The Tried, True, New, & Still to Debut: A Review of Contemporary Optometry

Sight & Sound: A Merging of the Senses (1 hr)

What if there were a quick, painless, noninvasive, relatively inexpensive, decently reimbursed, easy-to-perform test that could diagnose numerous ophthalmic diseases, and even potentially treat some?  And what if that technology provided clinically useful information that no other instrument at our disposal does?  Join us to explore the ins and outs of this procedure, including its indications, procedural techniques, instrument settings, clinical ground rounds, and coding and billing tips.

Lasers and the Eyes: Understanding Science, Choosing Patients, & Performing Procedures (2 hrs)

Let’s discuss the science behind lasers, review their uses in and around the eyes, recall potential contraindications and complications (including how to minimize and manage them), watch videos of laser surgeries being performed, and explore surgical techniques While numerous lasers are discussed, special attention is given to YAG capsulotomy, YAG laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI), and selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT).

Modern Aesthetics for the Optometric Physician (1 hr)

The scope of therapies Doctors of Optometry can offer patients to simultaneously correct ophthalmic disorders, enhance ocular function, and improve cosmetic appearance of the eye and its adnexa have exponentially increased. This course provides a broad overview of optometric aesthetic therapies, such as oral and topical medications, over-the-counter remedies, injectable neuromodulators, radio frequency technology, intense pulsed light, and plasma ablation, among others.

“Skinny” Genes & “Clearance” Cells (1 hr)

We’ll review the background, history, and breakthroughs occurring in the areas of nanotechnology, cell therapy (a.k.a. stem cells), and gene therapy, with a focus on their potential impact on eye care. Topics include the possible risks and benefits of these cutting edge technologies, how they work, and the results of recently published clinical trials and studies pertinent to eye care.

All Things Eyelid: Lumps, Bumps, & Lid Procedures (1 hr)

Commonly encountered lid pathologies will be reviewed, including their characteristics and differential diagnoses, as well as options and techniques for treatment of each. From home- and office-based therapies, to pharmaceutical interventions, to surgical options, we’ll discuss all thing eye lid, including devices, injections, excision, incision, ablation, cryotherapy, chemical cautery, and curettage.

Believe It or Not!: Amazing Eye Tech, Astounding Therapies, & Pioneering Procedures (2 hrs)

The volume and pace at which ophthalmic technology, procedures, pharmaceuticals, and therapies are being developed is staggering. This constantly updated, interactive, multimedia course reviews some of the newest and yet-to-be-approved diagnostic technology, therapeutic treatments, and developing innovations in eye care. Specific emphasis is on the areas of glaucoma, cataracts, retinal disease, vision rehabilitation, minor periocular & intraocular surgical procedures, and novel drug delivery methods.

A Skeptic Looks at Ocular Nutrition and Supplements: Separating Hype from Reality (2 hrs)

Appropriate diet and nutritional supplementation can significantly impact ocular and systemic health, but sorting through the myriad of unsubstantiated claims and marketing gimmicks can be a challenge for both doctors and patients. What does the literature say? What natural food sources can be used? How much is enough, but not too much? What dietary supplements are appropriate to potentially alter ocular health? Let’s take a  critical look at scientific data, clinical studies, and objective information to reveal some answers! 

Hot News or Not News…What do You Think? (2 hrs)

Using a unique, interactive, multimedia format, you the audience get to vote on whether new and emerging eye care innovations are really “Hot News” or “Not News”. Topics include diagnostic technology, new and emerging ophthalmic pharmaceuticals, wearable tech, miscellaneous surgical and therapeutic advances, contact lens and spectacle breakthroughs, and more, all vying for your vote as the next noteworthy innovation in eye care.