 San Diego County Optometric Society |
The San Diego ViewSeptember 2018 |
Inside this Issue:
- President’s Message
- Retina Corner
- Tech Corner
- Eye See
- Supporting Future Leaders of Optometry
- CE Corner
- Classifieds
- Volunteer Corner
- SDCOS Announcements
- Upcoming Events
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President’s Message
September 2018 |
I believe that the San Diego County Optometric Society is one of the top societies in the state, if not the best. I am convinced that our society’s greatness is, in large part, thanks to two pillars of our foundation.
The first being the incredible group of doctors that form our membership. San Diego is a melting pot of wonderful people from all over the country and it stands to reason that our membership is an equally wonderful group of professionals that reflects that same principle. Our members continue to be philanthropic, motivated, politically active, and supportive of the community and each other. Through member help and support, we are able to continue our volunteer opportunities (Monarch School, Lions Optometric Vision Clinic, Braille Institute, Annual Golf Tournament, etc.), our comprehensive Continuing Education events, as well as maintaining a supportive and welcoming environment for new and existing members. I would like to encourage any of our current members who would like to be more involved in the society and the many different functions that we perform, to serve on our Board of Directors. The Board is a group of volunteer doctors (myself included) who give their time to ensure the society continues to have these great events and resources so that our members can benefit. If anyone is interested in joining the Board, please do not hesitate to reach out to me, other current members of the Board, or Nancy-Jo at the registration table.
The second pillar that makes us one of the premier societies is our sponsors. SDCOS is fortunate to have so many wonderful sponsors. In large part to our sponsors, we are able to fund the many functions that our society performs up to and including the quality and amount of Continuing Education courses that we are able to provide to our members. I want to encourage members to engage all of our sponsors and give them the opportunity to show you how they can help your practice and your patients. Aside from being a great group of people, our sponsors are invaluable resources and we can all benefit from their individual expertise. I encourage all of our members to show our sponsors how much we appreciate their support by supporting them in return.
On behalf of the SDCOS, I would like to again thank all of our sponsors for their continued support. Only through our great members and sponsors are we able to continue to be one of the best societies in the entire state.
Please save the date for our annual holiday party. This year’s event will be at the San Diego Zoo on December 1st. More details to follow as we get closer to the event date.
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Retina Corner
Retina Corner: Highlights From The 2018 American Society of Retina Specialists Meeting |
By Nikolas J.S. London, MD FACS
Director of Clinical Research, Retina Consultants San Diego
Chief of Ophthalmology, Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla
The 36th annual American Society of Retina Specialists meeting wrapped up back in July and covered some fascinating new data with a nice focus on minimizing treatment burden in many regards. Last month we reviewed one of the potential upcoming drugs for wet AMD, brolucizumab, which promises a longer interval between injections at about 12 weeks for half of patients. On this same note, we have a few very exciting clinical trials coming up – the ARCHWAY study is a phase 3 trial looking at a port delivery system (PDS) of the AMD drug ranibizumab (Lucentis). I touched on this briefly last month. This is a surgically-implanted reservoir that is refillable in the clinic. In the phase 2 study, patients treated with the highest dose of the drug (100mg/mL) had similar visual and anatomic outcomes to monthly Lucentis injections, with a striking 80% of patients able to go 6 months before needing a refill of the reservoir! We are starting to recruit patients for this trial now if you have any new wet AMD patients. It may be an outstanding opportunity with all expenses covered by the company. Another exciting trial coming up for our wet AMD patients that was not presented at the meeting is a phase 1/2 study looking at intravitreal depot formulation of a drug called sunitinib. Similar to the above ARCHWAY study, the hope here is that patients only need to be treated every six months. This study should also be recruiting soon.
Shifting to retinal detachment repair, another way to minimize treatment burden for patients is through the increased use of pneumatic retinopexy compared to scleral buckling or vitrectomy. As brief background, pneumatic retinopexy is an office-based method of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repair where a retinal break is treated with cryopexy or laser and a gas bubble is used to tamponade the break. This technique was innovated by none other than our very own Paul Tornambe, and has worldwide popularity with many significant advantages. It can be done immediately for patients, has low morbidity and risk, is significantly less expensive than options that involve a trip to the operating room (thousands of dollars), and has superior visual outcomes compared to other options. Further evidence for this was presented at the meeting. The PIVOT trial was prospectively compared RRD repair by pneumatic retinopexy (PR, 81 eyes) or pars plana vitrectomy (PPV, 80 eyes) in superior retinal detachments (RDs) with single or grouped breaks. The authors previously reported success rates, noting a 12% higher single-surgery success with vitrectomy, but a 99% final success rate for both groups. Composite visual function testing scores were presented at this year’s meeting and favored PR at 3 and 6 months with particular advantages in distance activities, mental health, and peripheral vision. They conclude that PR patients have superior visual functioning in the first 6 months after surgery compared to those undergoing PPV for RRD repair. We agree with these data and find PR to be an excellent and underutilized option for many patients.
Well, I find myself out of room for another month – so much cool stuff, I feel like I could continue forever! There is always next month.
Thanks again for reading. Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions.
Best wishes, and until next time,
Nik
Nikolas London, MD
Retina Consultants San Diego, Poway, La Jolla, and Coronado
www.retinaconsultantssd.com
858-451-1911 (office)
415-341-5456 (cell)
nik.london@gmail.com (personal email)
retinaconsultantssd@gmail.com (RCSD email)
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Tech Corner
Got Tech questions? We’ve got Answers! |
Stay Tuned For Next Month!
Reach out. You can reach Dave directly at (619-905-4468) or dave@GSWS.com.
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Eye See written by Dr. Byron Y. Newman ALLERGIC BLEPHARITIS AND NAIL POLISH |
Some years ago, I researched a story from a medical journal called “Cortlandt Forum” which printed letters from their readers about special cures and treatments. In one issue, Anne Kammeyer, MD of Maryville, WA, wrote in that she was taught to look for nail polish on the fingers of patients who exhibit allergic blepharitis.
“Apparently,” she wrote, “The nail polish remover (as well as the polish) can be toxic to the eyelids,:” And, Manufacturers have discovered we touch our eyes around 200 times a day.
On a question from the internet, I found the following ABOUT THESE ALLERGIES:
Are only my nails at risk?
Far from it – often it is the eye area that suffers allergic reactions to varnish, varnish remover or adhesives, says Dr Tamara Griffiths, consultant dermatologist for the British Skin Foundation.
Allergy to nail varnish can show itself as an itchy flaky eruption around the eyes – not the nails – and therefore may go undetected,’ she says. This is because we constantly touch our eyes, transferring the allergens, and the skin is very thin there so they penetrate easily.
Dr Griffiths says: ‘You can develop an allergy after years of problem-free use, but once the allergy develops, the reaction will be repeated with any exposure to the offending agent. Frequent exposure to chemicals in manicure products such as varnish and gels may increase one’s risk. Once an allergy develops, it is irreversible.’
Check out Dr. Newman’s website, www.thehumorfactory.com!!!
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Supporting Future Leaders of Optometry |
Congratulations to the 2018 Dr. Marvin R. Poston Leadership award winners!
(Left to right: Fayiz Mahgoub, Jeromica Ward, Marlene Bell—Dr.Poston’s daughter, Nicole Akpunku, Astiney Franklin. Not pictured: Chizoba Heather Ogoke)
These up-and-coming leaders maintain active leadership roles with the National Optometric Student Association (NOSA) and have committed to a career in leadership and service to the profession of private-practice optometry. The recipients received a one-time financial award of $4,000. “Dr. Poston believed success in optometry requires strong role models, academic perseverance, mentoring, and a passion for eye care,” said Jarrett Johnson, OD, MPH, VSP Global board member, and long-time NOA member. “Through this award, we are honoring his legacy by continuing to create opportunities for the next generation of doctors of optometry.” Over the last eleven years, VSP Global® has provided more than $1.5 million in scholarship support to hundreds of optometry students in the U.S. and is committed to honoring Dr. Poston’s vision of diversifying the optometric industry. To learn more about VSP programs that support the profession, visit VSPGlobal.com.
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CE CornerWe are committed to helping you fulfill your CE requirements through our local meeting with the support of our sponsors! |
Featured Annual Sponsors
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September 20th, 2 Hr – Neuro-optometry
Speaker: Dr. Mark Sawamura
Course description: 10 Steps for a Better Neuro Exam 2-hours
Neuro-ophthalmic conditions are potentially life or vision threatening and pose a challenge to the practitioner since it relies on astute clinical skills as well as the application of neuroanatomical knowledge. The most common neuro-ophthalmic disorders that optometrists encounter are optic neuropathies, pupillary dysfunction, ptosis, and diplopia. Many times these conditions are overlooked or missed due to the subtle clinical signs. This presentation focuses on strategies to improve diagnostic evaluation of patients presenting with neuro-ophthalmic dysfunction through cases and clinical pearls.
See 2018 CE schedule.
Continuing Education Seminars are at the Handlery Hotel 950 Hotel Circle North, San Diego, 92108.
Two-hour seminar, Thursday, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm. Buffet meal included and served ½ hour prior to lecture.
- SDCOS Members free, COA/AOA Members $35.00, Non-Members $130.00.
Five-hour seminar, Sunday, 8:00 am – 1:30 pm. Buffet meal included and served ½ hour prior to lecture.
- SDCOS Members $90.00. COA/AOA Members, $90.00 Non-Members $325.00.
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Classifieds |
Optometrist needed Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays in the Mission Valley Costco. Please send resume to rslikker@san.rr.com (10/18)
For Sale Clear Path instrument. Originally $21K new three years ago. Asking $9500/obo. Please contact 760-729-4327 or villageidoc@sbcglobal.net (10/18)
Want to start your practice with no initial expense? Have an interest in Vision Therapy? Long established practice will cover overhead expenses while you build your practice within our office. We will be relocating the office in March 2020, so you will have input into the design and new location. We have a full scope practice that includes Vision Therapy and would prefer an optometrist that would like to provide and promote Vision Therapy services. Ideally, this should lead to a partnership or buyout. Please send your C.V and Resume to djaniuk@pacbell.net (10/18)
Practice for sale: North County Carlsbad “Upscale” Practice established in 1982. Great opportunity to buy a practice in a well-desired location with great visibility and walk-in traffic. Only two miles to the ocean! The owner is interested in an immediate sale or will consider a buy-in or possibly merge with another practice. I am looking to retire but will consider a part-time position to make the transition easier. Center is well established with Vons market and Movie theatres as anchors. Don’t miss this opportunity to own your dream practice! Email: bluesdoch@yahoo.com or call 760-310-8492. (09/18)
Practice for sale –long-established practice in La Mesa–time to retire–will work part-time if the buyer wants–owner interested in an immediate sale–price is right–don’t miss this opportunity to own your own practice for very small investment. 619 743-1442 email drlevy@pacbell.net (9/18)
As part of the “I See My Future” project, Southwestern College is seeking a Special Project Curriculum Developer/Instructor with experience in the field of Optometry (retired or practicing). The goal of the program is to educate/train 50 students in the eye care field. The scope of the project involves developing a 75-hour curriculum that trains program participants for careers in ophthalmic technology. The course is to begin November 5, 2018, and conclude by April 26, 2019. Instruction is to be provided to two cohorts of 25 students each in two locations-one on the east and one on the west side of Chula Vista-one in the morning and one in the evening. This project was made possible by a grant to the South County Economic Development Council. Project compensation and more details can be obtained by contacting John Pack, O.D. at jpackod@yahoo.com (619) 806-1282 Deadline for application is August 10, 2018. (09/18)
Fill In OD Needed: Private sublease practice inside Target Optical Santee. Dates needed are September 20, 22, 23, 25. Likely more days available for the right match. Brand new office, light patient flow, automated equipment, EHR. Please email CV to drkellykeane@gmail.com if interested. (09/18)
Dr. John Fitzpatrick, the Society Optometrist Relations Liaison, offers a unique service to the San Diego Optometric community. Several lists are kept on file for doctors seeking the following, or any combination: • full-time work • part-time work • fill-in work • purchase a practice • sell a practice • partner in a practice. There is no charge for this service. To put your name on the list, please contact Dr. John Fitzpatrick at jpfod@aol.com
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Volunteer Corner |
Monarch School Screening
Monarch screening September 24th (Need 1 OD)
Monarch exams October 15-16 (Need 1 OD/day)
Contact Dr. Bob Meisel for more information at rmeisel@netscape.net ; www.monarchschools.org
Flying Samaritan Optometry Clinic – Tecate, Mexico
The SDSU Flying Samaritans are asking for any optometrists that would be willing to volunteer on Saturdays and accompany other volunteers to their optometry clinic in Tecate, Mexico. It is not necessary to be fluent in Spanish, a translator can be provided. The clinic is located about 40 miles southeast of SDSU. Their goal is to provide free eye exams, glasses, and access to other free medical benefits to the underserved communities of Baja California. Please contact Dr. Bob Meisel if you are interested or have any further questions!
Lion’s Optometric Vision Clinic
ATTENTION LOVC VOLUNTEER DOCTORS
FREE 5-hour CE for SDCOS Members (maximum of 2 CE’s per year)
$70 off for Non-Members choice of 2 or 5 HR CE
VOLUNTEER DOCTORS needed for flexible shifts throughout the year. 9-1:00 pm. Monday -Friday 1805 Upas St San Diego, CA 92103. Can’t volunteer at the clinic? See patients in your office. Call 619-298-5273.
DONATE GLASSES
Please bring to a CE meeting or contact the society office at 619-663-8439 for arrangements to pick up.
SDCOS keeps a list of all doctors willing to speak in front of groups about various topics, do home visits for patients, and assist in student mentoring. ODs interested in the Speakers Bureau, Home Visits, Student mentoring, and Low Vision OD’s, please contact the society office at 619-663-8439 or email sdcos@sdcos.org
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SDCOS Announcements |
Vision Mission to Nairobi
SDCOS board member Bob Meisel recently joined two other ODs, including Melody Tavakoli of San Diego and four non-ophthalmic personnel from three different states for a vision mission to Nairobi, Kenya’s capital. Through his Lions club connections in Kenya, Iowa Lion Mark Klever arranged for students at four all girls secondary schools to be screened and examined for eye wear. The first school was at an orphanage and served an amazing group of girls, while the other three were predominately boarding schools with wonderfully mannered young ladies.
Nearly 800 pair of spherical Rxs were brought for dispensing, with mostly low minus and plus lenses but also covering a large range of higher powers.
At the end of four days, nearly 1150 girls ranging in age from 13 to 19 were evaluated, 220 Rxs were dispensed and nearly 117 referred to the Nairobi Lions Club for fabrication of lenses, mostly due to high astigmatism. In almost every case, the young ladies would not have had the opportunity to be examined and provided with eye wear without our group efforts.
The most striking example was a young lady with a previously undiagnosed -12.00 refractive error.
It’s always inspiring to see young faces when they first experience more clarity and more comfortable vision.
Following the vision clinics, the group visited some game preserves near Nairobi as well as seeing the Karen Blixen museum (author of “Out of Africa”).
The world renowned Masai Mara game reserve and Lake Nakuru game reserve were home for five days of amazing safari encounters with truly magnificent animals and scenery.
It was an outstanding trip in all regards and very rewarding for everyone!
If interested in going on future volunteer trips, contact rmeisel@netscape.net
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Upcoming Events |
Contact Us
Phone: 619 663 8439
Fax: 800 643 8301
Email: sdcos@sdcos.org
Platinum Sponsors
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Sustaining Sponsors
