AMD

Tue, 03 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The June 2008 issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, includes a groundbreaking study on genetic factors and nearsightedness, a cautionary tale on age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patients' vitamin use, and good news for people who have had an acute attack of optic neuritis.

Presby-LASIK May Be Better Option Than Multifocal IOLs, Study Shows

Tue, 20 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

PARIS - Both multifocal IOLs and presby-LASIK are viable solutions for presbyopia correction, but the latter has a greater range of visual acuity at different distances, according to a study presented here.

Laser Welding May Be Effective For Capsule Repair

Mon, 19 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

NAPLES, Italy - A new laser welding technique may help repair lens capsule trauma that occurs during standard IOL implantation and in providing closure of the capsulorrhexis in lens-refilling procedures, according to an international team of surgeons.

Toric IOL Has Good Preliminary Results

Tue, 13 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

NAPLES, Italy - Preliminary results with the toric Artiflex IOL from Ophtec seem to indicate that this lens is ideal for correcting both sphere and cylinder, according to one speaker here.

ArGentis Licenses Third Treatment For Dry Eye Syndrome

Tue, 13 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

arGentis Pharmaceuticals, LLC announced today that the company has licensed a third treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) now designated ARG103. This is a continuance of the licensing partnership arGentis has with the Southern College of Optometry (SCO) and becomes the third prospective therapy for DES that utilizes the transdermal delivery of an active pharmaceutical ingredient to affected glands via application of a cream or gel to the outer, upper and lower eyelids.

Cataract Surgery May Be Best Glaucoma Surgery, Expert Says

Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

NAPLES, Italy - Cataract extraction alone may be the best and most appropriate procedure for patients with controlled or moderately uncontrolled glaucoma, according to one surgeon.

Pupil Size Differences Noted with Moxifloxacin and Gatifloxacin Before Eye Surgery: Presented At ARVO

Mon, 05 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla -- May 5, 2008 -- Patients who are treated with the antibiotic moxifloxacin 0.5% before having cataract surgery appear to have a significant reduction in pupil size, while there appears to be no significant change in pupil size in patients treated with gatifloxacin 0.3% before surgery.

Incoming ASCRS President Calls For Innovation In Education, Advocacy

Mon, 05 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

CHICAGO - The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery must sustain the momentum of its impact by continually introducing innovation to its education and advocacy efforts, said incoming president Bradford J. Shingleton, MD, at the Opening General Session of the ASCRS annual meeting here.

Vitamin E Offers No Protection From Cataracts

Mon, 05 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

BOSTON, May 1 -- Ten years of vitamin E supplements were associated with no effect on cataract development among middle-age and older women, researchers here found. Among 37,675 participants in the Women's Health Study, involving women 45 and older, 1,159 of those taking vitamin E supplements and 1,217 of those taking placebo developed cataracts, reported William G. Christen, D.Sc., of Brigham and Women's Hospital, and colleagues in the May issue of Ophthalmology.

Intracameral Cefuroxime Safe, Effective For Endophthalmitis

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Intracameral administration of cefuroxime is a safe and effective alternative to subconjunctival delivery of the drug for the treatment of endophthalmitis after cataract surgery, according to research presented by Patrick Yu-Wai-Man, MRCOphth. Dr. Yu-Wai-Man, of the Sunderland Eye Infirmary, Sunderland, United Kingdom, discussed results of a retrospective study of all presumed infectious endophthalmitis cases presenting at the institution from Jan. 1, 2000 to Dec. 31, 2006. He said it was the first study comparing the two delivery methods of cefuroxime.

InSite Vision (ISV) Signs AzaSite(R) Licensing And Distribution Agreement With Biem Pharmaceuticals

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

InSite Vision Incorporated (AMEX:ISV - News) announced today that it has signed a licensing and distribution agreement with Biem Pharmaceuticals, an ophthalmology-focused Turkish pharmaceutical company, for InSite's AzaSite� (azithromycin ophthalmic solution) 1% for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis (pink eye).

Caffeine May Help Prevent UV-B Damage, Cataract Formation

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Fort Lauderdale, FL - A study to be presented at the 2008 Annual Meeting of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology demonstrates that caffeine may be effective against UV-B induced damage to the eye lens. The research will be available on Monday, April 28, 8.30-10.15am in Hall B/C of the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center.

FCI Ophthalmics Announces New Web Site Design

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Marshfield Hills, MA -- FCI Ophthalmics, Inc. has launched its website www.fci-ophthalmics.com with a dynamic new look. The redesigned site provides online visitors with simple navigation and expanded content about the company's products and related surgical procedures.

Alcon Reports 16.2% Increase In First-Quarter Sales

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

HUENENBERG, Switzerland - Alcon reported global sales of $1.54 billion for the first quarter, a 16.2% increase - or 9.4% excluding the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations - compared with the first quarter of 2007, the company announced in a press release.

PREVIEW-LASIK Industry Braces For U.S. FDA Meeting

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The laser eye surgery industry is steeling itself ahead of a Friday meeting expected to draw complaints from patients with blurred vision and other complications of a popular vision procedure.

OphthalmologyWeb And GE Healthcare Financial Services Partner To Streamline Financing For Eyecare Professionals

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., April 22, 2008 - OphthalmologyWeb is pleased to announce an exclusive partnership with GE Healthcare Financial Services that will allow users of OphthalmologyWeb's leading online medical product directory to quickly access GE Healthcare Financial Services' financing solutions when they inquire about the pricing and availability of today's latest diagnostic and surgical equipment used by eye care professionals. Learning how to finance the purchase is as easy as checking a box in OphthalmologyWeb's secure information and quote request system. In addition, GE Healthcare Financial Services will provide OphthalmologyWeb users with information on a broad array of financing solutions ranging from equipment financing to start-up or acquisition financing.

Akorn, Inc. (AKN) Announces FDA Approval Of Diclofenac Sodium Ophthalmic Solution 0.1%

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Akorn, Inc. (NASDAQ: AKRX - News) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval for Akorn's Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) for Diclofenac Sodium Ophthalmic Solution, 0.1%.

MU Researchers Find Clue To Cataract Formation

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It is the No. 1 line-item cost of Medicare reimbursement and affects more than 20 million people in the United States. Cataracts, which can have devastating effects on the eye, affect 42 percent of the population between the ages of 70 and 80, and 68 percent of the population over the age of 80, according to the National Eye Institute. Now, a University of Missouri professor has identified an important step in how cataracts form. This discovery, published in a recent edition of The Journal of Biological Chemistry, could lead to a better treatment or cure for cataracts in the future.

Cataract Research: Genetic Defect Responsible For Small Eyes And Clouded Lens Discovered

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The ocular lens belongs to the optical apparatus and focuses incidental beams of light onto the retina. Now, a research team led by Professor Dr. Jochen Graw of the Institute of Developmental Genetics, of the Helmholtz Zentrum M�nchen, has been able to decipher a genetic defect responsible for small eyes and an incomplete, clouded lens in the so-called Aey12 mouse mutants. These results lead to conclusions concerning cataracts in humans, because, in this case too, the lens loses its transparency.

Micro-Bypass Stent Reduces IOP, Medications In Combined Cataract Procedure

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

CHICAGO - When implanted with a micro-bypass stent after combined cataract surgery, uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma patients showed significantly reduced IOP and medication use, a clinician said here.

Sirion Therapeutics Highlights Pivotal Trial Results Of Durezol At The American Society Of Cataract And Refractive Surgery Annual Symposium

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Sirion Therapeutics, Inc., a privately held ophthalmic-focused biopharmaceutical company, announced today the presentation of data from two Phase 3 clinical trials of Durezol(TM) (difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion) 0.05%, a topical steroid in the treatment of postoperative ocular inflammation. The results were given in a presentation by Michael Korenfeld, MD during the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery Annual Symposium in Chicago, Illinois.

Drugmaker Buys Share Of Fort Worth-Based Alcon For $11 Billion

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Fort Worth-based Alcon Laboratories is getting a second Swiss parent. Drugmaker Novartis AG will pay the Nestle food company $11 billion for a 25 percent share of Alcon and gain an option to acquire Nestle's remaining 52 percent share by 2011 for up to $28 billion, both companies announced Monday.

Crystalline Lens Could Play Major Role In Development Of Ocular Hypertension And Adult Glaucoma

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Phacoemulsification with IOL implantation is an effective treatment for lowering pressure in patients with ocular hypertension or glaucoma with IOPs of 20 mm Hg and higher, a researcher said here.

The Herzig Eye Institute Demystifies Cataracts With A Patient's Guide To Advanced Cataract Technology Solutions

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Cataracts are one of the leading causes of vision loss and blindness in the world, but that doesn't mean patients have to be left in the dark. The Herzig Eye Institute has developed A Patient's Guide to Advanced Cataract Technology Solutions, a complimentary direct-to-consumer education resource guide to help patients understand the various treatment options available for people with advanced cataracts.

Topcon Introduces OMS-710 Surgical Microscope

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

PARAMUS, NJ, April 7, 2008 - Topcon Medical Systems, Inc. (TMS), of Paramus, NJ, is pleased to introduce the new OMS-710 Operation Microscope, designed specifically for cataract and anterior segment surgery.

MDs And ODs Tout Integrated Eye Care Delivery Model

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

CHICAGO - Efficiency and better patient care are the top reasons ophthalmologists and optometrists should work together in an integrated office setting, according to a panel of ophthalmologists and optometrists speaking here.

Climate Change Increases Cataract Blindness Risk: Experts

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Climate change will increase the risk of people losing their sight through cataracts because of higher levels of ultraviolet rays, an expert said Monday.

Incoming ASCRS President Calls for Innovation in Education, Advocacy Initiatives

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

CHICAGO - The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery must sustain the momentum of its impact by introducing innovation to its education and advocacy efforts, said incoming president Bradford J. Shingleton, MD, at the Opening General Session of the ASCRS annual meeting here.

Pilot Trial for Toric Correction with Light-Adjustable Lens Yields Promising Early Results

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Early experience from a pilot study shows that spherocylindrical error after cataract surgery can be corrected with a proprietary light-adjustable lens (LAL, Calhoun Vision) to improve uncorrected visual acuity, said Arturo S. Chayet, MD.

Task Force Calls on Surgeons to Become More Proactive in TASS Prevention

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

CHICAGO - Ophthalmologists and their staff must take more aggressive preventive measures against toxic anterior segment syndrome, according to one of the leaders of a task force convened to combat the infection. Speaking here at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) meeting, Nick Mamalis, MD, outlined steps the task force has determined are necessary to contain TASS outbreaks. The task force was convened by the ASCRS in 2006 following outbreaks in more than 100 centers.

Bradford J. Shingleton, MD Becomes American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery President

Sat, 05 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Fairfax, VA - Bradford J. Shingleton, MD, of Boston, Massachusetts assumed the duties of president of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) today in ceremonies at the Society's annual Symposium and Congress in Chicago, Illinois.

Latest ASCRS Survey Finds MRSA Has Risen to Top of List of Infection Culprits

Sat, 05 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

CHICAGO - Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus has emerged as the most common infection occurring after LASIK and surface ablation procedures, according to survey results evaluating trends in infectious keratitis throughout 2007. Terry Kim, MD, presented the results of the study here yesterday during Cornea Day, preceding the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery annual meeting. The survey, sponsored by the ASCRS Corneal Clinical Committee, is an update to those presented in 2002 and 2005, and seeks to analyze the changes since the first survey was undertaken.

Carl Zeiss Meditec Delivers Key Technological Advances in Optical Coherence Tomography

Sat, 05 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

DUBLIN, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Carl Zeiss Meditec, a leader in ophthalmic devices and surgical systems, announced today that two new optical coherence tomography (OCT) applications will be available for the first time at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ASCRS) meeting in Chicago, IL at booth 2028. With advanced algorithms available for CirrusT HD-OCT and StratusT OCT, ophthalmologists now have the most advanced imaging capabilities available for assessing and managing glaucoma and diseases of the retina.

Analyst: Laser Downturn Overblown for Advanced Medical

Sat, 05 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics Inc. got a boost Friday from a Jefferies & Co. analyst who said that laser vision surgeries using the company's equipment are holding up in spite of a slow economy. Analyst Peter Bye said shares of the Santa Ana maker of eye surgery products and contact lens solutions were his top pick in the sector. Advanced Medical's shares, Bye said, should rise the rest of the year as the company's performance improves.

Eye Disease Continuing To Increase Among Americans

Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Millions of Americans are currently living with age-related eye disease and, according to the latest research from Prevent Blindness America and the National Eye Institute, that number is continuing to climb. With more than 130 million Americans aged 40 and older, more than 30 million suffer from leading causes of vision loss such as cataract, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and glaucoma, according to the newly revised edition of the "Vision Problems in the U.S." study.

Advanced Medical Optics To Webcast Live Technology Update On New Products To Be Featured At ASCRS

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) (NYSE:EYE) today announced it will host a live Webcast of its Technology Update on Saturday, April 5, 2008 at 4pm EDT to provide an overview of new technologies highlighted at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Symposium and Congress in Chicago.

New Research On How Season Of Birth May Affect Nearsightedness And On Cornea Donor Sources

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Does season of birth play a role in the development of nearsightedness? Do corneas from older donors meet quality standards for transplant surgery? These are among the topics explored in the April 2008 issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Advanced Medical Optics Introduces TECNIS(R) 1-Piece Intraocular Lens In U.S.

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) (NYSE: EYE), a global leader in ophthalmic surgical devices and eye care products, today announced the U.S. introduction of the TECNIS(R) 1-Piece intraocular lens (IOL).

Digital Series And H-R Wide Field Lenses From Volk Optical At ASCRS: Lenses Deliver Best Resolution And Views For Non-Contact Or Laser Work

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Mentor, Ohio (March 26, 2008) - Volk Optical, the industry leader in aspheric optics, will be exhibiting at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Annual Meeting, April 4 through 9 at the McCormick Center in Chicago, Illinois.

More Women Losing Sight To Eye Disease Than Men

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

More women than men are diagnosed with vision threatening eye disease every year. Potentially blinding diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy strike women in some cases almost twice as much as men. Although the theories for the cause of this vary, the numbers illustrate a disturbing truth.

Orbis Flying Hospital Lands in Da Nang to Train Medical Staff

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

DA NANG - The US-based Orbis Flying Eye Hospital, which will offer training to local doctors, nurses and technicians onboard a DC-10 aircraft, arrived in Da Nang on Monday. The aircraft and medical team will be based at Da Nang Airport until April 4. On board are 14 leading ophthalmologists from Australia, Italy, the US, the UK and other countries, assisting 100 Vietnamese doctors and nurses in eye treatment and restoration.

A Clearer Picture of Cloudy Eyes

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A new study appearing online March 21 in JBC provides more insight into cataracts, the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in the elderly, finding that small pieces of a perfectly normal protein become toxic during the aging process.

ASCRS Meeting Seeks To Address Future Needs Of Ophthalmology

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The meeting will feature specific content targeting young MDs, as well as a symposium highlighting an integrated MD/OD approach to eye care. In addition to its usual educational program, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery is placing an increased emphasis this year on reaching out to young ophthalmologists. The meeting will also have a symposium discussing an eye care model to help established practices become more efficient and productive, according to ASCRS leadership.

STAAR Surgical's Collamer(R) IOL Designated As A New Technology Intraocular Lens By The Centers For Medicare And Medicaid Services

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

STAAR Surgical Company (Nasdaq: STAA), a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of minimally invasive ophthalmic products, today announced that the Afinity Collamer(R) Aspheric foldable intraocular lens (IOL) Model CQ2015A has been designated as a New Technology Intraocular Lens (NTIOL) by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). To receive NTIOL recognition an IOL must first be an FDA approved IOL with labeling and advertising consistent with the specific claim or characteristic for which CMS approval is being sought. In addition, there must be evidence that the use of the IOL results in measurable, clinically meaningful improved patient outcomes in comparison with use of currently available IOLs. The STAAR Afinity Collamer Aspheric IOL has proven to reduce spheric aberrations leading to improved visual acuity and increased contrast sensitivity.

Coaxial Microincision Cataract Surgery, Conventional Technique Yield Similar Outcomes, Study Says

Wed, 05 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Despite posting longer ultrasound and surgical durations, the coaxial microincision technique appears safe and effective, with comparable postoperative outcomes to conventional coaxial cataract surgery, according to a prospective study by researchers in Switzerland

Sirion Therapeutics Receives NDA Acceptance And Priority Review From The FDA For Durezol(TM) In The Treatment Of Postoperative Ocular Inflammation

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Sirion Therapeutics, Inc., a privately held ophthalmic-focused biopharmaceutical company, today announced that its New Drug Application (NDA) for Durezol(TM) has been accepted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and granted priority review. Sirion Therapeutics is seeking approval from the FDA for its investigational compound Durezol(TM) (difluprednate ophthalmic emulsion) 0.05%, a twice-daily steroid, as a treatment for postoperative ocular inflammation.

New Research On Cataract Prevalence, Alternative Glaucoma Therapies Online, Seatbelts Vs. Airbags, And Hearing Loss In Glaucoma Patients

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Are cataract rates on the decline? Should glaucoma patients seeking alternative therapies trust what they find online? Are seatbelts still important to protect eyes in auto accidents, now that most cars have airbags? What's the connection between hearing loss and one form of glaucoma? These are among the topics explored in the March 2008 issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

The Tetraflex Presbyopic Lens Offers Exceptional Vision Improvement To Presbyopic Patients

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Vision Rejuvenation Victoria(TM) is pleased to announce that they have become the first centre in Western Canada to implant the recently approved Tetraflex(TM) Presbyopic Intraocular Lens (IOL).

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (ISTA) Announces Physician-Sponsored Clinical Study Of Xibrom(TM) Combination Therapy With Lucentis(R)

Mon, 25 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. , announced today the acceptance of an abstract describing the results of a study using Xibrom(TM) (bromfenac ophthalmic solution) 0.09% therapy in combination with Lucentis(R) (ranibizumab injection) in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). According to the abstract, patients who received Xibrom required 1.6 +/- 0.69 injections of Lucentis during the six-month study period, while patients who received only Lucentis received 4.5 +/- 0.41 injections.

New Cataract Gene Discovered

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The international team of researchers was able to identify the location and defect in the coding region of the gene through analysis of genetic material (DNA) from members of a large Swiss family, the majority of whom suffered from autosomal dominant juvenile cataract. The corresponding protein belongs to a family of monocarboxylate transporters which move small molecules across cell mem-branes. Surprisingly, this genetic defect may also lead to the condition of renal glucosuria, a non-pathological kidney defect with elevated levels of glucose in the urine, but not in blood.

The Romans Carried Out Cataract Ops

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Think of the Roman legacy to Britain and many things spring to mind - straight roads, under-floor heating, aqueducts and public baths. But they were also pioneers in the health arena - particularly in the area of eye care, with remedies for various eye conditions such as short-sightedness and conjunctivitis. Perhaps most surprisingly of all is that the Romans - and others from ancient times, including the Chinese, Indians and Greeks - were also able also to carry out cataract operations.

Former Cy Young Pitcher Jim Palmer Wins Malpractice Suit After Botched Eye Surgery

Thu, 07 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Hall of Fame pitcher Jim Palmer was awarded $890,000 after a West Palm Beach jury found an ophthalmologist liable for damaging his vision. After a two-week trial, it took a jury about four hours to decide Palmer should receive the money for suffering, lost wages and mental and physical pain. The jury awarded Palmer $327,000 in lost earnings and $563,000 in pain and suffering. Palmer sued his ophthalmologist after cataract surgery on his left eye. Palmer's doctor implanted an artificial lens that should not have been used because it was known for creating night vision problems.

Journal Highlights New Findings On Age-Related Macular Degeneration And Nutrition, Eye Injuries In The Iraq War, And Quality Of Life For Glaucoma Patients

Wed, 06 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO, CA- What nutrients are under investigation for their possible role in age-related macular degeneration (AMD)? What is the incidence of eye trauma among troops serving in Iraq? How does glaucoma affect the quality of life of patients? These are among the issues addressed in the February 2008 issue of Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Advanced Medical Optics Enters Into Phacoemulsification Patent Agreement With Bausch & Lomb

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) (NYSE:EYE), a global leader in ophthalmic medical devices and eye care products, today announced that it has entered into an agreement with Bausch & Lomb, Inc. regarding AMO's U.S. Patent entitled "Fluid Management Systems with Vertex Chamber" (Patent No. 6,059,765) and its foreign counterparts, all of which relate to peristaltic pump fluidics used in phacoemulsification systems. Bausch & Lomb will pay AMO a royalty under the agreement. All other terms of the agreement are confidential.

Bausch & Lomb To Buy Eyeonics Inc.

Mon, 21 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Eye-care company Bausch & Lomb said on Sunday it agreed to buy privately held Eyeonics Inc, which makes an intraocular lens used for the treatment of cataracts.

New Implantable Lenses Can Reduce The Need For Glasses After Cataract Surgery

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Cataract surgery involves removing a clouded natural lens from inside the eye and replacing it with a plastic one. While the operation itself hasn't changed much over recent years, the plastic lenses have. The biggest advantage of the newer lenses is their ability to reduce the need for glasses after surgery, says a newly updated report from Harvard Medical School.

American Academy Of Ophthalmology Mourns Loss Of Judah Folkman, MD, Pioneering Researcher

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The American Academy of Ophthalmology expresses its sadness at the death of Judah Folkman, MD, (Moses Judah Folkman, MD) whose research on angiogenesis inhibitors sparked major advances in the treatment of eye diseases and other illnesses that involve excessive or abnormal angiogenesis, or blood vessel development.

Diets High In Lutein, Zeaxanthin And Vitamin E Associated With Decreased Risk Of Cataracts

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Women who have higher dietary intake of lutein and zeaxanthin-compounds found in yellow or dark, leafy vegetables-as well as more vitamin E from food and supplements appear to have a lower risk for developing cataracts, according to a report in the January issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Congress Delays 10.1% Fee Cut Until July

Thu, 10 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC-In the final days of its 2007 session, Congress passed a temporary fix to delay a scheduled 10.1% Medicare fee cut to physicians for 6 months and provided physicians with a positive 0.5% update.

IntraLase Creates Increased Risk Of Diffuse Lamellar Keratitis (DLK)

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In a recently published article in the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery (Volume 34, Issue 1, January 2008, Pages 28-31), researchers in Spain found that despite twice the standard postoperative dexamethasone treatment (8 drops daily vs. q.i.d.), stage 3 DLK seemed to occur more frequently with IntraLase flap creation vs. the using the Moria M2 microkeratome. The study included 2000 eyes, 1000 in each group. 4 patients in the Intralase group developed stage 3 DLK. Stage 2 DLK developed in 1 patient in each group.

David W. Parke II, MD, Assumes Presidency Of American Academy Of Ophthalmology

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

David W. Parke II, MD, became the new president of the American Academy of Ophthalmology on Jan. 1, 2008, taking over from departing president C.P. Wilkinson, MD. Dr. Parke is the Edward L. Gaylord Professor and chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Oklahoma. He is also president and CEO of the Dean A. McGee Eye Institute in Oklahoma City, Okla.

First Eye Cataract Surgery Cost Effective Over a Lifetime

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

First eye cataract surgery is cost effective when the horizon is the patient's remaining lifetime, although not when considered over the first 12 months after surgery, according to a report in the December issue of the British Journal of Ophthalmology.

ISTA Pharmaceuticals Submits New Drug Application for Xibrom(TM) QD (once-Daily)

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: ISTA), announced today the Company has submitted a New Drug Application (NDA) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for Xibrom(TM) QD (once-daily). The Company is seeking approval for Xibrom QD as a treatment for inflammation, pain, and photophobia following cataract surgery.

Penn State Hershey Eye Center Forms

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and Penn State College of Medicine today announced the formation of Penn State Hershey Eye Center.

The eye center combines the clinical care offered by the department of ophthalmology with research and education programs, which makes it easier for the physicians and researchers to work together.

Cionni Endocapsular Ring Effective For Lens Subluxation In Marfan's Syndrome

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Implantation of a Cionni ring and an intraocular lens appears to be a generally successful means of dealing with eyes with a subluxated lens associated with Marfan's syndrome, according to Canadian researchers.

The World Economic Forum Announces Technology Pioneers 2008: NuLens Selected

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

HERZELIYA, ISRAEL, Nov 29 (MARKET WIRE) -- The World Economic Forum today announced 39 visionary companies selected as Technology Pioneers 2008. NuLens Ltd. has been selected as one of these Technology Pioneers.

Eye Surgery Errors Uncommon But Preventable

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Surgical mix-ups may be uncommon in ophthalmology and cause little permanent harm, but most could be avoided by following simple protocols, researchers said.

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (ISTA)'s Once-Daily Ocular Inflammation Drug Meets Goal

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: ISTA - News), presented today results from the Company's two Phase III clinical trials of Xibrom(TM) (bromfenac sodium ophthalmic solution) QD (once- daily) formulation, a new formulation of ISTA's ocular, non-steroidal anti- inflammatory agent. The multi-center studies evaluated the new once-daily formulation of Xibrom versus placebo in over 500 patients who underwent cataract surgery. The highly statistically significant findings demonstrated Xibrom QD (once-daily) was superior to placebo (P less than or equal to 0.0001) in achieving both the primary efficacy endpoint of absence of ocular inflammation 15 days following surgery and the secondary efficacy endpoint of elimination of ocular pain at day one.

Physics Provides New Insights on Cataract Formation

Sun, 11 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Using the tools and techniques of soft condensed matter physics, a research team in Switzerland has demonstrated that a finely tuned balance of attractions between proteins keeps the lens of the eye transparent, and that even a small change in this balance can cause proteins to aggregate and de-mix. This leads to cataract formation, the world's leading cause of blindness.

Ophthalmic Imaging Systems to Launch Three New Products at the American Academy of Ophthalmology's (AAO) 111th Annual Meeting

Sun, 11 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ophthalmic Imaging Systems (OIS) (OTCBB:OISI), a leading provider of ophthalmic digital imaging and informatics solutions, announced today that it will launch three new products at the American Academy of Ophthalmology's (AAO) 111th Annual Meeting being held November 10th - 13th, at Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans.

Clarity Medical Systems Inc. To Present China Telemedicine Demonstrations At AAO Conference In New Orleans November 10 - 12, 2007

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

NEW ORLEANS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Clarity Medical Systems, Inc., manufacturer of the RetCamT II and the RetCamT Shuttle Digital Imaging Systems, will present several global telemedicine events from China on Saturday, November 10, Sunday, November 11, and Monday, November 12, at the company's theater tradeshow booth #1058 at the 2007 annual conference of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) in New Orleans. Conference attendees are invited to witness China's leading ophthalmic practitioners diagnosing and directing treatment, direct from three hospitals in China, before a live audience in real-time in New Orleans.

Angiotech To Participate In The American Academy Of Ophthalmology (AAO) 2007 Annual Meeting

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

VANCOUVER, Nov. 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - Angiotech Pharmaceuticals, Inc. , a global specialty pharmaceutical and medical device company, today announced that it plans to exhibit its SharpGuard(TM) product line as well as all of its Sharpoint(TM) brand ophthalmic disposable surgical instruments at the upcoming American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) annual meeting.

Reimbursement is the Defining Factor Between American Intraocular Lens Market Versus Rest of the World

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Millennium Research Group forecasts that the US will rapidly adopt advanced intraocular lenses (IOL), while inflexible reimbursement programs in Europe and Japan will delay the adoption of these vision-enhancing devices. According to Millennium Research Group's global cataract reports, including US Markets for Cataract and Refractive Devices, European Markets for Cataract and Refractive Devices, and Japanese Markets for Cataract and Refractive Devices, the US IOL market will surpass $980 million in 2011, compared to only $458 million in Europe and Japan combined.

Abbott Study Examines Rates of Uveitis (Inflammation of the Eye) in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients Treated with HUMIRA(R) (adalimumab)

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ABBOTT PARK, Ill. A study of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients treated with Abbott's HUMIRA(R) showed a decrease in the rate of uveitis flares by approximately half compared to patients treated with placebo.

Axial Length May Adjust After Pediatric Cataract Surgery to Meet the Fellow Eye

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

This retrospective study of 47 eyes grouped patients into three categories based on their preoperative interocular axial length difference (the difference in the axial length between the operated eye and fellow eye). Those eyes with a difference of -0.2 mm or more were in Group 1, those with a difference between -0.2 and 0.2 mm were in Group 2, and those with a difference -0.2 mm or less were in Group 3.

Vistakon Pharmaceuticals Introduces IQUIX� (levofloxacin Ophthalmic Solution) 1.5% - A Milestone in the Treatment of Corneal Ulcers

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (October 29, 2007) - VISTAKON� Pharmaceuticals, LLC, today announced the introduction of IQUIX� (levofloxacin ophthalmic solution) 1.5% ocular anti-infective medication - the only newer-generation fluoroquinolone approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of corneal ulcers.

Medical Nanoimaging Pinpoints Cause Of Cataracts

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ScienceDaily (Oct. 20, 2007) - At the Institut Curie, Simon Scheuring and the research team1, have for the first time observed a diseased tissue at very high resolution using atomic force microscopy (AFM). By studying the membranes of cells in a patient's eye cataract, Scheuring has discovered the molecular cause of this disease.

Physicians Successfully Trained To Perform Cataract Surgery In Rural China

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Patients in rural China who received cataract surgery from specially trained non-ophthalmologists had improved vision 10 to 14 months following surgery, according to an article that will appear in the November 2007 print issue of Archives of Ophthalmology. This article was released along with articles from more than 200 other journals participating in a Global Theme Issue on the theme of Poverty and Human Development, coordinated by the Council of Science Editors. Presentations based on some of the articles in this Global Theme Issue will be webcast live from the National Institutes of Health (http://videocast.nih.gov/summary.asp?/live=6239).

Committee For Medicinal Products For Human Use Summary Of Positive Opinion For Nevanac

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

On 18 October 2007 the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) adopted a positive opinion, recommending to grant a marketing authorisation for the medicinal product NEVANAC, 1 mg/ml, Eye drops, suspension intended for the prevention and treatment of postoperative pain and inflammation associated with cataract surgery. The applicant for this medicinal product is Alcon Laboratories (UK) Ltd.

New Lenses Offer Cataract Patients Clearer Future

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

You're reading and you notice 3's look like 8's or vice versa. When driving, you find yourself needing to be closer to road signs to make the words out clearly. The world just starts to look a little hazy.

Cataract Surgery: A Bargain, Despite the Price

Sun, 23 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Everyone, if they live long enough, will suffer from a cataract that clouds the vision in one or both eyes.

Bausch & Lomb Launches The StellarisT Vision Enhancement System In Europe At ESCRS 2007

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

STOCKHOLM, Sweden--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Bausch & Lomb is launching its Stellaris Vision Enhancement System in Europe at the XXV Congress of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS), which begins this weekend in Stockholm.

Cataract Surgery Improves Quality Of Life In AMD Patients With Cataract

Wed, 29 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Performing cataract surgery in patients with early age-related macular degeneration and visually significant cataract can produce significant improvements in both vision and quality of life, a study by Australian researchers shows.

Increasing Exposure to PUVA Does Not Increase Cataract Risk

Wed, 22 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The age-adjusted incidence of cataract does not appear to increase with ongoing exposure to psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) for psoriasis, according to results of a study published in the August issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

New Device Makes Cataract Surgery Easier

Tue, 14 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A new surgical device called a pulsed electron avalanche knife (PEAK-fc), which cuts tissue with short bursts of electric pulses, makes it easier to perform cataract surgery in complicated cases, according to a report in the British Journal of Ophthalmology.

Gebauer Medizintechnik GmbH Obtains CE Approval for its New Single Use SL Keratome

Fri, 03 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Gebauer announced that their new Gebauer SL Keratome for LASIK and Epi-LASIK procedures has received CE approval. The CE Mark indicates conformity to the legal requirements of the European Union (EU) Directive with respect to Medical Devices.

Volk Optical Launches New Website

Tue, 31 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Mentor, Ohio (July 31, 2007) - Volk Optical, the industry leader in aspheric optics, has launched a redesigned website to better meet the needs of its internet ophthalmic customers. The new site, accessible at www.volk.com, incorporates advanced software tools to provide better information with faster loading times, is easier to navigate, and has superior e-commerce security.

Visual Impairment Associated With Increased Mortality Risk

Mon, 09 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Individuals age 49 and older with cataract and those age 49 to 74 years with age-related macular degeneration appear to have higher mortality rates over an 11-year period than those without such visual impairments, according to a report in the July issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Akorn, Inc. Announces The New Drug Application (NDA) Filing For Akten�

Mon, 02 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

BUFFALO GROVE, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Akorn, Inc. (NASDAQ: AKRX) today announced the filing of NDA 22-221 for Akten� Ophthalmic Gel 3.5%, a topical, ocular anesthetic formulation. Based on the pre-NDA meeting April 25, 2007 with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the dose and the overall structure of the NDA submission was finalized. The NDA was filed after a 209 randomized patient, placebo controlled clinical trial was conducted, which subsequently met the primary endpoints in all three dosing arms. Akten� is projected to be launched in the first half of 2008.

Surgeon Offers Advice On How To Select Patients For Multifocal IOLs

Mon, 02 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT

SIENA, Italy - In selecting candidates for multifocal IOLs, surgeons must be accurate in evaluating objective and subjective outcome criteria. They should also be aware that there is an element of unpredictability in the complex interaction of physiological, psychological and neuronal factors that determine the success of these implants.

New: 9-0 Polypropylene Sutures From FCI Ophthalmics

Wed, 20 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

FCI Ophthalmics, Inc. is introducing non-absorbable 9-0 polypropylene surgical sutures.

Marco, the Leader in Vision Diagnostics�, Introduces the Latest Advancement in LCD Acuity Chart System with the Addition of the SC-2000.

Tue, 12 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

JACKSONVILLE, FL-On May 22, 2007, Marco announced the introduction of the SC-2000 to their product line of automated acuity instruments. The Marco SC-2000 LCD Acuity Chart System combines all of the key elements of advanced clinical refractions and automated LCD technology. A dedicated refracting device with an extreme emphasis on precise visual acuities and impressive visual aesthetics, the SC-2000 utilizes a high resolution 19-inch LCD screen for high performance acuity presentations.

Toric IOLs Offer Better Precision Over Relaxing Incisions for Astigmatism Correction

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Toric IOLs offer slightly better precision and accuracy for correcting astigmatism compared with relaxing incisions, according to two surgeons speaking here at the Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology meeting.

Scientists Plan Stem Cell Cure for Blindness

Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

LONDON (Reuters) - British scientists plan to use stem cells to cure a common form of blindness, with the first patients receiving test treatment in five years. The pioneering project, launched on Tuesday, aims to repair damaged retinas with cells derived from human embryonic stem cells. Its backers say it involves simple surgery that could one day become as routine as cataract operations.

ASCRS Members Adopting Latest Refractive Advances, Survey Finds

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

SAN DIEGO - U.S. refractive surgeons are increasingly adopting the latest advances in surgical techniques and technology, according to a 2006 survey of members of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.

NJ Ophthalmologist Performs State's First Revolutionary Crystalens(R)

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

MEDFORD, N.J., May 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr. Varunan Sivalingam (Dr. Siv) of Medford, NJ is the first ophthalmologist in New Jersey to have performed cataract surgery by implanting the revolutionary - and only FDA approved lens - crystalens(R). This relatively new procedure duplicates the eye's natural focusing mechanism and provides 24-hour-a-day full range of distance, intermediate and near.

Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc. Ships its 500th VISUCAM PRO NM System in the United States

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc. today announced installation of its 500th VISUCAM PRO NM non-mydriatic fundus camera at the Indiana University School of Optometry's Indianapolis Eye Care Center. Designed for routine clinical use, the compact VISUCAM PRO NM offers clinicians enhanced fundus visualization and documentation, and is credited for setting the standard in non-mydriatic ophthalmic photography.

Volk Optical Colored Lens Rings

Thu, 31 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Mentor, Ohio - Volk Optical, the leader in aspheric optics, offers select styles of non-contact, diagnostic slit lamp and BIO lenses with colored rings for easy identification and organization.

Clinic To Weed Out Embryos With A Squint

Tue, 22 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Embryos are to be screened for a cosmetic defect for the first time in a British clinic. Doctors have been given permission to create a baby free from a genetic disorder which would have caused the child to have a severe squint. The Bridge Centre family clinic, in London, has been licensed to treat a businessman and his wife to create the baby. Both the businessman and his father suffer from the condition, which causes the eyes only to look downwards or sideways.

Pulfrich Phenomenon And Second-Eye Cataract Surgery

Mon, 21 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

There is increasing interest in the value and timing of second-eye cataract surgeries among government and second-party payers. This interest is fueled in part by the increase in the elderly patient population in the United States and around the world.

Statins May Cut Risk Of Cataracts By Half

Mon, 07 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Cholesterol-lowering "statin" drugs, such as Lipitor or Zocor, may protect the eyes as well as the heart. In a study of older adults, people who took statins had almost a 50 percent reduced risk of developing a cataract, a clouding of the lens of the eye.

Axial Growth Of The Eye Continues Well Into The Second Decade Of Life

Mon, 30 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Representing the Pediatric Clinical Committee, Edward Wilson, MD gave a talk at the ASCRS Symposium's "Hot Topics" session on Saturday, April 28th. His talk was entitled "Eye growth in second decade of life". There is growing interest in this issue coinciding with the use of mulitfocal IOLs in pediatric cataract patients. Any changes in axial length that would occur over time could have obvious potential for myopic shift in children and adolescents who have had lens exchange. So to investigate this issue, the authors evaluated 70 eyes and compared axial length data starting at an initial age of 10-18 yrs and continued until the cohort had reached 11.6 yrs to their early 20s. They found that axial lengths continue to change all through the teenage years and early 20s. Interestingly, eyes grew slightly more in response to implantation of multifocal IOLs. These data have important implications for the use of multifocal IOLs in teenagers.

Pseudoexfoliation Has Important Implications For Cataract And Glaucoma Patients, Long-Term Study Shows

Mon, 30 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Pseudoexfoliation is a "ubiquitous disorder" that requires special care and attention in patients with both cataract and glaucoma, the results of large-scale retrospective study have found.

ASCRS Welcome Reception At SeaWorld Adventure Park

Sat, 28 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Medcompare joined hundreds of other meeting attendees at the ASCRS-ASOA welcoming reception at SeaWorld Adventure Park on Friday evening. This even was generously supported by grants from AMO and ASCRS-ASOA. The highlight for most was a performance by the famed Shamu and a subsequent fireworks display. The event afforded a relaxing environment for the reunion of colleagues and former classmates. Though we may have kept the beluga whales, polar bears, megellanic penguins, walruses, and sharks awake well past their bedtime, the chance to explore SeaWorld and learn about these animals from the highly experienced docents was a refreshing way to get the ASCRS sessions underway. Thank you to all who help put this event on.

AMO Releases Their Next Generation WhiteStar Signature™ Phaco System At ASCRS

Sat, 28 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics announced the launch of its WhiteStar Signature™ phacoemulsification system. The new system combines AMO's WhiteStar system with its Fusion™ dual pump fluidic system to improve chamber stability and reduce post-occlusion surge. The user interface has also been reworked to include a touch screen and help features. According to company representatives, this system provides the unsurpased chamber stability and significantly reduces post-occlusion surge. The dual pump responsiveness of the Fusion system has the performance of a venturi pump and the control of a peristaltic flow-based pump to provide a stable capsule environment. If you're at ASCRS, you can stop by AMO booths 941 and 1241 for a closer inspection on your own.

Diaton Eyelid Tonometer Launched At ASCRS By BiCOM Inc.,

Sat, 28 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Ever in search of new and interesting technologies, the Medcompare editorial team has uncovered a really unique instrument -- the Diaton transpalpebral tonometer. What makes this so innovative is that this hand held tonometer measures IOP through the eyelid without any perturbation of the cornea. It's perfect for post-operative measurements in LASIK and PRK procedures. No anesthetic drops are required, and device sterilization isn't an issue since there's no actual contact with the ocular surface. Drop by their booth at ASCRS to learn more (#315), or click on the link below to have a look at their website.

Study Finds Better Outcomes From Cataract Surgery Performed Within 6 Weeks

Wed, 25 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Patients who wait 6 months or longer before receiving cataract surgery may be at risk for poor visual outcomes compared with patients treated within 6 weeks of diagnosis, according to a study by Canadian researchers.

Cataract Surgery: Wait Times And Quality Of Life

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

When does the wait time for cataract surgery cross over from being inconvenient to affecting health and quality of life? Dr. William Hodge and colleagues report on their systematic review of studies that assessed the relation between wait times for cataract surgery and patient outcomes.

Allegretto Wave Eye-Q Granted Wavefront-Guided, Mixed Astigmatism Approvals

Wed, 18 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved wavefront-guided and mixed astigmatism indications for WaveLight's Allegretto Wave Eye-Q system, the company announced in a press release.

LASEK Effectively Treated Post-LASIK Myopic Regression In Study

Wed, 11 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Patients who experience myopic regression after undergoing LASIK can be successfully re-treated using LASEK, a small study shows. However, investigators found that attempting corrections of -2 D or more was associated with a significant rate of haze, the authors noted.

IOL Implantation Safe For Pediatric Uveitis Patients, Study Finds

Tue, 10 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Patients with pediatric uveitis, including uveitis associated with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, can safely undergo IOL implantation, a study found. The results suggest that IOL implantation should no longer be considered a contraindication in pediatric uveitis, the study authors noted.

Drug-Resistant Bacterial Infections Serious Complication After Corrective Eye Surgery

Tue, 10 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Drug-resistant bacteria can complicate treatment after many surgical procedures. In particular, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which has been found in many healthcare settings, can be a serious post-operative complication. In a study published in the April issue of the American Journal of Ophthalmology, researchers found MRSA infections in the eyes of 12 patients after refractive surgery.

Software Simulates Post-Op Phakic IOL Position

Mon, 09 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In an effort to improve the safety of phakic IOL positioning, researchers have developed imaging software that can preoperatively simulate the placement of the lenses. Testing showed good correlation between the simulated and actual position of the lens, according to one ophthalmologist.

Vision Screening Unnecessary For Asymptomatic Post-Transplant Patients, Study Finds

Wed, 28 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Routine vision screening may not be necessary for heart and lung transplant patients receiving high-dose immunosuppression, according to a study by researchers in London.

Posterior Segment Approach Effective For Posterior Polar Cataract In Study

Wed, 28 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A posterior segment approach to posterior polar cataract surgery, intended to pre-empt possible uncontrolled posterior capsular rupture, led to good visual outcomes despite some complications, a small study by researchers in England found.

Better IOL Exchange Results With Sulcus Or Capsular Bag Lens Placement

Wed, 28 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Secondary implantation of an IOL in either the sulcus or the capsular bag during the exchange of opacified Hydroview IOLs resulted in significantly better visual outcomes than placing the lens in the anterior chamber, a prospective study found.

Granada-Based Scientists Make The First Artificial Cornea Model Using Rabbit Stem Cells

Mon, 26 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Scientists of the research group called 'Ingenier�a Tisular' of the University of Granada have made the first artificial cornea model using stem cells of rabbit's sclerocorneal limbus. This result is a great advance due to the shortage of donors of this transparent epithelium located in the anterior segment of the eyeball that refracts the incoming light onto the retina. Moreover, these artificial corneas can be a tool for in vitro research into medicine permeability.

Dexamethasone Implant May Benefit Macular Edema Patients

Fri, 23 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A dexamethasone-releasing intravitreous drug delivery system improves visual acuity in patients with persistent macular edema.

Posterior Segment Complications Often Resolve With Single Vitreoretinal Surgery

Wed, 21 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A single vitreoretinal surgical intervention can often resolve post-cataract surgery posterior segment complications, although additional surgeries may be needed to stabilize outcomes, according to a study by researchers in Switzerland.

Phaco May Reduce IOP In Some Glaucoma Patients, Surgeon Says

Wed, 14 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Cataract surgery can be an effective option for treating some patients with glaucoma, according to a glaucoma specialist speaking here.

Goniosurgery Decreases Risk Of Childhood Aniridic Glaucoma, Surgeon Says

Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Goniosurgery helps hereditary aniridia patients reduce their risk of developing glaucoma secondary to progressive abnormalities of filtration angle structures, according to a surgeon speaking here.

Watch This Video: The ORBIS Mission Carries On After 25 Years

Tue, 06 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

As a nonprofit humanitarian organization, ORBIS International strives to eliminate avoidable blindness and restore sight in the developing world. ORBIS works closely with local communities, governments and hospitals to design programs that increase local skills, improve health care facilities and foster awareness of eye health. With their new wide-body DC-10, maintained by FedEx, and staffed with an international team of over 400 surgeons, the ORBIS flying eye hospital continues to spread practical medical knowledge to the practitioners of over 80 countries. Have a look at this short video to learn more.

Watch This Video: Mayo Clinic InTouch

Tue, 06 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Digital Cyclone has developed Mayo Clinic InTouch, an application for cellphones that stores all sorts of useful, everyday medical tips. It includes First Aid tips, a Symptom Checker and other tools, including an Emergency Room finder that will help you find nearby medical help when traveling. The application costs $2.99 per month and works on Verizon, AT&T/Cingular, and Sprint networks.

The video below is a demo of the application in use on a mobile phone. It starts off simple enough, toggling through windows of information, but then leads the user to helpful video content where applicable. Take a look...

This is a hint towards where publicly available medical information is heading. Expect to see even more "informed" patients in your practice.

Watch This Video: Removal Of Loa Loa Nematode In The Anterior Segment

Thu, 01 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT

For those of you with an interest in parasitology, this video is a must see. The editorial group here at Medcompare discovered it accidentally while trolling the internet for the latest information on surgical techniques in the anterior chamber.

This is not something you'll probably ever see in your practice. In fact, most of us have only seen this in textbooks or on a microscope slide. Between 2 and 13 million people are infected with the larvae of Loa loa, primarily in West Africa. Though this organism is more often associated with cutaneous larval migrans, it is, in rare occasions, seen in the eye.

This case, from Myanmar, is presented by Dr. Moe Kyaw. The removal of the parasite appears to have been complete.

This is another example of how the video education potential of the internet can help us all become more informed practioners. Curious to refresh yourself on the life-cycle of this parasite? Just have a look here.

-The Medcompare Editorial Team

Better Endothelial Cell Count Seen With Dispersive Vs. Cohesive Viscoelastic

Tue, 27 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A dispersive hyaluronate viscoelastic used during cataract surgery preserved more endothelial cells than cohesive viscoelastics, according to a study.

Those Who Once Were Blind Can Learn To See, Study Shows

Mon, 26 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Science Daily - How does the human brain "learn" to see? If the brain is deprived of visual input early in life, can it later learn to see at all?

Presbyopia Correction At The Time Of Cataract Surgery Poses Ethical Challenge

Mon, 26 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK - The use of presbyopia-correcting IOLs in conjunction with cataract surgery presents tremendous promise but at the same time one of the "greatest ethical challenges" ophthalmologists have faced in recent years, according to William F. Maloney, MD.

Watch This Video: Addressing The Problem Of Patient Compliance In Glaucoma Management

Wed, 21 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

This public service announcement is a fantastic example of the outreach efforts to enhance compliance in this patient population. The estimated social and financial impact of patients' failure to take their prescribed medications can be measured in discrete terms. But calculating the effect of non-compliance on the individual patient who isn't rigorously adherent to the treatment regime is more vague. Often the urgency is not obvious to them. Many ask themselves, "Why take this pill or use this eyedrop if I feel fine?"

This video shows the lurking dangers of untreated glaucoma in a comical but persuasive way.

We came across this video in our continuing effort to bring you the latest information regarding all aspects of eyecare; from emerging technologies, to new products and public health issues like this. By sharing it with you, we hope we brought a smile to your face while reinforcing the idea that monitoring patient compliance is crucial.

- The Medcompare Editorial Team

Mixing Multifocal IOLs Can Enhance Outcomes, Minimize Photic Phenomena, Surgeons Say

Mon, 12 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ATHENS - Combined implantation of different multifocal IOLs produces excellent distance, intermediate and near visual acuity, according to surgeons speaking here at the ESCRS Winter Meeting. Implanting combinations of IOLs also improves spectacle independence and can reduce photic phenomena, they said.

Carl Zeiss Meditec Announces FDA Clearance To Market VISUMAX Femtosecond Laser System

Mon, 12 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc. (CZM) reported that it has received U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) clearance to market the laser keratome applications of its VISUMAX femtosecond laser system. The company had previously projected that this clearance would be granted in the second half of 2007, and the more rapid achievement of this process is an important and welcomed milestone for the company.

Biosyntrx Announces Jack L. Holladay, MD, Leading Laser And Cataract Surgeon, Has Joined Scientific Advisory Board

Mon, 12 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ATHENS, Greece, Feb. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Biosyntrx, a research-based ophthalmic company providing nutraceutical products that support optimal eye and body health, today announced that leading cataract and laser surgeon Jack Holladay, MD, of Houston, world renowned for clinical research in optics, has joined the Biosyntrx Scientific Advisory Board.

International EyeCare Laser Center Acquires Third ALLEGRETTO WAVE System From WaveLight

Mon, 12 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--International EyeCare Laser Center announced today that it has installed its third ALLEGRETTO WAVE system at its Houston location. The ALLEGRETTO WAVE� Eye-Q, sold by WaveLight, Inc. (FWB:WLT), is the newest FDA-approved LASIK system in the United States. It delivers the fastest and most precise laser vision correction treatments available, featuring advanced Wavefront OptimizedT technology.

Measurement Of Corneal Hysteresis Provides Useful Information To Refractive Surgeons

Mon, 12 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ATHENS - Measurement of corneal hysteresis with the Reichert Ocular Response Analyzer provides useful information on the dynamic biomechanical properties of the cornea before and after refractive surgery, and it may have a role in predicting postoperative keratectasia, according to surgeons speaking here at the ESCRS Winter Meeting.

31-Year-Old Sea Lion Dies At Cleveland Zoo After Eye Surgery

Mon, 12 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

CLEVELAND - A 31-year-old California sea lion considered one of the oldest in captivity in North America has died, the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo said Tuesday.

Cataract Scheme 'expensive Over-Reaction' Say Doctors

Mon, 05 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

The independent sector treatment centre (ISTC) scheme for NHS cataract services was an expensive over-reaction to the need to increase rates of cataract surgery, say senior doctors in this week's BMJ.

Alcon's AcrySof� ReSTOR� Apodized Diffractive Aspheric Intraocular Lens Approved By FDA

Fri, 02 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon Laboratories, Inc., a subsidiary of Alcon, Inc. (NYSE:ACL), announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval of the AcrySof� ReSTOR� apodized diffractive aspheric intraocular lens for the visual correction of aphakia following cataract surgery in adult patients with and without presbyopia. The AcrySof� ReSTOR� apodized diffractive aspheric intraocular lens is the only FDA-approved presbyopia-correcting intraocular lens that incorporates aspheric optics into its design. Alcon will begin a phased commercial launch of this new lens after necessary consignment quantities are established, with full distribution expected by the middle of the year.

Is Using Lasers On Eye Gunk Worth It?

Wed, 31 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Some people call them floaters. Eye doctors call them "vitreous opacities." Emily Flynn called hers "a little fuzzball," and she flew halfway around the world to have it removed. After more than 100 pinpoint zaps from a laser beam during a half-hour visit to a northern Virginia office park, the fuzzball was gone, obliterated within the clear, gelatinous goo that fills the eyeball.

Bausch & Lomb's Retisert Drug Implant Receives Product Specific Billing Code And Medicare Reimbursement Rate

Mon, 29 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Jan. 24, 2007 - Bausch & Lomb announced today that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has established a product specific J-Code for the Retisert fluocinolone acetonide intravitreal implant 0.59 mg. The Retisert implant was approved as a single indication orphan drug by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of chronic noninfectious posterior segment uveitis, a sight threatening inflammatory disease and a major cause of blindness in patients 20-50 years of age.

Sloane Vision Center Acquires Newest Laser Vision Correction Platform In Mid-West

Mon, 29 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sloane Vision Center announced today that it is the first LASIK institution in the Mid-West US to acquire the new ALLEGRETTO WAVE� Eye-Q system, sold by WaveLight, Inc. Featuring advanced Wavefront OptimizedT technology that has been available at Sloane Vision Center for more than three years, this next generation platform provides the fastest LASIK treatments available today.

CMS Ruling Could Make STAAR Surgical Company Astigmatism-Correcting Lens More Accessible To Medicare Patients

Mon, 29 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

MONROVIA, Calif., Jan. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- STAAR Surgical Company (NASDAQ:STAA) today announced that it believes a new ruling by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), which allows cataract patients covered by Medicare to choose a lens that also corrects astigmatism, will include STAAR's Toric Intraocular Lens.

Visiogen, Inc. Receives FDA Approval To Expand Its U.S. Clinical Trial

Wed, 17 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Visiogen, Inc. of Irvine, California, announced it has received approval from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for full expansion of its Phase III U.S. clinical trial for its Synchrony� dual optic accommodating intraocular lens.

Bausch & Lomb Announces Strategic Alliance With AcuFocus For Presbyopic Correction Technology

Mon, 15 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

ROCHESTER, N.Y. - Bausch & Lomb announced today that it has made an equity investment in - and secured an exclusive option to purchase - AcuFocus, Inc., a privately held company located in Irvine, California that is developing corneal inlay technology for the treatment of presbyopia. The announcement was made at the Hawaiian Eye 2007 Meeting held on Kauai, Hawaii and attended by several hundred ophthalmic surgeons.

Researchers From Johns Hopkins University, Wilmer Eye Institute Report On Findings In Life Sciences

Fri, 12 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A new study, "Microkeratome versus femtosecond laser predissection of corneal grafts for anterior and posterior lamellar keratoplasty," is now available. In this recent article published in the journal Cornea, scientists in the United States conducted a study "To compare 2 different techniques for predissection of human anterior and posterior lamellar corneal grafts for eye bank storage. A mechanical microkeratome (group 1, N=5) and a femtosecond laser (group 2, N=5) were used to dissect intended 350-microm-deep lamellar planes in deepithelialized donor corneas mounted on an artificial anterior chamber."

Vitamin Cocktail Urged To Battle Cataracts

Fri, 12 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A cocktail of vitamin supplements that delay the development of cataracts could save the Canadian health-care system as much as $1.5 billion, a health sciences professor at the University of Western Ontario says.

New Study Challenges 'Critical Period' In Childhood Vision Development

Thu, 04 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Understanding how the human brain learns to perceive objects is one of the ultimate challenges in neuroscience. In 2003, Pawan Sinha, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, launched an initiative with the hopes of shedding some light on the acquisition of visual skills. The goal of his "Project Prakash" is to find, treat, and study congenitally blind children in India. A unique case study that resulted from this project appears in the December 2006 issue of Psychological Science.

Bascom Palmer, Prestige Growing

Mon, 01 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT

PALM BEACH GARDENS - In the spacious, wood-paneled laser suite at the new, $22 million Bascom Palmer Eye Institute of the Palm Beaches, Dr. Terry O'Brien centers a tiny cone on Bob Trenschel's right pupil.

Infants Treated With Cataract Surgery Have Good Outcomes

Thu, 28 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Infants who undergo cataract surgery with primary lens implantation have visual outcomes that are encouraging compared with published data for children treated at an older age, findings from a small study suggest.

Drugs, Prophylaxis Reduce The Incidence Of Infection After Cataract Surgery

Wed, 20 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The rates of infection after cataract surgery can be reduced by a meticulous approach to controlling the microbes on the ocular surface and in the eye. The use of fourth-generation fluoroquinolones can better control the microorganisms that have grown resistant to previous generations of the drugs.

Staple Shot Into Eye May Leave Pupil Blind

Fri, 15 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A 14-year-old Buffalo boy could be blind in his right eye after a classmate fired a steel staple at him with a rubber-band sling-shot, tearing a half-inch gash into his eyeball, his father said.

Bascom Palmer Eye Institute Holds Dedication Ceremony

Fri, 15 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. -- Florida Governor-Elect Charlie Crist joined more than 600 supporters of the University of Miami's Bascom Palmer Eye Institute at Palm BeachGardens for a "Celebration of Vision" on Dec. 8, dedicating the nation's most technologically advanced eye care center.

Extended Wear Contacts Or LASIK: Is One Clearly Superior To The Other?

Fri, 15 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

/24-7PressRelease/ - December 13, 2006 - Andessa Schroder, 24, remembers well how she was the first child in her elementary school class who had to wear glasses. "I was 10 years old," she said. "At the time, it was really embarrassing."

'Tis The Season For Good Vision And Cheer

Fri, 15 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Laser Vision Correction Surgery Becoming the Gift of Choice for the Holidays as People Across the Country Purchase the Procedure for Family and Friends

Navy Medicine Takes First Step With LASIK For Aviators

Fri, 15 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Corrective eye surgery has taken a big step into the final frontier of Naval Aviation, Nov. 8. For the first time, as part of a new program, the vision correction surgery LASIK has been performed on an aviator. Previously, aviators have been ineligible for this surgery.

UCSF Ophthalmologist Gets Lifetime Achievement Award

Mon, 04 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Richard L. Abbott, MD, the Thomas W. Boyden Health Sciences Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at UCSF and research associate at the Francis I. Proctor Foundation, has received the American Academy of Ophthalmology's Lifetime Achievement Honor Award.

Intacs Stabilized Ectasia In Post-LASIK Corneas For 5 Years

Wed, 29 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Corneas that developed ectasia after LASIK were stabilized for at least 5 years with the use of intrastromal corneal ring implants, according to a recently published small, retrospective study.

Dr. Joseph Dello Russo Of Dello Russo LaserVision Of New York Contributes To Milestone One Millionth Blade-Free LASIK Procedures

Tue, 28 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Dr. Joseph Dello Russo of LaserVision of New York is among a select number of ophthalmic surgeons whose work has contributed toward the milestone one millionth all-laser LASIK procedure using the IntraLase Method(TM), confirming the demand for IntraLase(R) FS laser technology, according to IntraLase Corp. . Dr. Dello Russo is one of the first surgeons in the entire country to offer blade-free LASIK with the IntraLase Method, and has completed nearly 20,000 LASIK no-blade procedures to date. He has completed a total of 50,000 laser surgeries since 1991.

Fuchs' Dystrophy

Tue, 21 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Fuchs' Dystrophy is a genetic disease of the corneal endothelium (a thin cell lining) inside the surface of the eye. In patients with this disease, the endothelium does not work well and the cornea can begin to swell as it becomes increasing difficult for the dysfunctional cell lining to pump normally flowing water out of the cornea.

Study: LASIK Lasts Longer Than Originally Thought

Fri, 17 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A new study found that LASIK surgery may last longer than previously thought. The research from the American Academy of Ophthalmology studied people who had the corrective surgery in 1996. Researchers found that LASIK keeps on working. The vast majority of people who had vision correction 10 years ago continued to do well.

Management Techiniques Lower Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome Complication Rate: Presented At AAO

Fri, 17 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The rate of intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) in patients undergoing cataract extraction procedures, can be reduced

Phase II Post-Cataract Eye Inflammation Trial Is Fully Recruited

Fri, 17 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Evolutec (AIM: EVC), the biopharmaceutical company developing novel products for the treatment of allergic, inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, announces that its proof of concept Phase II trial with its lead compound, rEV131, against inflammation following cataract surgery is fully recruited.

Cholecystokinin Octapeptide-8 May Be A Useful Therapeutic Agent Against Diabetic Cataract

Fri, 17 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

According to a study from People's Republic Of China, "Cataracts is considered be formed because of an abnormal glucose metabolic pathway or oxidative stress. We explored the damaging role of ONOO- and antagonism of cholecystokinin octapeptide-8 (CCK-8) in diabetic cataractal rat lenses."

Baffling Disease Shuts Eye Centre

Wed, 15 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A mysterious post-operative eye disease that swept across the continent has shut down one of Toronto's busiest cataract surgery centres.

New Genetic Test Predicts Risk Of Metastasis In Patients With Deadly Eye Cancer

Tue, 14 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Imagine being diagnosed with eye cancer - but your doctor can't tell whether you have the aggressive type that will swiftly spread, causing blindness and death in as early as a year.

Technology Making LASIK Safer For Those Who Have Had Previous Eye Surgery

Tue, 14 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Rapidly improving technology is making LASIK safer, as well as widening the scope of its potential benefits, according to A. John Kanellopoulous, MD, who taught an instructional course today at the American Academy of Ophthalmology's 2006 Joint Meeting.

Artificial Cornea Offers Better Results For Infants, Some Blind Patients

Mon, 13 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Infants and adults who are blind due to a cloudy or damaged cornea are seeing some remarkable results thanks to a new version of an artificial implant that takes the place of the cornea, the clear covering of the eye that serves as our window on the world.

Experts: Laser Eye Surgery Safe

Mon, 13 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Both LASIK and PRK eye procedures are safe and effective, according to results of a 10-year study presented today at the Academy of Ophthalmology's 2006 Joint Meeting.

IRIDEX Unveils Two New Laser Systems At The American Academy Of Ophthalmology

Thu, 09 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

IRIDEX Corporation today announced the introduction of two new ophthalmic laser systems and six new disposable products at the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) being held in Las Vegas, NV on November 10-14, 2006.

NearVision CK Shows Benefits For Post-LASIK Baby Boomers With 'Aging Eyes'

Thu, 09 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

During the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) meeting, to be held in Las Vegas from Nov. 11-14, ophthalmic device manufacturer Refractec, Inc., today announced promising interim results for evaluating the effectiveness of NearVision CK (conductive keratoplasty) for post-LASIK patients will be presented. Three-month clinical data shows post-LASIK baby boomers achieved improved vision after NearVision CK.

Transplanted Photoreceptor Precursor Cells Restore Visual Function In Mice With Retinal Degeneration

Wed, 08 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Scientists have successfully transplanted light-sensing cells called photoreceptors directly into the eyes of mice and restored their visual function.

LASIK Information And Education Website Receives Health On The Net Foundation (HON) Accreditation - Www.seewithlasik.com

Mon, 06 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

North Andover, MA, October 30, 2006 --(PR.COM)-- LASIK information and education website receives Health On the Net Foundation (HON) Accreditation. http://www.seewithlasik.com

Introducing Laser Corneal Transplantation - The Procedure's Greatest Advancement In 50 Years - With IntraLase-Enabled Keratoplasty - Video Available

Mon, 06 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- IntraLase(R) Corp. (NASDAQ: ILSE) today announced the worldwide launch of its IntraLase-Enabled Keratoplasty(TM) (IEK(TM)) technology, using the company's proprietary femtosecond laser to potentially make corneal transplant surgery safer, with faster healing and better visual results, for patients suffering from severe corneal disease or damage. For the first time, patients around the globe will be able to choose the laser technology that represents the greatest advancement in the procedure in more than 50 years.

Laser Treatment Not Effective In Preventing Vision Loss For People With Early, Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Mon, 06 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

According to a study that appears in the November 2006 issue of the journal Ophthalmology, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine and 21 other clinical centers have found that low-intensity laser treatment - thought to be potentially beneficial in slowing or preventing the loss of vision from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) - is ineffective in preventing complications of AMD or vision loss. This is the major conclusion of the Complications of Age-Related Macular Degeneration Prevention Trial (CAPT) -a research study supported by grants from the National Eye Institute (NEI) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

29th Wilmer Eye/ASCRS Current Concepts In Ophthalmology Course Scheduled For Jamaica

Mon, 06 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) and the Wilmer Eye Institute of Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine today announced the Wilmer Eye/ASCRS Current Concepts in Ophthalmology course, scheduled for February 2-5, 2007 at the Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall Resort in St. James, Jamaica.

Laser Treatment Does Not Prevent Vision Loss For People With Early Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Wed, 01 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

An extensive NIH-supported study has found that low-intensity laser treatment, thought to be possibly beneficial in slowing or preventing the loss of vision from age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is ineffective in preventing complications of AMD or loss of vision.

DSG And Clinical Research Consultants, Inc. Develop A Global Registry For Corneal Ectasia Under Sponsorship Of ASCRS

Wed, 01 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

SG, Inc., a leading provider of electronic data capture software for clinical trials, and Clinical Research Consultants, Inc. (CRC), today announced that they have designed and are hosting the International Ectasia Registry sponsored by the American Society for Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) and developed under the direction of R. Doyle Stulting, M.D., Ph.D., Professor of Ophthalmology, Emory University and Chair of the ASCRS Refractive Clinical Committee.

ReSTOR Lens Offers Better Results In Cataract Surgery

Mon, 30 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

For the past year and a half, Collom and Carney Eye Institute has been offering their patients the new ReSTOR intraocular lens (IOL). This state-of-the-art IOL is allowing patients to take advantage of the latest technology in cataract surgery. The ReSTOR lens greatly reduces dependency on glasses for both distance and near vision.

BIO Exams Evolve With Volk Digital Series Lenses

Mon, 23 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Mentor, Ohio (October 23, 2006) - Volk Optical has released two new lenses in its 3rd generation Digital Series, specifically designed for use in Binocular Indirect Ophthalmoscopy (BIO) examinations. The image quality of the Digital ClearField and Digital ClearMag lenses reaches a level previously unattainable during a BIO exam, resulting in increased general diagnostic capability with a shorter exam time.

Renowned Ophthalmologist Richard L. Lindstrom Joins Refractec Board Of Directors

Thu, 19 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Ophthalmic device manufacturer Refractec, Inc. today announced the appointment of Richard L. Lindstrom, M.D., an internationally recognized leader in corneal, cataract and refractive surgery and founder and attending surgeon of Minnesota Eye Consultants, to its 6-member board of directors.

Limited Vision Doesn't Deter Ross In 24-Hour Races

Thu, 19 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

While the notion of an athlete making a career of pushing pedals comes as little surprise in this day and age, it's the manner in which Ross has gone about it that provides the biggest shock. Unbeknownst to the majority of his competitors, Ross has raced through the darkness for the past eight years legally blind in his left eye and night-blind in both eyes. After nine surgeries ranging from an in-ocular lens implant in his left eye to a recent Lasik procedure, the vision has improved to "about 20/80," Ross said. He intends to follow up with Lasik surgery on his right eye in the near future.

NIDEK Gains FDA Approval For Hyperopia And Hyperopic Astigmatism Module On EC-5000 Excimer Laser

Tue, 17 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

NIDEK, Inc. a global leader in laser and diagnostic instrumentation for the optical and eye care industry, announced today that the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its EC-5000 Excimer Laser for the treatment of hyperopia and hyperopic astigmatism for use in LASIK.

Study: LASIK Surpasses Contact Lens In Overall Long-Term Safety

Tue, 17 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Dr. Joseph Dello Russo announced the results of a study that indicates for the first time that LASIK is safer than contact lenses. According to a study published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, October 2006 edition, researchers have confirmed that LASIK surgery as performed this year is safer than contact lens use. Sight threatening infections from contact lens use occur in 1 in 2,000 contact lens wearers, whereas the study confirms that only one in 10,000 patients risk significant vision loss due to complications from LASIK, making LASIK the safest elective procedure being performed today.

Will Cataract Surgery Eliminate Glasses?

Wed, 11 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Improvements in the lenses implanted in the eye during cataract surgery have led to a new surgical option for treating people with farsightedness and other refractive-lens exchange surgery.

Innovative Surgery Corrects Vision In Kids With Neurological Disorders

Tue, 10 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Children with cerebral palsy and other neurological problems often have extremely poor eyesight. Their ability to read, pick up objects and "see" the world is so impaired and complicated to treat that many go untreated, even though they may be legally blind.

OHSU Eye Doctor Says Laser Surgery Safer Than Contacts

Mon, 09 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Traditional assumptions have held that contact lenses are safer than laser surgery to correct vision problems. Now, an Oregon Health & Science University Casey Eye Institute physician, comparing data from several recent studies, has found that belief may not be true.

FDA Approves New Label For VYTORIN� (ezetimibe/simvastatin)

Fri, 06 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

WHITEHOUSE STATION, N.J. & KENILWORTH, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Merck/Schering-Plough Pharmaceuticals announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the inclusion of new data in the product label that showed VYTORIN� (ezetimibe/simvastatin) was more effective than Crestor� (rosuvastatin) at lowering LDL "bad" cholesterol at all doses compared, ranging from the usual recommended starting doses (VYTORIN 10/20 mg, Crestor 10 mg) to the maximum approved doses (VYTORIN 10/80 mg, Crestor 40 mg).

Restoring Sight For Tsunami Affected People In Sri Lanka

Fri, 06 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Seventeen year old school girl Shasikala Dilrukshi sits engrossed in a book on the verandah of her home. A simple scenario played out everyday all over the world. But one that for Shasikala was unthinkable only two months ago.

Texas Eye Surgeon Reports Results Of Cataract Surgery With Restor(R) Lens Implants

Fri, 06 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Houston, Texas (PRWEB) September 28, 2006 -- Bernard Milstein, M.D., a leading cataract and refractive surgeon serving greater Houston, reports that cataract surgery and lens replacement surgery using the ReSTOR(R) Lens Implant at The Eye Clinic of Texas, has produced excellent clinical results and patient satisfaction. "After having now used the ReSTOR(R) Lens for more than 12 months, our cataract patients are telling us that their goal of being able to see at far and near without having to depend on glasses or corrective lenses after their cataract surgery has been achieved," said Dr. Milstein.

Volk's Disposables Number One Choice At Top Ranked Wills Eye Hospital

Wed, 04 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Mentor, Ohio (October 4, 2006) - The program consistently ranked as one of the top three ophthalmology centers in the United States by U.S. News & World Report has chosen the Chalam Flat SSV� STERL� Disposable Vitrectomy Lens from Volk Optical for use in vitrectomy procedures. The direct image lens provides excellent visualization with a time-saving self-stabilizing vitrectomy (SSV) design and disposable convenience.

Ziemer's Femto Laser Changes Its Name

Fri, 29 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

(Port, Switzerland; 22 September 2006) - Originally launched in October 2005 by Ziemer Group as the DA VINCI Femtosecond Surgical Laser, the company is now announcing a name change for its flagship product. Due to trademark issues, the former DA VINCI will as of immediately be marketed as "Ziemer's Femto" Laser Device, model number LDV-3.

Kansas Doctor Tests Brain Retraining For Nearsightedness

Wed, 20 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A Kansas doctor is conducting a clinical trial on a new procedure to correct nearsightedness that doesn't involve glasses, contacts, drugs or laser surgery.

Army Surgeon Makes History With Corneal Transplant

Wed, 20 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan (Army News Service, Sept. 15, 2006)- Ophthalmologist Dr. (Maj.) Buck Rogers made history Aug. 21 when he performed the first corneal transplant in Afghanistan on an Afghan soldier at the 14th Combat Support Hospital on Bagram Airfield.

Doctors Making A Difference

Wed, 20 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

(PRWEB) September 14, 2006 -- Dr. Glenn Kawesch, one of the top refractive surgeons in the world, has been hailed as a "miracle" doctor, returning vision to thousands of people from around the world who never dreamed they would be able to see clearly without their glasses or contacts.

Artificial Cornea Is In Sight, Thanks To Biomimetic Hydrogels

Wed, 20 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

On Sept. 11 in San Francisco at the annual meeting of the American Chemical Society, chemical engineer Curtis W. Frank presented a novel biomimetic material that's finding its way into artificial corneas. It's a hydrogel, or polymer that holds a lot of water. That material may promise a new view for at least 10 million people worldwide who are blind due to damaged or diseased corneas or many millions more who are nearsighted or farsighted due to misshapen corneas.

IntraLase Eyes Share Gains In Laser Surgery

Wed, 20 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

CHICAGO (Reuters) - A blade-free method of laser vision correction surgery is rapidly gaining popularity despite its higher cost, the chief executive of IntraLase Corp. (ILSE.O: Quote, Profile, Research), maker of the technology, said on Monday.

ChristiaNet.com Launches Directory Of Lasik Vision Correction Articles

Wed, 20 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Houston, TX (PRWEB) September 19, 2006 -- ChristiaNet.com (http://www.christianet.com), the world's largest Christian portal with twelve million monthly page loads, has just launched a directory of health related articles that include information about Lasik vision correction. Since 1995, laser eye surgery has become a popular procedure that is performed on an estimated one million eyes per year. "We want to keep the public informed," explained ChristiaNet's president, Bill Cooper, "Especially when a magnitude of people are seeking surgical procedures which are optional. Our research department discovered many facts about laser eye surgery and we want anyone considering this procedure to get an education before making a decision to proceed." (http://www.christianet.com/lasiksurgery/)

President Carter Urges Americans To Fight Blindness

Wed, 20 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

OAK BROOK, Ill., Sept. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Every five seconds someone in our world goes blind. In the next 15 years the number of blind people could double to 75 million. Yet 80 percent of blindness is preventable. On average, just $6 can save one person from a life of blindness.

Ophthalmologists Improve LASIK

Wed, 20 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Ophthalmologists have developed a formula that slashes by nearly two-thirds the likelihood that patients will need repeat visits to an eye surgeon to adjust their vision after their initial LASIK visit. That's because the formula makes it more likely that surgeons will get it right the first time.

Moria Epi-KT Achieves Visual Outcomes Superior To Wavefront-Guided PRK And Equivalent To Wavefront-Guided IntraLasik. Procedure Addresses Concerns About Potential Risks Of Ectasia With LASIK Procedures.

Wed, 20 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

London - At the 5th International Congress on Epi-LASIK, LASEK, and Advanced Surface Ablation, H. L. "Rick" Milne, MD of Columbia, South Carolina, presented his experience in using the Moria Epi-KT to perform Advanced Surface Treatment, a variation Epi-LASIK, in which the epithelial sheet is discarded.

Posterior Chamber Intraocular Lens Implantation In Infants Is A Safe Procedure

Wed, 20 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Intraocular lens implantation in infants less than 1 year of age is generally a safe procedure, but final acuities can be disappointing. Researchers in England conducted a study "to document the long term outcome of congenital cataract surgery with primary posterior chamber (PC) lens implantation in the first year of life.

Doctors Cut Repeat LASIK Visits Dramatically

Mon, 18 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

An Artificial Cornea Is In Sight, Thanks To Biomimetic Hydrogels

Mon, 11 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

If eyes are "the windows of the soul," corneas are the panes in those windows. They shield the eye from dust and germs. They also act as the eye's outermost lens, contributing up to 75 percent of the eye's focusing power.

HCM City Association Funds Eye Operations For 5,000 Cambodians

Mon, 11 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

HCM CITY - The HCM city's Sponsors' Association for Poor Patients has funded more than 5,000 eye operations for indigent Cambodians as part of the city's aid programme to the neighbouring country.

Advanced Medical Optics Launches Enhanced TECNIS� Silicone IOL

Sat, 09 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) , a global ophthalmic surgical and eye care products company, announced today from the XXIV Congress of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) the launch of the TECNIS(R) CL intraocular lens (IOL). The TECNIS(R) CL IOL is the latest advance to the TECNIS(R) silicone IOL.

UTEK And Advanced Refractive Technologies, Inc. Announce Renewal Of Strategic Alliance

Fri, 25 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

TAMPA, Fla. & SAN CLEMENTE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 22, 2006--UTEK Corporation (AMEX:UTK) (LSE-AIM:UTK), a specialty finance company focused on technology transfer, and Advanced Refractive Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB:ARFR), a medical device company focused on the development and marketing of innovative ophthalmic applications, announced today that they have renewed their strategic alliance agreement.

IntraLase Offers Free Access To Laser Corneal Transplantation For Patients Suffering From Vision Loss Due To Fusarium Keratitis

Fri, 25 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

IntraLase Corp. (Nasdaq:ILSE) announced today that patients requiring corneal transplant surgery resulting from the recent outbreak of Fusarium keratitis eye infection can take advantage of the benefits of corneal transplantation with the advanced IntraLase(R) FS Laser free of charge.

Cataract Treatment A Luxury Many Can Now Afford

Fri, 25 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

FRIDAY, Aug. 18 (HealthDay News) -- The single biggest advance this year in the treatment of cataracts has come not from science but from the U.S. bureaucracy.

Carl Zeiss Meditec Receives FDA Clearance For MEL 80 Excimer Laser Systems

Wed, 23 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc., one of the world's premier medical technology companies, today announced the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared the MEL 80T Excimer Laser System for vision correction eye surgery.

Patient Advocacy Issues Advisory To Prostrate Patients Considering Lasik Alternative

Tue, 22 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Patients who are using Flomax for treatment of prostate enlargement and are considering Refractive Lens Exchange -- an alternative to Lasik laser eye surgery -- need to notify their eye doctor they are taking or have taken the drug, according to the Council for Refractive Surgery Quality Assurance (CRSQA, www.USAEyes.org ), a nonprofit patient advocacy.

Medical Societies Issue Advisory To Cataract Patients Taking Prostate Medications

Tue, 22 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS), the American Academy of Ophthalmology (Academy) and the American Urological Association (AUA) today advised patients taking certain drugs to treat prostate enlargement to inform their eye surgeon about these medications before undergoing eye surgery. These drugs can potentially cause complications during cataract surgery. However, preliminary results of a new study found that these patients can still have successful surgery if their surgeon knows they are taking or have taken these drugs and alters the surgical technique.

Drug Linked To Cataract Surgery Problems

Tue, 22 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Patients taking a widely prescribed prostate drug should alert their eye doctors before undergoing cataract surgery to avoid complications, several medical groups said Tuesday.

Advanced Refractive Achieves Early Milestone

Thu, 17 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Ocular Therapeutics Incorporated, a wholly owned subsidiary of Advanced Refractive Technologies, (ART), announces that an important early milestone in its development of a treatment for age related macular degeneration (AMD) has been achieved.

Cataracts Don't Have To Dim One's View Of Life

Tue, 15 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

August is Cataract Awareness Month, and the American Academy of Ophthalmology, as well as ophthalmologists across the country, want people to know that they don't have to live with vision loss from cataracts.

Powering Up New IOL Calculations For Post Excimer Laser Patients

Mon, 14 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

An increasingly common breed of cataract patient is populating most offices-those who have undergone previous laser refractive surgery

Progress On A "Bio-Glue" For Cornea Surgery

Fri, 11 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Scientists are reporting an advance toward development of a long-sought alternative to the traditional ways of closing incisions in the eye after cataract surgery. Mark W. Grinstaff and colleagues have synthesized and tested a new biocompatible adhesive gel that seals eye incisions quickly with the strength to keep the incisions sealed. Their report is scheduled for the current [July 19] issue of ACS Bioconjugate Chemistry.

Visian ICL An Alternative To LASIK Surgery To Correct Vision Permanently

Fri, 11 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

July 28, 2006 Seattle, WA -- Almost 30 million Americans wear contact lenses. LASIK surgery has been a boon for people tired of wearing glasses or contacts. But not everyone is a good candidate for LASIK, especially those with severe near-sightedness. Now there's another option for these people

LASIK Expert Dr. James Salz Provides Strategies In July Issue Of The Review Of Ophthalmology For Doctors To Better Screen Prospective Patients For Laser Eye Surgery

Fri, 11 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) August 10, 2006 -- Dr. James Salz (www.drsalz.com) was a featured contributor among several doctors featured in an article entitled "Screening for LASIK: Tips and Techniques: Surgeons share helpful strategies for identifying which patients are good candidates -- and which could be trouble." This article, was featured in the July 24, 2006 issue of Review of Ophthalmology" (Vol. 6, Issue 28) and was written by written by Senior Editor Christopher Kent.

Advanced Surface Ablation: Future Of Refractive Surgery?

Wed, 09 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced surface ablations, such as LASEK and Epi-LASIK, are ideal refractive procedures for challenging cases, such as patients with thin corneas and high myopia, and are even better for routine cases, according to Richard W. Yee, MD.

Numerous Risk Factors Found For Corneal Ectasia After LASIK

Wed, 09 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Knowledge about risk factors for corneal ectasia after LASIK is increasing, and some of the risk factors may be very subtle. R. Doyle Stulting, MD, PhD, described some of these risks factors during Cornea Day 2006 at the annual meeting of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu Launches 100,000 Cataract Operations In 100 Days

Tue, 08 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

"We can really do something to change the world," says Archbishop Desmond Tutu. "I think not being able to see is one of the most debilitating disabilities in our world today," Archbishop Tutu said at the launching of Christian Blind Mission's worldwide "100,000 Miracles" campaign at an International Press Conference held today at Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa.

Ocular Rigidity May Affect Corneal Biomechanics After Refractive Surgery

Tue, 08 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

During the past year, researchers have been diligently studying how refractive surgery affects corneal biomechanics. One of the major factors that affect the biomechanics of the cornea is total eye rigidity, according to Ioannis G. Pallikaris, MD, who spoke during the Innovator's Session at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery annual meeting.

Fighting Ocular Infections; A Diagnosis And Treatment Primer For TASS

Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Physicians struggle to combat a rash of toxic anterior segment syndrome (TASS) cases that are occurring more frequently after cataract surgery.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu To Launch Global War On Cataract Blindness

Thu, 27 Jul 2006 00:00:00 GMT

"We are delighted that Archbishop Desmond Tutu is endorsing Christian Blind Mission International's worldwide '100,000 Miracles' campaign," says Alan Harkey, President of Christian Blind Mission International USA.

Smokeless Tobacco Use Increases Cataract Risk

Tue, 25 Jul 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Using snuff or chewing tobacco is associated with an increased likelihood of developing cataracts, Indian researchers report. Dr. Prema Raju of the Vision Research Foundation, Sankar Netralaya, Chennai and colleagues evaluated tobacco use among 3924 adults from rural areas. In all, 1705 used tobacco in various forms.

Global Ophthalmology Market Sets Sights On $13 Billion By 2008

Thu, 29 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT

With fierce competition in the refractive vision correction market and rapidly increasing rates of eye disease creating an accelerated demand for newer, better, and more affordable therapeutics, the market for ocular remedies is experiencing hefty growth, with overall global revenues expected to rise from $7.8 billion in 2004 to greater than $13 billion in 2008.

NIDEK -- Innovatively Superior Auto Ref/Keratometer ARK-530A/ARK-510A And Auto Refractometer AR-330A/AR-310A Ready For Market

Thu, 22 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT

NIDEK Co., LTD. today announced the improvement and introduction of the Auto Ref/Keratometer ARK-530A/ARK-510A and Auto Refractometer AR-330A/AR-310A; the "new standard" in ophthalmic and optometric diagnostics with superior precision and intelligent design.

NIDEK Launches The Next Generation In Quality Vision Assessment With The OPD-Scan II ARK-10000 For More Advanced Optical Diagnostics

Thu, 22 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT

NIDEK Co., Ltd., a global leader in optical and eye care diagnostic instrumentation, announced today the launch of the next generation in total quality of vision assessment by introducing OPD-Scan II ARK-10000.

Growth Factor Changes After Diabetic Cataract Surgery Tied To Disease Progression

Wed, 21 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Changes in aqueous levels of certain angiogenic and antiangiogenic growth factors precede the progression of maculopathy following cataract removal in diabetics, according to a report in the British Journal of Ophthalmology for June. Macular edema, retinopathy progression, and iris neovascularization are common complications after diabetic cataract extraction that may stem from growth factor changes in the immediate postoperative period.

Statin Use Associated With Reduced Risk Of Common Type Of Cataract

Tue, 20 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The use of statins is linked with a lower incidence of nuclear cataract, the most common type of age-related cataract, according to a study in the June 21 issue of JAMA.

Perfect Vision Is Helping And Hurting Navy

Tue, 20 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT

BETHESDA, Md., June 17 - Almost every Thursday during the academic year, a bus carrying a dozen or so Naval Academy midshipmen leaves Annapolis for the 45-minute drive to Bethesda, where Navy doctors perform laser eye surgery on them, one after another, with assembly-line efficiency.

Three New Cataract Causing Genes Identified

Thu, 15 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A 30 year joint study by Indian, US and German scientists has led to the identification of three new cataract-causing inheritable genes, found to be confined to Indian families. According to a report by Press Trust of India, scientists at the Centre for Genetic Disorders of Guru Nanak Dev University, India, in association with researchers from the National Institute of Health, US and the Institute of Human Genetics in Berlin have discovered three genes causing Fan-Shaped, Cerulean and Sutural cataracts.

Researchers From Kurume University Detail New Studies And Findings

Fri, 09 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT

This trend article about Keio University is an immediate alert from NewsRx to identify developing directions of research. Study 1: Serum CXCL10 level may be useful in assessing the pathophysiology of the type 1 diabetes disease course.

ISTA Pharmaceuticals Is Initiating Phase III Clinical Trials Of A New Once-Daily Formulation Of XibromT For The Treatment Of Ocular Pain And Inflammation Following Cataract Surgery

Tue, 30 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. announced today that the Company is initiating two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multi-center Phase III clinical trials of a new proprietary once-daily formulation of Xibrom(TM) (bromfenac ophthalmic solution) for the treatment of pain and inflammation following cataract surgery. Twice-daily Xibrom(TM) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of ocular inflammation and reduction of ocular pain following cataract surgery.

Laser Surgeon's Patriotic Vision - Free Lasik Surgery For U.S. Combat Forces

Fri, 19 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

(PRWEB) May 17, 2006 -- There is little doubt that Dr. Joseph Dello Russo is among a handful of New York City medical personalities who've risen to near-cult status, in his case through the use of advertising and promotion.

Patient Safety Increasingly Reliant On RFID; Patient Safety One Of Many Applications RFID-Enabled By SkyeTek's Advanced Universal Reader Architecture (AURA™)

Fri, 19 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

WESTMINSTER, Colo. --(Business Wire)-- May 17, 2006 -- SkyeTek, the leading provider of embedded RFID reader technology and developer of ReaderWare(TM), today announced that more than 30 customers are using its technology in vital patient safety applications. By embedding SkyeTek's reader technology as a feature in their products, these companies are improving diagnosis reliability and point of care in areas such as laboratory analysis, mammograms, blood transfusions, medication delivery, prostate treatment, and LASIK eye surgery.

Advanced Refractive Technologies Licenses Innovative Cataract Detection Device

Wed, 10 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Refractive Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB:ARFRE), an ophthalmology development company focused on the development and marketing of innovative ophthalmic applications, announced today that it has acquired OptiMetrix Technologies, Inc., a subsidiary of UTEK Corporation, in a stock transaction.

Alcon Gains FDA Approval For LADAR6000(TM) Excimer Laser And Wavefront-Guided Hyperopia

Tue, 09 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE:ACL) announced today that the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its LADAR6000(TM) Excimer Laser with high speed ablation for use in LASIK and PRK refractive surgery.

ARVO: Bladeless And Conventional LASIK Surgery See Eye-To-Eye

Mon, 08 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., May 4 - It's cutting-edge technology without the cutting edge-a new approach to LASIK surgery. A vision-correction technique that replaces a mechanically guided knife blade with a laser produces equal results at six months to conventional LASIK surgery, reported vision researchers at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology here.

Jacqueline D. Griffiths, M.D., Travels To S. Korea And China To Lecture To Their Ophthalmology Societies On Epi-K Procedure

Mon, 08 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Reston, VA (PRWEB) April 24, 2006 -- Jacqueline D. Griffiths, M.D., Medical Director of NewView Laser Eye in Reston, Virginia, was invited to S. Korea and China to lecture to their Ophthalmology Societies about her clinical experience, outcomes, and recommendations with Epi-K Advanced Surface Treatment using Moria's Epi-keratome for LASER VISION CORRECTION. Dr. Griffiths began performing Epi-K in June 2005 and has become a leading expert on the procedure. She also lectured on Epi-K at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ASCRS) conference held in San Francisco in March 2006 to attending Ophthalmologists.

Twice-Daily Dosing Of Xibrom(TM) As Equivalent To Four Times A Day Of Other Treatments, Study

Mon, 08 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: ISTA) announced today the presentation of data from a physician- sponsored clinical trial designed to compare the efficacy of Xibrom(TM) (bromfenac ophthalmic solution) 0.09% with two topical non-steroidal anti- inflammatory solutions (NSAIDs) that were given four times a day for the treatment of acute pseudophakic cystoid macular edema (CME). Xibrom(TM) is a topical, twice-daily NSAID approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of ocular inflammation and reduction of pain following cataract surgery. The data were presented in a poster session during the 2006 Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) Annual Meeting, currently being held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Launch In 21 Countries Of World's First Preloaded IOL Injection System To Offer An Aspheric Optic Design Scheduled For May

Mon, 08 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

MONROVIA, Calif., May. 4 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- STAAR Surgical Company (Nasdaq: STAA), a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of minimally invasive ophthalmic products, today announced it has received CE Mark approval for its preloaded aspheric silicone IOL (intraocular lens). The approval will allow STAAR to market the aspheric silicone IOL for use in cataract surgery in 21 countries where the CE Mark is accepted. STAAR's preloaded IOLs are not yet approved for use in the U.S.

Results With Newer Bladeless LASIK Equivalent To Standard Microkeratome LASIK

Wed, 03 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A Mayo Clinic study comparing femtosecond (bladeless) and mechanical microkeratome LASIK surgeries has found equal results from both types six months post-surgery, using a variety of vision and eye health measurements. The study's findings will be presented next week in three abstracts at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology meeting in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Lenstec Introduces Precision Series(TM) Intraocular Lens Implants

Mon, 24 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

ST. PETERSBURG, FL -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 04/20/2006 -- Lenstec, Inc, -- a provider of technologically advanced lenses for treating vision disorders -- today announced the introduction of its Precision SeriesT intraocular lens implants (IOLs) for treating patients with cataracts.

Two Surgeries For Nearsightedness Equally Effective

Tue, 18 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A new review of recent studies suggests two popular laser-assisted surgeries to correct nearsightedness are equally effective at restoring 20/20 vision six months to a year after the surgery.

Do-It-Yourself Lasik A Hoax

Wed, 12 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

People wanting Lasik laser eye surgery to be rid of glasses will still need to go to a surgeon, despite claims of a new website. "I didn't really think that I could do Lasik myself, what with a laser and all," says Marsha Thompson of Raleigh, NC. "But the website looked official so I tried to purchase the do-it-yourself kit."

Bausch & Lomb Halts US Shipments Of Lens Solution

Tue, 11 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Bausch & Lomb agreed to stop shipping its ReNu MoistureLoc brand contact lens solution in the United States after some users were diagnosed with a serious eye infection, the Food and Drug Administration said on Monday.

New Data Illuminates Research In Cataract Surgery

Sun, 09 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Data on cataract surgery are outlined in reports from the United States, Austria and Spain. Study 1: Silicon contamination may play a role in the calcification of hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lenses (IOLs). In a recent study, ophthalmologists in the United States sought to "verify the presence of the element silicon" on hydrophilic acrylic IOLs "explanted because of calcification."

Significant Wound Burn During Cataract Surgery Can Be Avoided

Tue, 04 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Significant wound burn occurs in approximately one out of 1,000 cataract surgery cases. However, there is the potential to decrease the incidence dramatically by changes in the surgical technique, modulation of the power in the eye, and the type of machine used during cataract surgery, said Randall J. Olson, MD. He is the John A. Moran presidential professor and chairman, department of ophthalmology and visual sciences, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City.

Multifocal IOLs Accommodate Preferences, Experience

Tue, 04 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Cataract surgeons and their patients now have three multifocal IOLs to choose from, depending on the patient's needs and interests as well as the physician's preference for and experience with a particular lens. Lenses on the market include the ReZoom (Advanced Medical Optics/AMO), the AcrySof ReSTOR (Alcon Laboratories), and the crystalens (eyeonics).

OP Eye Doctor Takes Part In Post-Lasik Trial

Tue, 04 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Millions of Americans who have undergone Lasik surgery face a return to eyeglasses or contacts as their near vision -- like everyone else's -- begins to diminish with age. But Dr. Daniel Durrie is working on an alternative. Refractec Inc. of Irvine, Calif., has chosen Durrie Vision of Overland Park and four other opthalmic practices across the country to conduct expanded clinical trials for a procedure called Post-Lasik NearVision CK.

New Corrective Eye Surgery Frees People Of All Glasses Even Past Age 50, Says Multifocal LASIK Expert

Thu, 30 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Are you over forty-five or fifty years old? Are your arms too short? Does someone else have to read the menu for you in the restaurant? Do you have nine pairs of reading glasses? You have presbyopia. There is help for you. LASIK is a brief outpatient procedure that has become quite popular for its success in freeing people of the need for glasses and contact lenses to see in the distance. The problem had been that for people in their forties LASIK would correct distance vision but still leave people needing reading glasses - just as anyone who had natural 20/20 vision and reached middle age would need reading glasses.

EyeonicsT Highlights Clinical Presentations At 2006 American Society Of Cataract And Refractive Surgery Symposium

Mon, 27 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

eyeonics, inc., the developer and manufacturer of the crystalens(R), the first and only FDA approved accommodating intraocular lens, today announced the presentation of several independent clinical studies of the crystalens and its accommodative function at the 2006 American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery Symposium. In addition to the data presented during the Symposium's general session, a large group of ophthalmic surgeons attended eyeonics' seminar, Breakfast With Champions: Understanding Accommodative Mechanism of Action of the crystalens, before the ASCRS Symposium on Saturday, March 18.

New Presbyopia And Glaucoma Treatment In Clinical Trials

Sun, 26 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Nicholas Caro, M.D., president of Clear Sight, Inc. in Chicago is beginning full-scale clinical trails on the Caro clips, a minimally invasive technique to treat presbyopia and a certain type of glaucoma. Dr. Caro, who is also medical director of the St. George Corrective Vision Center, holds several U.S. and foreign patents on his clips.

NICE Issues Guidance On Laser Eye Surgery For Treating Refractive Errors

Wed, 22 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has today (22 March) issued guidance on photorefractive (laser) eye surgery for the treatment of refractive errors (short and long-sightedness) to determine whether it is safe enough and works well enough for use.

OZil Lab Study Shows Effectiveness Of New Handpiece At Symposium

Tue, 21 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A study to demonstrate the effectiveness of the oscillatory movement in the new torsional handpiece (OZil) by Alcon was the highlight of the "Innovations in Ophthalmology" symposium Sunday night. The symposium was sponsored by Dulaney Foundation and supported by an educational grant from Alcon Laboratories. Kerry Solomon, MD, of the Medical University of South Carolina, explained the features of the new handpiece, citing improved fluidics, less dispersion, and better thermal safety profile than using a standard ultrasound handpiece. However, to demonstrate how the OZil decreases the repulsion of nuclear material as it nears the phaco tip, Dr. Solomon provided video of a laboratory study that he and his colleagues conducted at the Medical University of South Carolina.

WaveLight's DataLink Nomogram Program Demonstrates Superior Outcomes Among ALLEGRETTO WAVE(R) User Community

Mon, 20 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

STERLING, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 20, 2006--Aggregate data collected using SurgiVision(R) DataLink (WaveLight Edition) software confirms that ALLEGRETTO WAVE users are achieving similar outcomes to those reported in the U.S. FDA trials, WaveLight, Inc. and SurgiVision Consultants, Inc. announced today. Launched less than one year ago, DataLink has gained a subscription base of over 30 percent the U.S. ALLEGRETTO WAVE user community.

WaveLight's Wavefront-Optimized And Wavefront-Guided LASIK Six-Month Comparison Results Demonstrate Equivalency For Visual And Refractive Outcomes

Mon, 20 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

At a clinical course conducted this morning at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) annual meeting in San Francisco, Guy M. Kezirian, M.D., F.A.C.S and Karl G. Stonecipher, MD, presented six-month study results comparing outcomes of wavefront-optimized and wavefront-guided treatments with the ALLEGRETTO WAVE excimer laser.

Vision Share, Largest Eye Bank Network, Adds New Member - Expands Capacity To Provide Donor Corneas Pre-Cut For DSEK Procedures - Working To Develop Use Of Intralace With Corneal Grafts

Mon, 20 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Vision Share, a not-for-profit eye bank network based in Raleigh/Durham, NC, has added the Alabama Eye Bank as its newest member. The network is responsible for one-third of the supply of donor eye tissue recovered in the U.S.

European Vision Blue Patent Upheld: D.O.R.C Successfully Fought Off Patent Opposition

Mon, 20 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

An opposition procedure serving at the European Patent Office in Munich for the patent of the successful D.O.R.C. (Dutch Ophthalmic Research Center) product Vision Blue has been decided in favor of D.O.R.C., by stating that the claims of the main request of the patent meet the requirements of the European Patent Convention.

VisionCare Ophthalmic Technologies Announces Presentations At The Annual Meeting Of The American Society Of Cataract And Refractive Surgery

Fri, 17 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

VisionCare Ophthalmic Technologies, Inc., a developer of advanced visual prosthetic devices for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), announced today three presentations on its platform technology are scheduled at the upcoming annual symposium of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) March 18 - 21, 2006, in San Francisco. Podium presentations are scheduled at the Moscone Convention Center as follows:

Advanced Medical Optics Pledges $1 Million For ASCRS Foundation-Sponsored Independent Research And Programming In Refractive Lenticular Science

Wed, 15 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO, March 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Advanced Medical Optics (AMO) has pledged $1 million to support American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Foundation-sponsored research in refractive lenticular science, it was announced here today by I. Howard Fine, MD, ASCRS Foundation Chairman during the Opening General Session of the ASCRS Symposium and Congress.

Epi-K: Advanced Surface Treatment - No More Lasik Flaps

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Reston, VA (PRWEB) February 22, 2006 -- Before a surgical laser can be used to correct a patient's vision in LASIK eye surgery, a flap must be cut in the clear covering over the front of the eye (the cornea) and folded back to give the laser access to the tissue beneath. The flap is cut using either a blade, called a microkeratome, or a laser, such as Intralase. Once the flap has been cut and folded back, the excimer laser then reshapes the front of the eye to correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.

Dr. William Goldstein Brings The 'Implantable Contact Lens' To Metro Detroit

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich., March 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr. William Goldstein has surgically implanted the first VISIAN ICL(TM) (Implantable Collamer Lens) in Michigan. This recent FDA approved lens implant is the only foldable, minimally invasive lens approved for the correction of myopia, or nearsightedness, in adults. According to the National Eye Institute, more than 25 percent of Americans suffer from nearsightedness or have trouble seeing distant objects. The lens implant provides an alternative to glasses, contacts or LASIK laser surgery.

FDA Approvals: HepaGam B, Xibrom, Proair HFA

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Feb. 28, 2006 - The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved hepatitis B immune globulin [human] injection for the treatment of acute exposure to hepatitis B virus; a supplemental indication for bromfenac sodium 0.09% ophthalmic solution that includes the reduction of ocular pain in patients who have undergone cataract extraction; and an expanded indication for chlorofluorocarbon-free albuterol sulfate inhalation aerosol, allowing its use for the prevention of exercise-induced bronchospasm in adolescents and adults aged 12 years and older.

Boy's Eye On The Mend

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The experimental surgery performed on 11-year-old Lucas Lapham could not have gone more smoothly, said his physician, Dr. Craig McCabe, and soon, Lucas will be on the road to complete recovery.

Local Eye Clinic To Offer Clients Vision Gain Without The Pain

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

There may soon come a day when glasses become obsolete as new laser technologies designed to improve vision are perfected.

Introducing CorneoplastiqueT: Art Of Eye Surgery

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

(PRWEB via PR Web Direct) March 10, 2006 -- Can patient's with corneal scars, pterygiums, Keratoconus, surgical mishaps and Lasik complications see 20/20 again? Thanks to CorneoplastiqueT, in most cases these outcomes are now possible.

Postcataract Surgery Excimer Laser Treatment Resolves Ametropia

Thu, 09 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Exciser laser surgery appears to be safe and effective for the correction of ametropia following surgical cataract removal. In a recent study from the United States, ophthalmic surgeons evaluated outcomes in "patients who had excimer laser refractive surgery to correct unintentional or undesired ametropia after cataract extraction with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation."

Optometrists Anticipate 'Boom' In Eye Diseases As Baby Boomers Turn 60

Wed, 01 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

In a year where an estimated 2.8 million baby boomers will celebrate their 60th birthday, age-related eye diseases are becoming increasingly important health issues, according to the American Optometric Association. As part of national Save Your Vision Month in March, the AOA is reminding Americans 60 and older that early detection through a comprehensive eye exam can prevent or slow vision loss due to cataracts and other age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

New 'implanted Contacts' Designed To Fix Nearsightedness

Mon, 27 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

UT Southwestern Medical Center ophthalmologists will be the first in the area to insert a new type of implanted lens to fix nearsightedness. "Think of it as a contact lens inside your eye," said Dr. Wayne Bowman, who is inserting the new implantable collamer lens, or ICL, today for the first time at UT Southwestern University Hospitals.

Bergenfield Eye Surgeon Wins Malpractice Case

Fri, 24 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

NEWARK -- A well-known Bergen County eye surgeon won a malpractice case in U.S. District Court on Friday against a Connecticut woman who alleged his surgery triggered eye problems that left her unable to drive or stay in bright daylight for long.

Improved Lenses For Cataract Surgery Have Patients Smiling

Fri, 24 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

When cataracts began to cloud her vision late last year, Leah Lange saw the problem as an opportunity.

Surgery, she realized, could rid her not only of her cataracts, but of her eyeglasses as well.

Billing For Presbyopic IOLs

Fri, 24 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Until recently, most insurers were unwilling to alter the reimbursement they offer for cataract surgery in response to the availability of presbyopia-correcting intraocular lenses. Unfortunately, implanting them and receiving only the standard cataract surgery reimbursement would have bankrupted most practices and surgical facilities.

Reduced Cholesterol Linked To Cataracts

Fri, 24 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

NAGANO, Japan, February 2006 - Japanese researchers have found that reduced cholesterol levels within the eye's natural lens and in a portion of the brain linked to vision (cerebral cortex) could be an underlying cause of cataract formation in some cases.

Wavefront System Predicts Post-LASIK Night Vision Symptoms

Thu, 23 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A novel wavefront-based system can be used to predict night vision symptoms after LASIK surgery. In a recent study, ophthalmologists in California evaluated "the accuracy of the diagnostic capabilities of optical metrics generated from wavefront measurements in relationship to postlaser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) visual complaints as expressed and drawn by patients."

Perfect Pupil Iris Extension System Prevents Complications During Cataract Surgery

Thu, 16 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The Perfect Pupil iris extension system prevents iris fiber aspiration during cataract surgery in iridoschisis patients. In a recent study, ophthalmic surgeons in Germany evaluated results from "the use of the Perfect Pupil system (Milvella Pty. Ltd.) in three eyes in cataract surgery with iridoschisis."

New York Eye Surgeon Reports Results Of Cataract Surgery With Restor� Multifocal Lens Implants

Wed, 15 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Satish Modi, M.D., F.R.C.S. ( C ) a leading Cataract and LASIK surgeon in Poughkeepsie, New York who performed some of the first cataract surgery using the ReSTOR� Multifocal Lens Implant in New York, reports that cataract surgery and lens implant surgery using the ReSTOR� Lens Implant, has produced excellent clinical results and patient satisfaction.

Too Nearsighted For LASIK But Seeing Without Glasses For Valentine's Day

Fri, 03 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Although millions of people have attained eyeglass freedom through LASIK laser vision correction, there are many whose myopia or nearsightedness is beyond the range of LASIK. Now, according to Robert L. Epstein, M.D., Director of 800-I-CAN-SEE, the Mercy Center for Corrective Eye Surgery in Illinois, there is a new and effective way to help people beyond the range of LASIK.

Optical Coherence Tomography Useful For Anterior Eye Imaging

Fri, 03 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging of the anterior eye provides valuable diagnostic information in cataract surgery patients. OCT "represents a high-resolution diagnostic method which can be used to precisely image the anterior eye segment," ophthalmologists in Germany explained.

Reichert, Inc. Acquires Market-Leading Tono-Pen� XL Tonometer Product Line From Medtronic, Inc.

Wed, 01 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT

ISTA Pharmaceuticals Receives FDA Approval For Expanded Indication Of XibromT To Treat Pain Following Cataract Surgery

Mon, 30 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. today announced that the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has approved ISTA's supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) for Xibrom(TM) (bromfenac ophthalmic solution) 0.09%, expanding Xibrom's indications to include the treatment of pain following cataract surgery. Xibrom(TM), a topical, twice-daily, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory solution (NSAID), was originally approved by the FDA in March 2005 for the treatment of ocular inflammation following cataract surgery. ISTA launched Xibrom in the U.S. during the second quarter of 2005.

Factors Predicting Outcome Of Vitrectomy For Diabetic Macular Oedema: Results Of A Prospective Study

Sun, 29 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Conclusion: On average, patients showed a statistically significant improvement in central macular thickness following treatment but a marginal acuity worsening. Presence of subretinal fluid on OCT is hypothesised to be exudative rather than tractional in nature. The visual benefit of vitrectomy for DMO in this study was limited to patients who exhibit signs of macular traction either clinically and/or on OCT.

Patients May See Scary Lights During Eye Surgery

Sun, 29 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Patients who are awake while undergoing surgery on the gel-like vitreous inside the eye often report seeing frightening lights, similar to what is experienced by cataract surgery patients, a new study shows. As a result, many patients say they would opt for general anesthesia the next time around, despite the greater risk.

Advanced Medical Optics' Tecnis� IOL Designated As A New Technology Intraocular Lens By The Centers For Medicare And Medicaid Services

Thu, 26 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) , today announced that the Tecnis(R) foldable intraocular lens (IOL) has been designated as a New Technology Intraocular Lens (NTIOL) by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The designation follows labeling claims approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration in April 2004 that the Tecnis(R) foldable IOL reduced postoperative spherical aberrations compared to lenses with spherical optics and improved night driving simulator performance. The NTIOL designation goes into effect February 27, 2006 and includes both the acrylic and silicone platform Tecnis(R) lenses.

Volk Super Macula 2.2-Lightweight Lens With Heavyweight Resolution

Tue, 17 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

New Staar Implantable Lens For Nearsightedness Available At Dougherty Laser Vision

Thu, 12 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Dougherty Laser Vision -- one of Southern California's leading centers for vision correction research -- is the first surgery center in the Western U.S. to offer the newly FDA-approved Staar Visian ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) for treating nearsightedness.

The Implantable Contact Lens - Finally Available For Even The Most Severely Nearsighted

Thu, 12 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

For anyone considering vision correction, the plethora of procedures available is mind boggling and confusing! And until now, those people who were severely nearsighted did not have much of an option. While LASIK surgery has continued to evolve over the last decade and is an excellent option for the mild to moderately visually impaired patient, it is not ideal for those requiring more drastic adjustment.

STAAR Surgical Announces First Myopia Treatment Using The VISIAN ICLT

Wed, 11 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

STAAR Surgical Company , today announced that the first VISIAN ICL(TM) (Implantable Collamer Lens) has been surgically implanted in the U.S. since the Food and Drug Administration approved the premarket approval application for the lens in December 2005. Dr. John Vukich, ophthalmic surgeon and medical director at the Davis Duehr Dean Medical Center in Madison, Wisconsin, performed the procedure on January 10, 2006, which resulted in a dramatic improvement in the patient's vision. The patient had previously only been able to count fingers when placed one foot in front of her. Dr. Vukich reported that post- operatively her vision was "better than 20/20."

Tekia, Inc. Receives Approval To Market In Europe Its Accommodating Intraocular Lens For Treatment Of Presbyopia

Mon, 09 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Tekia, Inc., a privately owned medical device company, announced today that it has received a CE Mark approval from the European Union for its Accommodating Intraocular Lens. The CE Mark approval allows Tekia to market its lens throughout the European Union. The Accommodating Intraocular Lens is for the treatment of presbyopia, a condition that affects near vision in many middle aged and older patients.

Morcher� Cionni Variation CTRs Approved By FDA

Tue, 03 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

AMO Awarded $213.9 Million In Infringement Case Against Alcon

Mon, 02 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

SANTA ANA, Calif., Dec. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) (NYSE: EYE) announced today that a judge has upheld a May 2005 jury decision and awarded AMO $213.9 million in damages resulting from willful infringement by Alcon Manufacturing, Ltd. and Alcon Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE: ACL) of two AMO patents for phacoemulsification equipment used in cataract surgery.

STAAR Surgical's VISIAN ICLT Receives FDA Approval

Mon, 02 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Cataract Surgery Proves Costly For Patients' Eyesight

Mon, 02 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

China Daily, China - Dec 28, 2005
SHANGHAI: Police and medical departments are currently investigating a serious medical scandal in Suzhou, East China's Anhui Province, in which nine out of 10 cataract patients had to have their eyeballs removed following cataract surgery in an allegedly non-sterile environment.

Cataract Cases Prompt Eye Health Warning

Mon, 02 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear hospital is urging people to protect their eyes from the sun. New research shows the thinning of the ozone layer will lead to a dramatic increase in cataract sufferers in coming years. The Eye and Ear Hospital's Christine Tangas says Australia is exposed to some of the highest ultra-violet (UV) radiation levels in the world.

Local Doctor Credited With A Medical Invention

Mon, 02 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

A decade-old medical invention by a local Wolfe Eye Clinic specialist may finally take off now that circumstances have turned the industry's attention back to it.

Getting Into Focus Years After Lasik

Fri, 30 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The big promise of Lasik vision-correction surgery - that you could throw away your glasses and contacts - was only a half-truth, as maturing Lasik patients are beginning to realize.

American Academy Of Ophthalmology Announces Development Of The Ultimate Ophthalmology Curriculum

Wed, 28 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO - (12/20/2005) The American Academy of Ophthalmology today announced the development of a clinically relevant ophthalmology curriculum containing more than 800 topics, a feat never before attempted or completed by an ophthalmic society or medical society in the United States.

Pop Open A Bottle Of Bubbly The Right Way

Wed, 28 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

SAN FRANCISCO - The American Academy of Ophthalmology-the Eye M.D. Association-and Eye M.D.s across the country are urging Americans to celebrate safely this holiday season. Unfortunately, every year careless celebrating leads to serious injuries, often including eye injuries. Champagne corks are one of the most common holiday-related hazards to the eyes.

STAAR Surgical's VISIAN ICLT Receives FDA Approval

Fri, 23 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

STAAR Surgical Company today reported that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the Company's Myopic VISIAN ICL(TM) for use in the correction of myopia in adults.

More Refractive Surgery Options Seen In 2005

Mon, 19 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Refractive IOLs, fine-tuning of excimer laser surgery, and shifts in the choices of refractive surgeries, among other developments, have all been highlighted as the primary advances in 2005.

CMS Ruling, New Products Make 2005 Another Banner Year For Cataract Surgery Advances

Mon, 19 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Advances in techniques and technology for cataract surgery and IOL implantation have continued through the past year. Those innovations combined with changes in reimbursement have improved the practice setting, contributed to an overall air of increased optimism among ophthalmologists, and have made the contemporary era of cataract surgery more of a golden age than ever before, said I. Howard Fine, MD, reflecting on the state of cataract surgery as the year 2005 nears its end.

10 Years Later, A Look At Lasik Techniques

Mon, 19 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Conventional Lasik surgery is based on the patient's glasses prescription. Wavefront-guided Lasik bounces light waves off the back of the eye to create a 3-D map that's used to guide the laser treatment. One small study of 25 patients suggested that wavefront Lasik yielded fewer nighttime distortions, such as halos and glare, than conventional Lasik, and resulted in better vision for slightly more patients.

Pioneering Surgery Restores Woman's Sight

Mon, 19 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A blind woman has had her sight restored by a pioneering operation developed by a British surgeon which could ultimately end the need for corneal transplants from donors. Jennifer Matcham, 64, lost her sight as a result of cumulative problems with her eyes. But within days of undergoing the new procedure, she was able to read close to the bottom of the eye test chart without glasses.

Advanced Medical Optics Awarded $213.9 Million In Infringement Case Against Alcon

Mon, 19 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. announced today that a judge has upheld a May 2005 jury decision and awarded AMO $213.9 million in damages resulting from willful infringement by Alcon Manufacturing, Ltd. and Alcon Laboratories, Inc. of two AMO patents for phacoemulsification equipment used in cataract surgery.

Cataract Surgery Rates Tied To Physician Reimbursement

Wed, 14 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A fee-for-service approach is associated with a much higher rate of cataract surgery and related surgical costs, compared to a system that pays doctors a lump sum for each patient they manage -- called contact capitation, a new U.S. study says. Under fee-for-service, doctors are paid for each procedure they perform.

Lens Replacement Surgery Lifts The Cloud For Many Cataract Patients

Tue, 13 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Jane Crouse wore glasses or contacts for nearly 50 years. But now, without them, she can see better than ever.

Cataract Surgery Rates And Costs Related To Physician Reimbursement Methods, USA

Tue, 13 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A system in which physicians are reimbursed for each procedure they perform (fee-for-service) is associated with a significantly higher rate of cataract surgery and related surgical costs, compared to a system in which physicians receive a lump sum for each patient they manage (contact capitation), according to a study in the December issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Cataract Surgery Rates And Costs Related To Physician Reimbursement Methods

Mon, 12 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Choosing A Lasik Doctor Continues To Be Challenging

Mon, 12 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Advertisements for Lasik, the laser eye surgery that corrects vision, often praise doctors as "award winning," "pioneer," and tout "thousands of surgeries." Selecting a qualified doctor from all the competing claims can be a challenge for the patient.

After A Decade, Lasik Surgery Still A Luxury

Mon, 12 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Since U.S. doctors began offering laser vision correction in 1995, safety has improved and new methods give people with more severe vision problems a chance to have the procedure. But there's still no guarantee of 20/20 eyesight, the procedure's long-term safety is unknown and one recent study showed nearly 18 percent of patients require a second Lasik treatment. A lack of health insurance coverage keeps the procedure a luxury item, affordable only to people who can spare $3,000 to $5,000.

LCA-Vision Announces The Opening Of Its 50th LasikPlus Vision Center

Mon, 12 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

LCA-Vision Inc. , a leading provider of laser vision correction services under the LasikPlus brand, announced the opening of its 50th LasikPlus vision center in Birmingham, Alabama. The entry into Birmingham marks the first LasikPlus vision center in the state of Alabama. LasikPlus vision centers are now located in 25 states, serving 37 markets. 40% of the United States population is now located within a one-hour drive of a LasikPlus vision center.

Lasik Remains A Luxury Procedure

Sat, 10 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Christopher Tomes, 43, opened his eyes one morning, looked out the window and could read the license plate of a parked car - without his glasses.

Depleted Ozone Layer May Lead To Increased Number Of Cataracts

Fri, 09 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A new study indicates that an increase in exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation resulting from further depletion in the earth's stratospheric ozone layer could lead to a significant increase in the number of cataracts in the U.S. in the future.

Volk Optical Expands Surgical Lens Line

Fri, 09 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Volk Optical, the leader in aspheric optics, has expanded its lens offerings for surgical use, adding the ACS Direct Image ACS Vitrectomy Lenses. The line includes eight new lenses that provide clear direct views and can be safely steam sterilized.

Atmospheric Ozone Drop May Lead To More Cataracts

Thu, 08 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

An increase in exposure to ultraviolet radiation as result of ozone depletion in the stratosphere could in future lead to a considerable increase in the incidence of cataracts in the US population, researchers report.

New Treatment Might Allow People To Do Away With Eyeglasses Forever

Tue, 06 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The big promise of Lasik vision-correction surgery -- that you could throw away your glasses and contacts -- was only a half-truth, as maturing Lasik patients are beginning to realize.

Global Gene Profiling Reveals Novel Glucocorticoid Induced Changes In Gene Expression Of Human Lens Epithelial Cells

Mon, 05 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Prolonged use of glucocorticoids can lead to the formation of a cataract, however the mechanism is not known.

Study Of 30-Day Extended Wear Contact Lenses

Mon, 05 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A team of researchers led by the Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute have determined that the corneal infection rate associated with the use of 30-day -extended-wear contact lenses made from silicone hydrogel is comparable to that previously reported for older lens types worn for fewer consecutive 24-hour periods.

Cataract Incidence In Men Increases With Height, Waist Size And Body Mass Index

Sat, 03 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

In a large prospective study of physicians followed over 14 years, Schaumberg et al. found that greater adult height and a pattern of abdominal adiposity were each independent risk factors for cataract in men.

30-Day Soft Contact Lenses Pose Very Small Risk Of Vision Loss

Fri, 02 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A team of researchers have determined that the corneal infection rate associated with the use of 30-day -extended-wear contact lenses made from silicone hydrogel is comparable to that previously reported for older lens types worn for fewer consecutive 24-hour periods.

Egg Nutrients Good For The Elderly

Wed, 30 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

There is compelling evidence that lutein and zeaxanthin, nutrients found in green and yellow vegetables and egg yolks, may help protect against the development of age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts. Recent studies suggest that these nutrients may play other protective roles in the body as well, according to researchers who presented at the annual scientific meeting of the Gerontological Society of America.

New Post-Lasik Vision Treatment Begins To Come Into Focus

Wed, 30 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The big promise of Lasik vision-correction surgery -- that you could throw away your glasses and contacts -- was only a half-truth, as maturing Lasik patients are beginning to realize. Lasik has become hugely popular during the last decade, especially among young adults. But by middle age, virtually everyone develops presbyopia, the inability to read or focus close-up. So even former Lasik patients are rummaging through drugstore racks for a pair of reading glasses.

Lasik Vision Center Settles False Advertising Charges

Wed, 30 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Following an advertising campaign throughout Illinois that allegedly misrepresented the actual cost of corrective laser eye surgery, a Florida company that performs the surgeries has agreed to ensure that future ads reflect the actual cost of its procedures.

Center Has A Vision For Future

Wed, 30 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Garfold, 71, used glasses or contact lenses all of her life to see both near and far and her near vision was diminishing with age. But on Oct. 25, when her ophthalmologist, Dr. Robert E. Feinfield, used a new surgical technique and artificial lens to clear up the cataract in her right eye, her near vision was also restored.

Cataract Surgery Technique Affected By Tamsulosin

Wed, 30 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Patients' use of an alpha-1-receptor blocker needs to be taken into consideration by ophthalmologists before cataract extraction, the U.S. distributor of tamsulosin hydrochloride said in a letter distributed Tuesday by the Food and Drug Administration.

Refractive Error, Ocular Biometry, And Lens Opalescence In An Adult Population: The Los Angeles Latino Eye Study

Mon, 28 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

1From the Department of Preventive Medicine and the 2Doheny Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California. See the Appendix for members of the Los Angeles Latino Eye Study Group.

Long Wait For Treatment Spurs U.S. Cancer Clinic

Sat, 26 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A top U.S. cancer hospital was able to open a Toronto office due to a growing demand from patients who are fatigued by long waits for care, says Brian Day, president of the Canadian Independent Medical Clinics Association.

Support Systems Help Elderly Get Cataract Surgery

Thu, 24 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Nursing home residents with cataracts face significant barriers to obtaining surgical services, according to findings published in the Archives of Ophthalmology. The addition of a support system facilitates scheduling surgery and getting the patients to and from the hospital, and increases cataract surgery rates.

Vision Of Destiny

Thu, 24 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Colors, faces and a new outlook are just some of the blessings a local girl receives after undergoing pioneering eye surgery

Coma Increase Not Linked To Larger Pupil Size After Wavefront

Wed, 23 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A new study suggests that while spherical aberration may increase with larger pupil sizes after wavefront-guided LASIK, other aberrations, including coma, do not. Brian S. Boxer Wachler, M.D., and colleagues published results in the June 2005 issue of Ophthalmology. The study demonstrated a statistically significant increase in spherical aberration between a 6.5- and 7.0-mm pupil size for high myopes after wavefront-guided LASIK.

Aberration Threshold Analysis May Assist Laser Correction

Wed, 23 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Many ophthalmic researchers have sought to make aberration threshold analysis an area of study that could assist laser correction, but they say challenges remain in doing so. Aberration threshold analysis pertains to the study of higher-order aberration (HOA) fractions above which visual symptoms could present.

Tea Fights Cataracts, Boosts Insulin Activity

Mon, 21 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

New research in animals suggests that tea may be a simple, inexpensive means of preventing diabetes and its ensuing complications, including cataracts. Researchers fed green and black tea to diabetic rats for three months and then monitored the chemical composition of the rats' blood and eye lenses.

HealthFirst-Cataract Surgery

Fri, 18 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A cataract clouds the eye's natural lens, making it hard to see clearly.

UMR Researcher Sets Sights On Improving Vision

Wed, 16 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A University of Missouri-Rolla researcher has teamed up with a St. Louis opthamologist to help those who suffer from cataracts by studying the elasticity of lenses.

Investigators Attempt To Pinpoint HOA Volume That Reduces Vision

Wed, 16 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Investigators have come a step closer to pinpointing the quantity of higher-order aberrations (HOAs) needed to reduce vision.

FDA Approves Label Change For Flomax Following Report Of Cataract Surgery Complications

Wed, 16 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Who knew that the most commonly prescribed prostate drug may complicate cataract surgery in male patients? David F. Chang, MD and John R. Campbell, MD suspected this after conducting a recently published study that examined the incidence of Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome (IFIS) in their cataract surgery practices.

Phase 2 Clinical Trial For OT-551 In Cataract Prevention, Othera Pharmaceuticals

Mon, 14 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Othera Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a specialty pharmaceuticals company focused on treating eye disease, announced that it has initiated a Phase 2 clinical trial of its lead compound, a topically administered eye drop, OT-551.

Support System Helps Overcome Barriers For Nursing Home Residents In Need Of Cataract Surgery

Mon, 14 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Although nursing home residents with vision-impairing cataract face significant obstacles to obtaining surgical services, a support system that facilitates scheduling surgery and getting the patient to and from the hospital increases cataract surgery rates, according to a study in the November issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Volk Optical Releases Wide Field AutoClave Sterilizable Lenses For Vitreoretinal Surgery

Fri, 11 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Volk Optical, the leader in aspheric optics, has released new AutoClaveSterilizable (ACS) wide field MiniQuad� and Central Retinal vitrectomy lenses. The lighter lenses offer improved optics with decreased sterilization processing time.

New Procedure For Treating Cataracts

Wed, 09 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

More than 20 million Americans suffer from cataracts and chances are, as you age, you will too. Cataract surgery is the most-commonly performed surgery in the U.S., yet most patients still need reading glasses after the procedure. A breakthrough new technology is promising relief. AcrySof ReSTOR treats cataracts, and during the clinical trial, 4 out of 5 patients who received the lens in both eyes reported not having to wear glasses.

Answers To Your 10 Top Questions About Wavefront

Wed, 09 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Perhaps you've considered performing wavefront-guided refractive surgery but have not taken the plunge. Or maybe you think wavefront is right for your practice but are unsure when to use it. Here are answers to 10 frequently asked questions about wavefront treatment; the answers may help with your decisions about wavefront use.

Eye Implants

Wed, 09 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Even after surgery, most cataract patients still need glasses for short or long distances. But a new lens implant is changing that and could also help millions of other Americans see big improvements in their vision.

Kelly Eye Center's New Cataract Procedure Featured In Nov/Dec Cary Magazine

Mon, 07 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The visual freedom now available to cataract patients through a new lens technology is featured in this month's issue of Cary Magazine. The article, written by Kelly Eye Center Medical Director, Dr. Michael Kelly, describes the surgical procedure, which uses the new AcrySof IOL.

Othera Pharmaceuticals Initiates Phase 2 Clinical Trial For OT-551 In Cataract Prevention; Trial To Address Rapidly-Progressing Form Of Cataracts Resulting From Retinal Surgery

Mon, 07 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Othera Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a specialty pharmaceuticals company focused on treating eye disease, today announced that it has initiated a Phase 2 clinical trial of its lead compound, a topically administered eye drop, OT-551.

St. George Corrective Vision Center Acquires ITrace System

Fri, 04 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The St. George Corrective Vision Center in Chicago recently acquired the iTrace tracking system that allows for a customized Lasik procedure for each patient.

Strategies On Complicated Cataracts.plus Much More

Wed, 02 Nov 2005 00:00:00 GMT

When Richard L. Lindstrom, M.D., Minnesota Eye Consultants, Minneapolis, spoke at the recent Storm Eye/ASCRS Clinical Update 2005, he offered a group of pearls on complicated cataracts, plus much more. Here are some of the pearls that Dr. Lindstrom offered

Laser Eye Center Focused On Correcting Vision

Sun, 30 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Dr. Richard C. Rothman is committed to helping Nevadans improve their eyesight -- without breaking the bank.

Laser Eye Surgery Does Not Improve Major League Baseball Performance

Thu, 27 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

There has been great public interest in laser refractive eye surgery (e.g. LASIK) with many prominent sports figures advocating its benefits. Two university researchers studied the offensive performance of a dozen Major League hitters who had undergone these procedures. The study concluded that there was no offensive benefit to undergoing the refractive surgical procedure in these players. In addition, due to the well-established risks of these elective surgical procedures, the authors conclude that players may be best served by waiting until the end of their baseball career before performing the procedure. As the baseball season concludes with the World Series games, players at all levels may wish to reconsider their plans to undergo a refractive surgical procedure based on these findings.

Marco Now With EYE-Q Software Enhancement

Thu, 27 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Marco makes it possible to reduce refraction time to as little as 30 seconds. Employing a new technology and refraction process, Marco's 30- Second Refraction measures 100% of the patient's optical system. The result is a more accurate and faster refraction that gives you a significant advantage over traditional methods.

Rehabilitation Of The Low- vision Patient: The Feldberg Center Model

Wed, 26 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Stephen E. Morse, O.D., M.P.H., Ph.D., associate professor of ophthalmology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, S.C., said to refer to low vision when it can be similar to the decision to perform cataract surgery. Dr. Morse made his remarks at the recent Storm Eye/ASCRS Clinical Update 2005.

Neural Wiring In Brain's Visual System Is Not Dismantled By Visual Deprivation

Thu, 20 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

New research findings led by Thomas Krahe and Ary S. Ramoa of Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine offer two pieces of good news for treating children with amblyopia.

Sight Can Recover Quickly In Amblyopia

Wed, 19 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

New research findings led by Thomas Krahe and Ary S. Ramoa of Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine offer two pieces of good news for treating children with amblyopia.

Post Lasik Patients Who Want Even Better Vision Now Have Options(1)

Mon, 17 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Lasik is an increasingly popular option for those wanting good vision. For those who want even better vision after Lasik, they now have NeuroVision.

Evolving Perspectives In Ophthalmology: Cataract

Mon, 17 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

"Crimping" of the haptic of a multi-piece IOL can occur during insertion, said Richard J. Mackool, M.D., Mackool Eye Institute, Astoria, N.Y., at the recent Storm Eye/ASCRS Clinical Update 2005.

Carl Zeiss Meditec Showcases New Solutions Designed To Enhance Clinical Value

Sat, 15 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc., a leader in ophthalmic devices and systems, is demonstrating new ways of adding clinical value for vision care professionals worldwide through new products, an enhanced Web site, networking efforts and educational offerings at the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) Annual Meeting, October 15-18 in Chicago.

Survey Finds More Than Two Million Americans Not Satisfied With Lasik Results(1)

Fri, 14 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Nearly 1 in 3 Americans have complained of under or over correction in one or both eyes, loss of quality of vision, vision fluctuations and poor vision in dark conditions, after undergoing Lasik surgery.

Trend Toward Topical Anesthesia, Surgeons Say

Fri, 14 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

While plenty of surgeons still prefer regional anesthesia during certain ocular surgeries, there appears to be a trend toward topical anesthesia, said R. Bruce Wallace III, M.D., professor of ophthalmology, Louisiana State University, New Orleans.

Real-Life Strategies To Prevent Endophthalmitis Outbreaks

Fri, 14 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A mysterious cluster of endophthalmitis cases occurred in 2002 and was referred to Nauman A. Chaudhry, M.D., Yale Eye Center, New Haven, Conn., and colleagues for analysis.

Bausch & Lomb Study Demonstrates IntraLase(R) FS Laser Produces Superior Flap

Thu, 13 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

IntraLase Corp. (Nasdaq: ILSE) today commented on recent claims made in a head-to-head study concerning the comparative outcomes of Bausch & Lomb's bladed microkeratome device versus IntraLase's Femtosecond (FS) laser instrument.

Safety Of Alcon's RETAANE(R) Suspension Confirmed At 24 Months; Data Supports Clinical Equivalence To VISUDYNE

Thu, 13 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE:ACL) reported 24 month data from itscomparative study of RETAANE(R) 15 mg (anecortave acetate suspension)versus VISUDYNE(a) photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the treatment of wetage-related macular degeneration (AMD). The data will be presented atthe annual meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology thisweekend in Chicago.

NIDEK -- Two Sister Companies Merge To Combine Efforts In U.S. Ophthalmic Industry

Thu, 13 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

NIDEK Co., Ltd. announced today that its two wholly owned subsidiary companies -- NIDEK Technologies America (NTA) and NIDEK Inc. would merge and consolidate business activities in the U.S. market effective April 1st, 2006. NTA, with a focus in commercializing advanced ophthalmic diagnostic instrumentation for corneal and retinal applications, will merge with NIDEK's U.S. sales and marketing organization -- NIDEK Inc.

Marking 30,000th Implant, Crystalens First And Only To Deliver Continuous, Naturally-Focusing Vision For Millions Struggling With Aging Eyes

Wed, 12 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

30,000 crystalens implants and 500 certified physicians strong, the future of intraocular lenses lies with accommodating, or naturally focusing, technology -- the first and only to provide continuous clear vision through the full range of vision, including the all-important intermediate -- or lifestyle -- vision.

IntraLase(R) Announces Half-Million Blade-Free Lasik Procedures; Milestone Marked At American Academy Of Ophthalmology Meeting Reflects Growing Shift From Microkeratome-Initiated LASIK To Advanced IntraLase Laser Treatment

Wed, 12 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

IntraLase Corp. (Nasdaq:ILSE) today will announce at the American Academy of Ophthalmology Annual Meeting (Oct. 14-18) that a half-million blade-free LASIK vision correction procedures, only possible with the IntraLase FS (femtosecond) laser, have been sold.

Overcoming IOL Implantation Problems

Wed, 12 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A challenge that cataract surgeons are likely to see in ever increasing numbers, especially as the number of IOLs and the surgical situations for which they are available expands, is that of removing a foldable lens with an incorrect power calculation.

Nurse Anesthetists Keep Us In The Dark

Tue, 11 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

It's Mark Giles' job to make sure patients are blissfully unaware of what's going on during their surgery.

Medicare Ruling Gives Cataract Patients Access To New Lenses

Mon, 10 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Seniors undergoing cataract surgery may now pay privately for a lens that corrects eyesight at all distances. Previously, Medicare reimbursements covered only less expensive lenses with a single focus, which meant most cataract patients still needed eyeglasses following surgery.

Advanced Medical Optics Accelerates Plan To Enhance Refractive Leadership And Leverage Core Brands

Mon, 10 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) , announced today that it is accelerating its previously announced rationalization and repositioning designed to enhance the company's leadership in the refractive surgical ophthalmic market.

New Device Corrects Centering Of LASIK Vision Treatments

Mon, 10 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

LASIK laser vision correction has become a popular and successful outpatient procedure that has freed millions of people from the need for glasses. Based on a new development, the safety of the LASIK procedure will increase. There is one moment in the laser vision correction treatment where the doctor asks the patient to look at a fixation light. The doctor has to hope that the patient is really looking right at the fixation light. With the most advanced lasers today, a digital image of the patient's eye is created at the beginning of the treatment and the laser system then tracks eye movements and adjusts the laser treatment accordingly.

Lutein For The Eyes

Sun, 09 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

OCTOBER is World Blindness Awareness Month with World Sight Day falling on the 13th day.

A New Diagnostic Tool For Dry-Eye Patients

Fri, 07 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

An inexpensive tear normalization test (TNT) using carboxymethylcellulose 0.5% drops could be used to help physicians to diagnosis thousands of dry-eye patients.

Lens Choice Affects Cost In Treating Unilateral Congenital Cataract

Fri, 07 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Treatment of unilateral congenital cataract with a posterior chamber (PC) IOL is 15% less expensive than treatment with aphakic contact lenses when estimating the cost of therapy for 2 years, according to a recent cost analysis.

Stereopsis Improves After LASIK Correction Of Anisometropia

Thu, 06 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

In a small interventional case series, more than two-thirds of patients undergoing LASIK for correction of a high degree of anisometropia had improved stereopsis following surgery, according to Scott E. Olitsky, MD.

Refractive Surgery An Option For Kids With High Bilateral Myopia

Thu, 06 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Refractive surgery may be an option for treating children with high myopia and neurobehavioral disorders who are unable to use either of the two principal methods of correcting myopia, spectacles or contact lenses.

Dye Decreases Challenges Of Sutureless Corneal Transplant

Thu, 06 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Sutureless corneal transplantation surgery is sufficiently challenging in and of itself, so any improvement in the technique that lowers the rate of reoperation because of a poorly positioned donor disc or disc detachment is worthy of discussion.

Toric IOLs Considered A Cornerstone For Astigmatism Management

Thu, 06 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Toric IOLs are a valuable tool in the cataract surgeon's armamentarium for correcting all levels of astigmatism, said James P. Gills Sr., MD, at the Current Concepts in Ophthalmology meeting.

New Implanted Eye Lenses Approved

Wed, 05 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Two new brands of implanted eye lens are designed to restore full range of vision - both distance and close up - after cataract surgery or in people without cataracts. However, the multifocal lenses are not covered by insurance. AcrySof ReStor and ReZoom intraocular lenses, both approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in March, can be implanted to restore vision after a clouded natural lens (cataract) is removed.

Ruling Opens Door For Canadians To Have Hip Operations In U.S.

Mon, 03 Oct 2005 00:00:00 GMT

For the second time in a year, a tribunal has ordered the Ontario government to reimburse a patient for hip replacement surgery done in the United States, decisions observers say may encourage more patients -- plagued by some of the longest waits in the world -- to head south for the operation.

Patient Care Critical Epi-LASIK Component

Fri, 30 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Improving patient management in Epi-LASIK can improve patient satisfaction and visual outcomes in this newer refractive procedure, according to surgeons experienced with it.

Healthbeat:Lazy Eye Study

Wed, 28 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Lazy eye (amblyopia) is a condition in which an otherwise healthy eye doesn't see as well as it should. As an infant grows, vision develops and matures through constant stimulation of the visual system.

Refocus Group Presents Latest SSP Presbyopia Clinical Study Results At ESCRS

Mon, 26 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Refocus Group, Inc. (OTC: RFCG.OB) (www.refocus-group.com), a medical device company engaged in the research and development of treatments for eye disorders, has presented new summary data of its U.S. Food and Drug Administration randomized Phase II clinical study of the company's Scleral Spacing Procedure (SSP) for the surgical treatment of presbyopia.

Hispanics Face Barriers To Cataract Surgery

Mon, 26 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Hispanics in the U.S. have a much higher rate of cataracts than whites, but language barriers and lack of medical insurance prevent many from receiving much-needed cataract surgery, researchers have found.

Benny Lacks Sight, Possesses Vision

Sun, 25 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Like other 12-year-old boys, Benny Nolan likes to be with friends, play video games and be outside. He's good at music and he even enjoys school.

Alcon's AcrySof(R) Toric Intraocular Lens Approved By FDA

Thu, 22 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc., (NYSE:ACL) announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the AcrySof(R) Toric intraocular lens (IOL) for use in cataract patients with pre-existing corneal astigmatism.

Children Not Immune To Cataracts

Tue, 20 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Cataracts are typically thought of as a problem that develops later in life.

However, kids can get them, too.

FDA Approves Alcon's AcrySof(R) Toric Intraocular Lens

Tue, 20 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Routine Eye Care Is Important, According To Eye Physicians Society

Tue, 20 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Today, more than two-thirds of visually impaired adults in the U.S. are over 65 years of age. Nearly 20.5 million Americans age 65 and older are afflicted with cataracts, the leading cause of blindness in the U.S. Alarmingly, the number of Americans with age-related eye disease is expected to double within the next three decades unless something is done to reverse the trend.

LASIK Information And Education Website Expands Coverage

Mon, 19 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

With more than 8 million LASIK Surgery procedures having been performed since the United States Food and Drug Administration approved the Excimer Laser for performing laser eye surgery for the correction of nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism, LASIK eye surgery has rapidly grown into a multi-billion dollar industry.

NSAID Approved For Cataract Pain

Mon, 19 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

After a priority 6-month review, the FDA approved nepafenac ophthalmic suspension 0.1% (Nevanac, Alcon Laboratories), a novel nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory prodrug, for the treatment of pain and inflammation associated with cataract surgery.

Advanced Features Enhance Phaco Safety And Efficiency

Mon, 19 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Results of studies measuring energy used during cataract removal by phacoemulsification provide convincing evidence that the Infiniti Vision system (Alcon Laboratories) is a significant advance in optimizing surgical safety and efficiency, said Richard J. Mackool, MD, at the annual meeting of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.

Patients With Mixed Astigmatism Achieve Good Results After Refractive Treatment

Mon, 19 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The CustomVue refractive treatment (VISX/AMO) for patients with mixed astigmatism demonstrated good results at 6 months, according to Douglas D. Koch, MD.

Presbyopic Correction Follows Multiple Directions

Mon, 19 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A continuing rapid evolution in technology brings promise for the future availability of better surgical methods for correcting presbyopia, said W. Bruce Jackson, MD, at World Cornea Congress V.

Timing Of Post-LASIK Infections Helps Determine Treatment

Mon, 19 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The incidence of microbial keratitis after LASIK has been reported to range from one in 1,000 cases to one in 10,000 cases. There are no prospective studies in the literature that accurately document the true occurrence rates.

Trial For Eye Doctor To Start Monday

Sat, 17 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A Burlington eye doctor accused of performing hundreds of unnecessary cataract surgeries and defrauding health insurance programs is going on trial Monday.

Stem Cell Transplant Can Leave Long-Term Health Woes

Fri, 16 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Blood cancer patients who undergo stem cell transplantation therapy are likely to suffer more health problems 10 years down the road compared with healthy individuals who've never had this cutting-edge therapy, new research finds.

Quantel Medical Introduces The New Aviso A/B, A New Generation High Definition Ultrasound System In A Unique Laptop Or Desktop Pc Workstation

Fri, 16 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Diagnosis is made easy with this new High Definition B-Scan and options such as High Frequency Anterior and Posterior Segment imaging are a perfect adjunct when OCT isn't enough or for precise measurements of the Anterior Chamber.

Laser Ablation Proves Effective In Correcting Refractive Error

Wed, 14 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Investigators reported in the January 2005 issue of the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery that laser ablation of the corneal flap achieved good visual results and enabled preservation of the posterior corneal stroma.

Lens Frees Cataract Patients Of Glasses: Latest Intraocular Device Gives Eye Greater Focus Range

Tue, 13 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Frank Castaneda, of Camden, wore bifocals for 45 years. But about seven months ago, the 80-year-old began noticing that his glasses always seemed smudged.

Boomers' Vision Grows Blurry

Mon, 12 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

If you're over 40, chances are you're getting a little optical help to read this story.

Prevalence Of Cataract Causing Vision Problems Appears High Among US Hispanics

Mon, 12 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Prevalence of cataracts causing significant visual problems appears high among older U.S. Hispanics who also often encounter barriers to access to care, according to a study in the September issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

NIDEK Receives CE Mark Approval For NIDEK EC-5000CXIII Excimer Laser System

Mon, 12 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

NIDEK Co. Ltd. announced that it has received CE Mark approval for its new and advanced refractive surgery laser system the - NIDEK EC-5000CXIII. This regulatory milestone clears the way for NIDEK to commercialize and market the new laser platform for refractive surgery, throughout the world, especially in Europe and the Middle East.

FDA Expands IntraLase FS30(TM) Laser Use To Include Penetrating And Lamellar Corneal Resections

Wed, 07 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

IntraLase Corp. (NASDAQ:ILSE) today announced it has received anew 510K clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for useof the IntraLase FS30 femtosecond laser in creating the cornealresections performed in lamellar keratoplasty and penetratingkeratoplasty procedures. The IntraLase FS30 laser is the first andonly laser to receive clearance for use in penetrating keratoplasty.

Cataract Treatment Just Got Quicker

Wed, 07 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

If you have a cataract, walk into the doctor's clinic, get a surgery and walk out in less than an hour to resume normal work.

Tips To Handle Common Flap-Management Problems

Wed, 07 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Although state-of-the-art equipment has made flap complications less likely, occasional problems are always inevitable, surgeons say. Here are some common flap-management problems surgeons encounter during and after LASIK and solutions to handle these problems.

Epi-LASIK Comes Out Ahead Of LASIK In Clinical Trials

Wed, 07 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

If refractive surgery patients want a safer procedure than LASIK, they may have to trade a little time for increased safety. Interim clinical trial results have been released for the Centurion SES Epikeratome (Norwood Abbey Ltd., Melbourne, Australia), which employs a dull plastic edge that sweeps across the cornea to separate a hinged sheet of epithelium rather than cutting deeper into the corneal stroma like traditional microkeratomes.

BIOLASE Announces 510k FDA Submission Of Its OCULASE MD(TM) For Ophthalmology

Tue, 06 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT

BIOLASE Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: BLTIE), a medical technology company that develops, manufactures and markets lasers and related products for dental and medical applications, announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is reviewing its regulatory submission related to the marketing clearance for the OCULASE MDT laser, designed to perform various indications for use in the fields of ophthalmology and oculoplasty.

Medical : New Lens Provides Visual Freedom For Cataract Patients

Tue, 30 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

"Elated" is the first word that comes to mind when Dr. Gordon Randall describes his feelings about his recent cataract surgery using the new AcrySof ReSTOR IOL. Dr. Michael Kelly, of The Kelly Eye Center, performed the surgery.

Alcon's NEVANAC Suspension Receives FDA Approval For Treatment Of Pain And Inflammation Associated With Cataract Surgery

Tue, 23 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE:ACL) announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its new drug application (NDA) for NEVANAC(TM) (nepafenac ophthalmic suspension) 0.1% for the treatment of pain and inflammation associated with cataract surgery. The approval came after a priority six month review.

New Lens Helping Area Cataract Surgery Patients See Better

Tue, 16 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Getting older often means losing your vision. Check out a new treatment that has one woman in Luzerne County seeing things in a whole new way.

Even Young Kids Should Wear Shades

Mon, 15 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Whenever they head outdoors, Cathy Bartz's two children always wear sunglasses.

FDA Approves New TECNIS(R) Foldable Acrylic Intraocular Lens For Cataract Patients

Mon, 15 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The TECNIS( R ) foldable acrylic IOL offers surgeons and their patients the same unique benefits as the TECNIS( R ) silicone IOL. AMO is the only company to market IOLs with a claim approved by the FDA for reduced spherical aberration and improved functional vision.

Princeton Eye Group Revolutionizes Cataract Surgery In Central New Jersey With Breakthrough Procedure

Thu, 11 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Y. Wong, M.D., of Princeton Eye Group is the first doctor in central New Jersey to use the AcrySof� ReSTOR� Intraocular Lens (IOL), a revolutionary new implant for cataract patients that restores both near and far vision.

FDA Approves New TECNIS(R) Foldable Acrylic Intraocular Lens For Cataract Patients

Wed, 10 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) (NYSE: EYE), today announced that the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the TECNIS(R) intraocular lens (IOL) on an acrylic platform.

Vitamins, Especially E, May Slow Cataract Progression

Wed, 10 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Taking vitamin E supplements, as well as a higher intake of the B vitamins riboflavin and thiamine, could slow cataract progession, suggest US researchers.

Cosmic Radiation Associated With Risk Of Cataract In Airline Pilots

Wed, 10 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Airline pilots have an increased risk of nuclear cataracts [common type of cataract, associated with aging] compared with non-pilots, and that risk is associated with cumulative exposure to cosmic radiation, according to a study in the August issue of the Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Blue Light Blocking Lenses Dim Elderly Vision

Tue, 09 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

New research at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) indicates intraocular lenses (IOL) that block blue light might prove detrimental for older persons in dim lighting conditions or at night.

Beat The Heat Before It Beats You

Tue, 09 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

When the mercury and humidity soar, it's smart to rethink your fitness regimen and exercise more caution than muscle to prevent heat-related health problems.

Nutrition Scientists Take A Look At Cataract Prevention

Tue, 09 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Age-related cataract, the world's leading cause of blindness, affects more than 20 million Americans over the age of 40 years. Surgical correction is currently the only known option for intervention, but researchers at the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University recently sought, in three different studies, to determine if prevention is possible. Their findings suggest that vitamins and polyunsaturated fatty acids--two categories of nutrients believed to have health benefits--may both affect cataract development, although not necessarily in beneficial ways.

Cosmic Radiation Associated With Risk Of Cataract In Airline Pilots

Mon, 08 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Airline pilots have an increased risk of nuclear cataracts [common type of cataract, associated with aging] compared with non-pilots, and that risk is associated with cumulative exposure to cosmic radiation, according to a study in the August issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Use Of Square-Edged IOLs Help Provide Decrease In PCO

Mon, 08 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The incidence of posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is lower than ever, thanks to advanced IOL designs, and better surgical technique.

Physicians Hopeful For Dual-Optic IOL

Mon, 08 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A dual-optic accommodating IOL has not been approved in Europe or the United States yet, but ophthalmologists are hopeful about its ability to expand the range of accommodation for cataract patients.

Momentum Continues For Accommodating IOLs

Mon, 08 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Lens refractive surgery continues to gain momentum. Newer multifocal IOLs offer us better options to help our presbyopic patients become less dependent on bifocals.

Matching Patients Lenses Key To Presbyopic Cataract IOL Use

Mon, 08 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Not all presbyopic lenses are created equal and cataract surgeons need to know the different lenses available before they begin to exercise their new option to implant the lenses in cataract patients, according to surgeons familiar with the technology.

Why Getting Older Is Getting Easier

Sun, 07 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

At age 67, I have joined the hip generation.

McDonald Eye Associates Planning Clinic Expansion

Fri, 05 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

McDonald Eye Associates soon will give patients much more to see.

Young Ukrainian Woman Finds Healing Of Many Kinds Of Scars

Fri, 05 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Diana Quinn's life didn't start out as much of a life.

Get The Lead Out

Thu, 04 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

There are a number of harmful effects associated with lead exposure. Now, a study has added the development of cataracts in older men.

Cataract Veggies

Thu, 04 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

By age 80, more than half of us will have experienced the cloudy world of cataracts. But researchers have found that eating leafy green veggies could help to protect your eyes from the sun and prevent cataracts.

From Behind New Eyes: Professionals Rave About Artificial Lens Available Locally

Mon, 01 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Harriet Campbell has spent most of her 84 years peering at the world through a pair of glasses.

Assess Car, Health Before Senior Outing

Mon, 01 Aug 2005 00:00:00 GMT

It's summer, and that means seniors across the country are taking to the road. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Household Travel Survey, nine of 10 summer getaways are car trips, and the average jaunt is 284 miles - each way. If you're planning on getting behind the wheel, there are important steps to take before you leave.

Eyes Need Sunblock, Too

Thu, 21 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The scientific evidence is piling up: long-term exposure to invisible ultraviolet radiation can damage our eyes and lead to vision loss.

Program Launched To Offer Free Treatment To Cataract Sufferers

Wed, 20 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A rescue program designed to help more cataract sufferers regain their eyesight has been launched in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

Cataract Patients Sue US Firm After Faulty Lenses Leave Them With Ruined Eyesight

Tue, 19 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Patients whose eyesight has been ruined by faulty artificial lenses implanted during cataract surgery are suing the American manufacturers.

Cooking With Unflued Stove Can Cause Cataract

Mon, 18 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

An interesting study done in Nepal and India has shown that the use of solid fuel in unflued indoor stoves is associated with increased risk of developing cataract in women who do the cooking. Cataract has been found to be widely prevalent in developing countries and especially among females. The present study examined the association between cooking with unflued indoor stoves and development of cataract.

Cataract Gets Young & Deadly

Mon, 18 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Rajesh Sharma is just 35. When he started complaining of blurred vision, family members thought that he must be having the usual power-related problems.

New Lens Implant Repairs Eyesight

Fri, 15 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Until this month, Linda Cockrell read the newspaper and other small print much like many of her fellow baby boomers - holding it at arm's length.

Eye Clinic Returns Home After Renovations

Fri, 15 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The Eye Clinic at the Cayman Islands Hospital has returned to its original building following extensive refurbishing in the aftermath of Hurricane Ivan, providing more comfort, convenience and space for additional services which will be introduced this summer.

Patients Wait To Join The Queue

Thu, 14 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

QUEENSLAND has an unofficial waiting list for elective surgery in public hospitals. Queensland Health Systems Review head Peter Forster conceded last night he knew of the issue despite denials by the Government that two waiting lists existed.

Lutein, Zeaxanthin Could Increase Heart Attack Risk

Wed, 13 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

New research from Harvard University has identified a link between dietary intake of lutein and zeaxanthin and an increased risk of heart attack, reports Jess Halliday - a finding that may have an impact on the eye health supplements market.

New Lens Implant Can Save Vision

Wed, 13 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

E Timor President Praises Eye Program Volunteers

Wed, 13 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The President of East Timor, Xanana Gusmao, has concluded his official visit to Australia paying tribute to volunteers who have treated 20,000 East Timorese for eye disease during the past five years

For Your Precious Eyes

Wed, 13 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Every five seconds someone in the world goes blind, yet in 80 per cent of cases this could be prevented or cured.

Facing Blindness, HB Man Gets A Lot Of Help And A Little Luck

Sun, 10 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Inflammation of the eyes, glaucoma and cataracts threaten avid surfer and painter with loss of vision and two favorite activities.

Local Surgeon Among First To Use New Intraocular Lens

Sat, 09 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A revolutionary advance in cataract surgery was introduced to this region by Glenn N. Pomerance, M.D. at Pomerance Eye Center, P.C., his office said. The Alcon AcrySof� ReSTOR� IOL is the first and only apodized diffractive intraocular lens (IOL) for cataract patients with and without presbyopia (the progressive loss of near vision with advancing age), it was stated.

All Eyes On Summer Sun Safety

Sat, 09 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

After slathering on the sunscreen, summer-lovin' Americans should take steps to protect their eyes from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, say experts at the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Major Advance Could Help Cataract Patients

Thu, 07 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Mike Whalen knew his vision was getting pretty blurry, especially at night."Glare on the headlights was tremendous to the point that I had to take the rearview mirror and just move it. I just couldn't take the lights coming up behind me and actually it was a danger," Whalen said.

Cataract Surgery Comes To Kenora

Thu, 07 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The Lake of the Woods District Hospital opened its ophthalmology surgery clinic on Wednesday, the second new surgical program unveiled at the hospital in two weeks.

Identify Infectious Keratitis Quickly To Avoid Problems

Wed, 06 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Suspect infectious keratitis when you see post-LASIK inflammation that does not resemble diffuse lamellar keratitis, surgeons recommend. Consider the possibility of infectious keratitis even if a patient presents with symptoms weeks after refractive surgery.

High Carb Diet Increases Risk Of Cataract Development In Elder Women

Mon, 04 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

While the low-carb fad wanes, new research suggests the higher the carbohydrate intake, the greater the risk an elder woman will develop cataracts.

Taking Care Of Your Eyes

Sun, 03 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Most people expect to encounter some gray hairs at a certain age. A wrinkle here and there. Some aches and pains, as arthritis or old sports injuries take their toll. But symptoms of aging eyes have a way of sneaking up on people.

WHC Now Providing Cataract Implants

Fri, 01 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The Eye Institute at Woodland Healthcare is the first in Yolo County to offer patients with cataracts a new unique technology, the Alcon ReSTOR IOL (intraocular lens) implant, specifically designed to restore both distance and near vision. These new implants were approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in late March.

Cataract Surgery In Yemen .present And Future

Fri, 01 Jul 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Cataract Surgery is usually required to restore full sight to individuals afflicted by cataract, a loss of transparency in the eye's lens. The surgeon cuts into the cornea and snips off a piece of the iris, the round membrane that covers the lens and gives the eye its individual color. After this procedure, called an iridectomy, the natural lens is removed with a small pair of forceps and replaced by a new plastic lens. A fine suture is then used to close the incision in the cornea.

Elective Surgery Queues Grow Longer

Thu, 30 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

PATIENTS throughout Australia are waiting longer to have elective surgery than they were six years ago. The worst performers were Tasmania and the ACT, where only 59 per cent and 72 per cent of patients were treated within what the federal Government recommends is a clinically appropriate time.

It's Often Difficult To See Eye Problems Coming: The Facts On 3 Common Ailments

Tue, 28 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Most people expect to encounter some gray hairs at a certain age. A wrinkle here and there. Some aches and pains, as arthritis or old sports injuries take their toll.

Laser Eye Surgery - Will Insurance Pay? - IROs Help Determine The Medical Necessity Of 'Cosmetic' Treatments

Tue, 28 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Eye wear may be a fashion accessory, but when you depend upon it for seeing the world, it's a lot more. Today, many people are turning to refractive laser eye surgery, such as Lasik surgery, to improve their vision.

Alcohol, Outdoor Work, Increase Cataract Risk, Study Suggests

Tue, 28 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Individuals who drink alcohol and work outdoors might have higher risks of developing cataracts, according to a study involving 687 men and 1,094 women living in Hisayama, Japan.

Govt Shifts Focus From Cataract To Childhood Blindness

Sun, 26 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

After achieving its target of reducing incidence of cataract, the government has recently revised the National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB) in the 10th five year plan to shift focus to childhood blindness, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and strengthening of eye banks.

HCMC Art Troupe In France Raises Funds For Poor-Sighted Children

Sat, 25 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Artists from HCM City gave an art and fashion show in Montreuil, France, on June 24 to raise funds for poor Vietnamese blind children.

STAAR Surgical Ships New Three-Piece Cataract Lens And Injector System

Fri, 24 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

STAAR Surgical Company , a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of minimally invasive ophthalmic products, today announced it has begun shipping its newly redesigned Three-Piece Collamer(R) lens, model CQ2015 along with the ONYX, a new injection system.

Study: Fruits, Veggies May Help Avoid Cataracts

Mon, 20 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Eating lots of fruits and vegetables may help avoid cataracts, say researchers in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

FIVE VISION TOPICS ADDED TO NIHSENIORHEALTH WEB SITE

Mon, 20 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Eye diseases and conditions leading to vision loss increase significantly with age, and the number of people with vision loss is expected to rise as the population grows older. To help older adults learn more about these conditions and vision loss, the NIHSeniorHealth Web site is adding five new topics on vision: glaucoma, cataract, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and low vision. Accurate, up-to-date information about these conditions is only a mouse click away at www.nihseniorhealth.gov.

PUFA Reduces Risk Of Cataract

Thu, 16 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential in maintaining the proper structure and function of cell membranes and hence has a role in delaying cataract. In fact animal studies have shown that high intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids delays the onset of cataracts. A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye. Age-related cataract is one of leading cause of blindness in the world today. Besides the physical handicap, cataract also represents enormous economic burden, both to the patient and to the country in terms of the operative procedures it requires.

Lions Clubs China Set Up In Beijing

Wed, 15 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The founding ceremony for "Lion Club China", an organization with the sole purpose of "We serve", was held on June 14 in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. A total of 400 participants including representatives of lion clubs from Chinese mainland, Hong Kong SAR, Macao SAR and major officials with Lion Clubs International have taken part in the ceremony.

Health Northwest: Cloudy Vision Could Mean A Cataract

Wed, 15 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Cataracts are one of the most common eye problems that affect humans as we age. By age 75, more than 70 percent of Americans have vision problems due to cataracts. Cataracts are even more common than other eye problems such as glaucoma and macular degeneration, but rarely cause blindness in this country because they can be treated.

Orphans Get Charity Help

Wed, 15 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Orphans in China have received a boost thanks to a US$250,000 donation from the US-based charity Lions Clubs International.

Newburgh, NY Eye Surgeon Offers Alcon's AcrySof(R) ReSTOR(R) Intraocular Lens For Cataract Correction

Tue, 14 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Mary Davidian, M.D., of Highland Ophthalmology Associates, a leading ophthalmic surgeon in Newburgh, announces the offering of Alcon's AcrySof(R) ReSTOR(R) Intraocular Lens (IOL) for cataract patients.

Norwood Eyecare Signs Agreement With Bausch & Lomb For Distribution Of Epi-LASIK In Australia And New Zealand

Tue, 07 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Norwood Abbey Limited (OTC:NABYF, ASX:NAL) today announced that its subsidiary, Norwood EyeCare and Bausch & Lomb (Australia) Pty. Ltd. have signed an agreement for the distribution of Norwood EyeCare's Epi-LASIK system (with EpiEdge(TM) disposable separator) in Australia and New Zealand.

Over 120,000 Treated Since Start Of Pioneering Treatment Centre Programme, UK

Mon, 06 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

More than 120,000 patients have been treated since the start of the government's pioneering treatment centre programme, at a rate up to eight times faster than traditional NHS providers, according to a new report published by Health Secretary John Reid today.

VisiJet Dba Advanced Refractive Technologies To Display

Mon, 06 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

VisiJet Inc. (OTCBB:VJET) dba Advanced Refractive Technologies (ART) will exhibit its main product and sponsor a symposium on the EpiLift System, for corrective eye surgery at the 2005 Symposium for Cataract, IOL and Refractive Surgery being sponsored by the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) and the American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators (ASOA) on April 15-20 at the Washington Convention Center. The ART booth (# 2819) will feature two wet labs for trial demonstrations.

Alcon Launches AcrySof ReSTOR Apodized Diffractive IOL

Mon, 06 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc., (NYSE:ACL) announced the launch of the AcrySof(R) ReSTOR(R) Intraocular Lens (IOL) at a press conference during the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) and the American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators (ASOA) Symposium in Washington.

Now A Hydrogel That Can Replace Sutures In Cataract Surgery

Mon, 06 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

People who have undergone cataract surgery can now avoid the complications associated with sutures, the most common repair method for incisions. A team of researchers has developed a novel, adhesive hydrogel that can be painted over incisions from cataract surgery and offers the potential for faster, improved repair.

Beyond Customized LASIK Surgery - Supervision

Mon, 06 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The ophthalmologist who pioneered customized LASIK surgery - supervision - now aims to further improve patients' eyesight and minimize the risk of side effects. Patients should benefit from several recent discoveries, Scott MacRae, M.D., told an audience of eye doctors in a keynote address at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology last month.

World's Largest Medical Eye Meeting To Be Held In New Orleans

Mon, 06 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

More than 25,000 people are expected to come together in New Orleans for the world's largest medical eye meeting, the Joint Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the European Society of Ophthalmology, Oct. 24 to 26 and the Academy's Subspecialty Day meetings in refractive surgery, retina and glaucoma Oct. 22 to 23.

Glue-Like Polymer Could Replace Sutures Used For Cataract Surgery

Sat, 04 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

People who need cataract surgery, but don't like the prospect of having their eyes sutured, may be in for some good news: A team of researchers has developed a novel, adhesive hydrogel that can be painted over incisions from cataract surgery and offers the potential for faster, improved repair, they say. The hydrogel may help avoid complications associated with sutures -- the most common repair method for those types of incisions -- or unsutured incisions that are left to heal on their own, another repair method of cataract surgery.

Revolutionary Lens Implant Restoring Sight For Cataract Patients

Thu, 02 Jun 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A new lens implant for the eye is giving cataract patients the vision of their youth, allowing them to put down their glasses for good. Medical Reporter Lori Lyle has more on this breakthrough in vision technology.

Bartolucci Pledges Money To Reduce Surgical Wait Times

Tue, 31 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Sudbury Regional Hospital patients might spend a little less time waiting for surgery now that the hospital has been given $3,992,391 by the provincial government, says Sudbury MPP Rick Bartolucci.

Funding Allows More Surgeries At STEGH

Sat, 28 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

St. Thomas-Elgin General Hospital will be able to perform 70 additional cataract surgeries and 12 additional hip and knee joint replacements, thanks to funding announced Friday by Steve Peters.

McGuinty Government Continues To Reduce Wait Times

Fri, 27 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The government is investing in the largest increase in cataract surgeries, hip and knee replacements and MRI exams in more than a decade, Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty announced today.

Doctors Offering Free Cataract Surgery

Thu, 26 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The doctors and staff of Weston Eye Center and the Vision Surgery Center in Roseburg will volunteer to participate in the Mission Cataract USA, providing free eye screenings and cataract surgery to low-income patients.

Hospital First In Area To Offer New Eye Surgery

Thu, 26 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Beloit Memorial Hospital will be the first hospital in the Stateline Area to perform a new eye surgery in June that will give patients a clearer view of the world.

What Is Cataract?

Thu, 26 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

"YOUR father has a cataract." It was my mother telling me over the phone. She was in my hometown, in the southern part of the Philippines. I was in New York City writing a paper on water and population. With a cracked voice, she told me, "The doctor suggested an eye surgery for him." I paused for a brief five seconds. "Okay," I told her.

Othera Pharmaceuticals Announces Results From First Human Phase I Trial For OT-551

Wed, 25 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Othera Pharmaceuticals, Inc. today announced that its Phase I Safety and Comfort Study of OT-551, a topical eye drop pharmaceutical, met its primary endpoints. Othera Pharmaceuticals is a privately-held ophthalmic pharmaceutical company developing proprietary drugs to treat or prevent the leading causes of blindness.

Dry-Eye Patients Require Special Care Before And After Refractive Surgery

Wed, 18 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Surgeons said they exhaust treatment options for dry-eye patients before they perform LASIK or other refractive procedures. Depending on the severity of the patient's dry eye, ointments, prescription medications, and punctal plugs are used pre-operatively to lessen dry-eye symptoms.

Dry-Eye Patients Require Special Care Before And After Refractive Surgery

Wed, 11 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics' ReZoom Lens To Benefit Cataract Patients Under New CMS Ruling On Presbyopic IOLs

Wed, 11 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics, (AMO) a global leader in ophthalmic surgical devices and eye care products, announced today that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) ruled that Medicare beneficiaries may choose to receive presbyopia-correcting intraocular lenses (IOLs) for an additional fee as part of cataract surgery. These lenses, including AMO's ReZoom(TM) multifocal IOL, provide vision for distance, intermediate and near ranges.

Older Adults With Diabetes In Managed Care Networks Have Higher Rates Of Untreated Eye Disease

Tue, 10 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Medicare beneficiaries at high risk for eye disease due to diabetes are more likely to have unrecognized and untreated eye disease if they are enrolled in managed care than if they have fee-for-service (FFS) health insurance, according to an article in the May issue of Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Advanced Medical Optics Wins Patent Infringement Suit Against Alcon

Fri, 06 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) , announced today that it has won its case against Alcon Manufacturing, Ltd. and Alcon Laboratories, Inc. for infringement on two AMO patents for phacoemulsification equipment used during cataract surgery.

Is Bimanual Phaco A Viable Procedure?

Wed, 04 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Cataract surgeons discuss why bimanual phaco should - or should not - be a part of physicians' surgical arsenal.

UCI Eye Doctors Invent Laser-Assisted Cornea-Transplant Surgery

Tue, 03 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A UC Irvine ophthalmologist and his team have invented a new laser-surgery technique to perform cornea-transplant surgery that can replace the use of traditional handheld surgical blades and potentially improve recovery time for patients.

Halozyme Therapeutics Presents RHuPH20 Hyaluronidase Preclinical Data At The 2005 Association For Research In Vision And Ophthalmology Annual Meeting

Mon, 02 May 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. , a development stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of recombinant human enzymes, today announced that results from new preclinical studies with Halozyme's recombinant human PH20 (rHuPH20) hyaluronidase enzyme were presented at the 2005 Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) annual meeting in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The data were presented by Emily Varnell, Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC) School of Medicine in New Orleans, based on work conducted under the direction of Herbert E. Kaufman, MD, Boyd Professor of Ophthalmology and Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics at the LSUHSC School of Medicine.

Repairing Vision

Wed, 27 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

LASIK, the common name for Laser-Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis, is a procedure that uses lasers to repair optical abnormalities in the eye. Custom LASIK uses a wave-front analyzer, a piece of equipment that measures abnormalities in the eye, to generate an individualized or customized map of the eye before the surgical process begins.

Alcon Launches AcrySof(r) ReSTOR(r) Apodized Diffractive IOL Revolutionary Apodized Diffractive Technology Provides Highest Level Of Freedom From Glasses

Tue, 26 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc., (NYSE: ACL) announced the launch of the AcrySof(r) ReSTOR(r) Intraocular Lens (IOL) at a press conference during the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) and the American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators (ASOA) Symposium in Washington, D.C.

ISTA Pharmaceuticals Announces Xibrom Phase III Data To Be Presented At The 2005 Association For Research In Vision And Ophthalmology (ARVO) Annual Meeting

Tue, 26 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. today announced that data on Xibrom(TM) (bromfenac ophthalmic solution) 0.09%, the Company's topical, twice-daily, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory solution (NSAID), will be presented at the 2005 annual meeting of The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) in Fort Lauderdale, FL later this week. In March 2005, Xibrom was approved by the Food & Drug Administration for the treatment of ocular inflammation following cataract surgery.

New Corrective Eye Surgery Technology Frees People Of Glasses Even Past Age 50, Says Multifocal LASIK Expert

Wed, 20 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Are you over forty five or fifty years old? Are your arms too short? Does someone else have to read the menu for you in the restaurant? Do you have nine pairs of reading glasses? You have presbyopia. There is help for you.

NEVANAC Suspension Clinical Data Presented At Eye Care Conference; FDA Accepts NDA For Priority Review

Wed, 20 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Alcon, Inc. (NYSE:ACL) presented Phase III clinical data on its investigational new drug, NEVANAC(TM) (nepafenac 0.1% ophthalmic suspension) at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons in Washington, D.C. The clinical data were included in two presentations, one given by Stephen S. Lane, M.D., Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology, University of Minnesota and another by Satish Modi, M.D., F.R.C.S.(C).

Clinical Studies Show Efficacy And Safety Of Norwood Eyecare Epikeratome

Wed, 20 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Norwood Abbey Limited subsidiary, Norwood EyeCare, the innovative ophthalmic devices company announced results of three clinical studies this week at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) meeting, held April 15-20 at the Washington Convention Center (Washington, D.C). All three studies employed Norwood EyeCare's Epikeratome for Epi-LASIK. The study results -- including the evaluation of visual acuity, pain, haze and corneal sensitivity -- suggest that Epi-LASIK with the Norwood EyeCare Epikeratome is a safe and effective modality for the treatment of low and moderate myopia (short-sightedness), based on a one-year follow up.

Laser Refractive Surgery Is A Safe, Effective Way To Correct Myopia, Hyperopia And Astigmatism

Wed, 20 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Hopkins researchers have found that patients experiencing vision problems following cataract removal and intraocular lens implantation (CE-IOL) may have better results from laser refractive surgery, which spares them potential complications of lens implant replacement and the inconvenience of glasses.

Video: US Armed Forces Unite To Improve Soldiers Vision

Tue, 19 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Navy Refractive Surgery program recently presented data at the 31st Annual Symposium of American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery that showed "custom" (also known as wavefront-guided) laser vision correction produces superior outcomes compared to traditional laser vision correction surgeries. Wavefront-guided digital technology can measure imperfections in the eye never measured before using standard methods for glasses and contact lenses. It identifies and measures imperfections in an eye 25 times more precisely than the standard method. Physicians use this information during custom LASIK procedures.

Tea May Help Prevent Diabetes And Cataracts

Mon, 18 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Add another line to the list of benefits from drinking tea: New research in animals suggests that tea may be a simple, inexpensive means of preventing diabetes and its ensuing complications, including cataracts. The report, scheduled to appear in the May 4 print issue of the American Chemical Society's Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, was published March 31 on the journal's Web site. ACS is the world's largest scientific society.

Halozyme Therapeutics Announces RHuPH20 Hyaluronidase Preclinical Data Presented At The 2005 American Society Of Cataract & Refractory Surgery Symposium And Congress

Mon, 18 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. , a development stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of recombinant human enzymes, announced today that results from new preclinical studies with Halozyme's recombinant human PH20 (rHuPH20) hyaluronidase enzyme were presented earlier today at the 2005 American Society of Cataract & Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Symposium on Cataract, IOL and Refractive Surgery, American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators (ASOA) Congress on Ophthalmic Practice Management, and the Clinical and Surgical Staff Program in Washington, D.C. The data were presented at the ASCRS Innovators Session by Herbert E. Kaufman, MD, Boyd Professor of Ophthalmology and Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics at the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine in New Orleans.

NIDEK Receives FDA Marketing Clearance For NIDEK MC-300 - Multicolor Laser Photocoagulator

Sun, 17 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

NIDEK Inc., a U.S. leader in advanced ophthalmic laser technologies announced today that it received FDA marketing clearance for commercial release of its new MC-300 Multicolor Laser Photocoagulator System. The new laser will continue to establish NIDEK as a comprehensive laser provider for the fast growing retinal laser market. The MC-300 laser system has been commercially available in international markets and has received outstanding reviews and clinical results from retinal specialists in Asia and Europe.

ISTA Pharmaceuticals Announces Xibrom Phase III Data To Be Presented At The 2005 American Society For Cataract And Refractive Surgery Symposium & Congress

Fri, 15 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. today announced that data on Xibrom(TM) (bromfenac ophthalmic solution) 0.09%, the Company's topical, twice-daily, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory solution (NSAID), will be presented at the 2005 American Society for Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Symposium on Cataract, IOL and Refractive Surgery, ASOA Congress on Ophthalmic Practice Management, and Clinical & Surgical Staff Program in Washington, D.C. next week. In March 2005, Xibrom was approved by the Food & Drug Administration for the treatment of ocular inflammation following cataract surgery. Details for the ASCRS podium presentations featuring Xibrom are as follows:

New Lasik Research Reveals Unexpected Finding: Key To Better-Than-20/20 Vision Is In The Flap

Wed, 13 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

New scientific data being presented at this year's ASCRS meeting reveals the key to a better-than-20/20 outcome in LASIK surgery may depend on whether your doctor uses a blade or a laser to create the corneal flap in the first step of the procedure.

Manufacturers Aim To Add To Approved CTRs

Wed, 13 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Cataract cases with extreme zonular loss are the target of alternative capsular tension ring (CTR) designs now under consideration. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering three versions of the Cionni CTR (Morcher, Stuttgart, Germany) - Types 1L, 2L, and 2C - designed to stabilize the capsular bag in cases of damaged or missing zonules.

A Close Look At Refractive Lens Exchange

Wed, 13 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

We documented that we could use approximately 1/1,000th of the power levels previously reported in the literature and not only achieve the ability to remove cataracts of all nuclear density grades, but also to dramatically enhance our results with respect to clear corneas and uncorrected visual acuities in the two- to 24-hour post-op period.

Advanced Medical Optics Adds To Its Market-Leading Portfolio Of Refractive IOLs With FDA Approval Of The ReZoom Multifocal Refractive Lens

Wed, 06 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Advanced Medical Optics, Inc. (AMO) (NYSE: AVO), a global leader in ophthalmic surgical devices and eye care products, today added to its market-leading portfolio of refractive intraocular lenses (IOLs) with the announcement that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the ReZoom(TM) multifocal refractive IOL for cataract patients.

Incision Site Affects Corneal Changes After Surgery

Wed, 06 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Corneal aberrations after small-incision cataract surgery do not systematically decrease corneal optical quality, according to a new study.

Step-By-Step Guide To Insert CTRs

Wed, 06 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Since the Food and Drug Administration last year approved the use of capsular tension rings (CTRs), more surgeons have sought information on how to use these adjunctive devices in cataract surgery. Currently, a handful of CTRs are approved for use in the U.S. While various surgeons prefer certain rings, most agree on a standard protocol for use.

Strategies For Insertion Of Phakic IOLs

Wed, 06 Apr 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Patients that are not candidates for LASIK have a new option these days in the form of phakic IOLs. But how many know the proper way to perform the complicated surgery with a small IOL?

Post-LASIK IOP Measurements May Help Detect PISK

Wed, 30 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT

If a LASIK patient appears a week or more after surgery with symptoms similar to those of diffuse lamellar keratitis (DLK), you may want to check their IOPs. They may have pressure-induced intralamellar stromal keratitis (PISK).

C-Cap, Wavefront Provide Answers For Decentered Ablations

Wed, 30 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT

What do you do when faced with a patient who has a decentered ablation? While this is not something that happens often, the frustration for many years has been a lack of available treatment for such patients. Recently, however, things have begun to change. Practitioners now have options such as topographically guided approaches and state-of-the-art wavefront at their disposal.

Epithelial Ingrowths: Beware The Warning Signs

Wed, 30 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Although somewhat rare, epithelial ingrowths continue to threaten cataract and refractive patients in a variety of ways. One of the most common threats from epithelial incursions occur in post-operative LASIK patients. A surgeon with extensive experience in such cases, Edward J. Holland, M.D., professor of ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, said surgeons can pre-operatively identify those most likely affected with the abnormal growth.

Bad Handwriting Kills Thousands

Mon, 21 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Roughly 7,000 people die in the United States annually because they got the wrong prescription medicine, and the medicine was largely misprescribed because of poor handwriting. So said Larry Augustin, CEO of hospital data organization systems maker Medsphere Systems, during a panel presentation at PC Forum. Overall, 100,000 people die annually in the states due to preventable causes, he said. Better databases and automated procedures could put a dent into that.

Point: Wavefront Measurement Debate Pits Zernike Against Fourier

Wed, 09 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT

A study of higher-order aberrations in normal and complex eyes suggests that effective wavefront measurement is at least as dependent on specificity as it is on sensitivity. More specifically, the study showed that description of wavefront data beyond the sixth order becomes almost too sensitive, with the potential for compromised outcomes.

Restasis: It's Not Just For Dry Eye Anymore, Practitioners Say

Wed, 09 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT

While Restasis (Allergan, Irvine, Calif.) is well known as the only product that treats the systemic source of dry eye - not just the symptoms - by increasing tear production suppressed by ocular inflammation, some surgeons have found other important uses for the drug. Indeed, the maladies treated are almost as diverse as individual ophthalmologists.

Post-LASIK IOP Measurements May Help Detect PISK

Wed, 09 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT

C-Cap, Wavefront Provide Answers For Decentered Ablations

Wed, 09 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Epithelial Ingrowths: Beware The Warning Signs

Wed, 09 Mar 2005 00:00:00 GMT

VISX CustomVueT Hyperopia Procedure Approved By The FDA

Wed, 02 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT

VISX announced that it has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat hyperopia and hyperopic astigmatism with the VISX CustomVue Hyperopic LASIK procedure.

Cataract Treatment Much Improved

Wed, 02 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Ophthalmologists say it's never too late to be aware of the problems that cataracts can cause and the methods available for correcting them.

Doctors Continue To Enhance Cataract Treatments

Wed, 02 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Medical advances continue to offer brighter hope for the treatment of a cataract, the clouding of a lens that can damage vision. For instance, sound is one of the best things to ever happen for cataract sufferers. Surgical advances utilizing ultrasonic devices have made it easier than ever to remove and replace a cataract-clouded lens, medical experts say.

The Wavefront Analysis

Wed, 02 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT

In case you've missed it, it is Cataract Awareness Month. Cataracts are a common problem among elderly, diabetics, etc. One of the most common ways to treat cataracts involves surgery, during which a new intraocular lens is implanted.

First LASIK System Designed To Eliminate Night Time Glare Comes To The Tri-State Area

Wed, 02 Feb 2005 00:00:00 GMT

One of the most common complaints following LASIK treatment is poor night vision, such as glare and halos that often occur while driving. Pamel Vision and Laser Group(TM) is the first center in New York City and the Tri-State area to offer a new LASIK technology that has been shown to reduce or eliminate optical distortions known as spherical aberration -- a chief cause of night time glare. Designed and engineered in Germany and called the ALLEGRETTO WAVE(TM), it is the world's only vision correction system specifically designed to maintain the natural shape of each individual's cornea, resulting in sharper vision, in both daylight and dim light conditions.

Asthma Inhalers May Raise Cataract Risk

Wed, 26 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT

People who use steroid inhalers, a common treatment for asthma, may be increasing their odds of developing cataracts, a potentially serious eye problem, new research shows. However, with low doses and short treatment periods, the risk appears to be small.

Information About Cataracts

Wed, 19 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide, but they are one of the most curable causes of vision loss, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Ophthalmologist Dr. Kenneth A. Jones, who is on staff at Baxter Regional Medical Center, said cataracts are so common, almost everybody he examines who is over 65 has some aspect of cataract changes.

What's On Your Plate May Help Save Your Sight

Mon, 10 Jan 2005 00:00:00 GMT

When thinking about new year's resolutions and getting back into shape, don't forget about your eyesight. According to the National Eye Institute, more than 22 million Americans suffer from cataracts and the irreversible affects of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of acquired blindness in the United States. Currently there is no permanent effective treatment or cure for the condition, but there's plenty you can do to preserve your vision.