Sulcus Placement of Glaucoma Drainage Device

Ahmed Samir, MD

Eyetube

In this case, 10-0 flanged prolene sutures were used to guide precise placement of an Ahmed valve in the sulcus.

The State of Optometry’s Financial Health

Five takeaways from the largest income survey conducted in optometry.

Aaron Neufeld, OD

Modern Optometry

Between late 2023 and early 2024, ODs on Finance conducted a large income and net worth survey of optometrists (see Get the Full Picture). A total of 1,912 optometrists responded, and the results were eye opening, to say the least. Some of the results are promising, in terms of the fiscal viability of our profession, while other areas seem to be in definite need of improvement, and all of this is punctuated by what we believe to be a significant gap in financial education.

Healthy Habits for Glaucoma Patients

Moderation and communication are key.

Valentina Lozano, MD

Glaucoma Today

Glaucoma surgeons often field questions from patients regarding health and lifestyle practices. Examples of inquiries include the following: “Are there vitamins or supplements I can take to prevent glaucoma?” “What kind of exercises can I perform?” “Can stress affect my glaucoma?” and “Does marijuana help with glaucoma?” Patients may receive short answers or generalized guidance such as, “Eat healthy, exercise regularly, and try to relax.” Understandably, they may feel uncertain about these vague instructions and unclear on what is best for their eye health. The challenge for glaucoma specialists is that it can be difficult to answer the questions definitively. We practice evidence-based medicine, meaning that any recommendation we make to patients is supported by substantial data. Research on lifestyle and glaucoma, however, is limited. To make the situation more complex, we still do not fully understand glaucoma. It is not just one eye condition but a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve. Some patients have increased IOP, whereas others have normal IOP and abnormal blood flow to the optic nerve. Until we understand glaucoma well enough to make conclusive lifestyle recommendations, some general wellness principles can be adopted by patients looking to optimize their health. Nutritionist and wellness expert Nancy Lin, PhD, separates healthy living into five pillars: (1) physical, (2) nutritional, (3) environmental, (4) mental/emotional, and (5) spiritual.