ASRS's History of Retina: Recent Episodes
None
Welcome to the History of Retina, a continuously unfolding story of the specialty’s dynamic evolution. Trace the journey by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.For more information visit https://retinahistory.asrs.org/.
Born in Shanghai, China, Stanley Chang, MD, immigrated to the United States with his family in 1949 at the age of two. He went on to earn an electrical engineering degree at MIT in 1968, followed by a master's degree in biomedical electronic engineering from the University of Pennsylvania and a medical degree from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1974. He completed his ophthalmology residency at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary in 1978 and his fellowship at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in 1979. World-renowned for his many groundbreaking contributions to the field, Dr. Chang is perhaps best known for his development of perfluorocarbon liquids, a product that revolutionized the process of repairing retinal detachments, particularly those associated with proliferative vitreoretinopathy and giant retinal tears. He also played a pivotal role in the development of a panoramic vitreoretinal surgery viewing system and subsequently educated retina specialists worldwide on the merits of this novel technique to improve the outcomes of vitreoretinal surgery. Listen in as he shares a firsthand account of these and other innovations, along with compelling stories from his prolific career.
Learn more at www.HistoryofRetina.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
One of Retina’s true statesmen, Dr. Charles Patrick Wilkinson is Chairman Emeritus of Ophthalmology at the Greater Baltimore Medical Center and Professor Emeritus of the Department of Ophthalmology at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. Dr. Wilkinson watched the history of retina unfold, working alongside fellow retina giants, including Drs. Norton, Curtin, Gass, Michels, Machemer, and others. In this interview, he recounts the early years, the birth of vitreoretinal surgery and the rapid-fire innovation that followed. You’ll be hard-put to find a more-humble soul, but make no mistake, Pat Wilkinson is a true pillar in retina, a renowned surgeon, clinician, academician, and author who has contributed mightily to the development of the field.
Learn more at www.HistoryofRetina.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
If there is one discovery that constituted a quantum leap in the evolution of the field of retina and ophthalmology, optical coherence tomography (OCT) is undoubtedly on the short list. Today’s retina specialists can’t imagine practicing without OCT imaging. It’s one of the first diagnostic tests obtained for the vast majority of patients, and is essential for the diagnosis and management of the most common retinal diseases, as well as the most rare. Join host Dr. Christina Weng as she traces this remarkable story of innovation with first-hand accounts from leading pioneers Drs. James G. Fujimoto, David Huang, Jay S. Duker and David Sarraf.
Learn more at www.HistoryofRetina.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Cynthia A. Toth, MD, FASRS, has always been ahead of the curve, from being the first female surgeon to join the faculty at Duke to becoming one of the earliest researchers to use OCT to study retinal injuries. She was also one of the first to use a handheld OCT system to examine infants, and she pioneered the first intraoperative OCT-guided surgical system. Dr. Toth has helped revolutionize how doctors see and treat the retina, not only in adults, but also in our youngest and most vulnerable patients.
Interestingly, despite an early inclination toward engineering, Dr. Toth chose medicine, and in this truly inspiring Leaders & Legends interview, you’ll hear how she found ways to weave threads of engineering into the tapestry of her illustrious medical career.
Learn more at www.HistoryofRetina.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
The History of Retina is pleased to welcome one of retina’s most highly esteemed ambassadors to Leaders & Legends.
Dr. William F. Mieler has channeled his passion and impressive background into an illustrious career as a clinician, educator, researcher, and international leader in ophthalmology. He has served in countless leadership positions in organized ophthalmology, including president of ARVO and the Macula Society. He also founded the Advanced Vitreoretinal Technology and Techniques (AVTT) and Fellows Course, one of the most popular courses for 2nd year surgical retina fellows.
Listen in as he recounts coming of age under the tutelage of revered retina giants Don Gass, MD, at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Thomas Aaberg, Sr., MD, at the Medical College of Wisconsin and Jerry Shields, MD, at the Wills Eye Hospital. He discusses their unique styles of practice and leadership, their profound impact on the field as well as his own professional journey.
Learn more at www.HistoryofRetina.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
The History of Retina is pleased to welcome revered educator, surgeon, and clinician Dr. Lee Jampol to Leaders & Legends. Dr. Jampol’s remarkable career has largely centered around research trials, studying retinal diseases like diabetic retinopathy and central serous retinopathy. He has been a key player in some of the field's most pivotal trials, including the Macular Photocoagulation Study, SCORE studies, and Submacular Surgery Trials. He has also been extremely involved with the DRCR Retina Network since its inception over two decades ago. Listen in as he shares details of his extraordinary professional journey and insights on the field of retina past, present and future.
Learn more at www.HistoryofRetina.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Join us for an extraordinary Milestones in Retina expert panel discussion detailing the discovery and evolution of a treatment that truly revolutionized the field of retina and the lives of patients around the world – virtually overnight. That therapy is, of course, anti-VEGF.
It goes without saying that there is an army of researchers, clinicians, patients and industry representatives who contributed mightily to the success of this pivotal therapy. This new Milestones segment celebrates and shares the amazing story of innovation by tracking anti-VEGF’s miraculous discovery and the extraordinary therapeutic development that followed through the compelling first-hand accounts of a few highly notable experts, Drs. Joan Miller, Julia Haller, Jeffrey Heier and Jay Duker.
Learn more at www.HistoryofRetina.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
The History of Retina is pleased to share this Leaders & Legends interview featuring the extraordinary life and career of Mark Blumenkranz, MD. Dr. Blumenkranz is the HU Smead Professor Emeritus and co-director of the Ophthalmic Innovation Program at the Byers Eye Institute at Stanford University School of Medicine. In addition, he serves as manager director of Lagunita Biosciences and is co-founder and president of the Collaborative Community on Ophthalmic Imaging Foundation.
Mark has been an innovator of vitrectomy surgery techniques and clinical drug studies that have helped usher in the modern era of intravitreal surgical and drug therapy. He has published more than 175 papers in peer reviewed journals and multiple book chapters and patents.
Mark started his retina career as a fellow and then faculty at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute until 1985 when he was recruited away to Associated Retina Consultants in Royal Oak, Michigan. There he served as Chief of the Vitreoretinal Surgery Service at the Kresge Eye Institute and was founder and director of the Retina Fellowship Program at William Beaumont Hospital. In 1992, Mark transitioned to Stanford University where he served in a variety of positions, culminating in his being named chair of the Department of Ophthalmology in 1997. And almost immediately he began working on the planning, funding, and construction of the Byers Eye Institute of which he would become director.
Learn more at www.HistoryofRetina.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Emily Y. Chew, MD, is director of the Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Applications and deputy clinical director of the National Eye Institute (NEI). She is also a senior investigator and Chief of the NEI’s Clinical Trials Branch. In this Leaders & Legends interview Dr. Chew shares fascinating experiences and perspectives from her extraordinary life and career.
Born in Canton, China, Dr. Chew is a first-generation American, who has blazed a trail for women in the field while building a stellar career at one of the world’s leading health agencies. She has worked on some of retina’s most pivotal multi-centered clinical trials, including the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study. In addition, she chaired the Age-Related Eye Disease Studies – (AREDS 1 and 2), and she directs the clinical portion of the international Macular Telangiectasia Project. She works with renowned experts across the globe and her groundbreaking research has changed the treatment paradigm and improved the lives of patients around the world.
Learn more at www.HistoryofRetina.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Unlike most kids, Eugene de Juan, Jr., preferred his toys broken. Fascinated by his ophthalmologist father’s many gadgets and his grandfather’s workshop, Gene discovered his passion for fixing things at an early age.
He went on to complete his ophthalmology and vitreoretinal training at world-class institutions including the Johns Hopkins University’s Wilmer Eye Institute and Duke University, and later channeled his medical expertise into his passion for innovation.
Today, when we talk about pivotal innovators in retina, Dr. De Juan’s name is certainly always at the top of the list. He is the inventor or co-inventor of nearly 100 products, and holds nearly 450 US patents and patents pending. Among his many discoveries is what we know as the transconjunctival approach to 25-gauge vitrectomy, a discovery that revolutionized retinal surgery.
In 2005, Dr. De Juan established ForSight Labs, a serial ophthalmic company incubator that has helped develop more than a dozen companies. Listen in as he shares fascinating stories and insights from his truly remarkable career.
Learn more at www.HistoryofRetina.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Leaders & Legends is pleased to share an interview with a true dynamic duo in retina: Drs. Susan and Neil Bressler.
Susan and Neil’s personal and professional partnership started in their early days at John Hopkins medical school and, with thoughtful intention, they set out to build their life and careers together.
They both pursued ophthalmology residency and medical retina fellowships at Harvard Medical School’s Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, followed by duo surgical fellowships at Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins. They joined the faculty at Wilmer in 1988 where they remain today.
Both Susan and Neil share a deep interest in clinical trials. He has authored over 470 peer-reviewed publications and chaired multiple NIH-sponsored multicentered clinical trials. Susan has published over 250 peer-reviewed articles and 61 book chapters
Theirs is a truly a remarkable story of two stellar careers that make up one powerhouse partnership that has made an indelible mark on the field through enormous contributions to research, education and patient care.
Learn more at www.HistoryofRetina.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Dr. Yale Fisher has had an undeniable impact on the field of retina. He led the way in the development of new techniques and instruments in the field, particularly in ultrasonography and vitreoretinal surgery. His pioneering work in ocular endoscopy has expanded the boundaries of what is possible in the field and he has shared his expertise extensively with audiences both nationally and internationally. Listen in as Dr. Fisher recalls the early 1970s, a time of extraordinary innovation in retina, and his important collaborations with world-renowned vitreoretinal surgeon and innovator Dr. Steve Charles. He shares details about his remarkable friendship with Victor Curtin, MD, as well as an unintentional encounter with a New York Times reporter in 1979 that raised the visibility of the extraordinary work of retinal surgeons.
Learn more at www.HistoryofRetina.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Dr. Stuart L. Fine is world-renowned for his leadership in ophthalmology education, research, and patient care. A pioneering investigator, Dr. Fine helped shape the field of retina through his leadership of numerous National Eye Institute (NEI)-supported, multi-centered clinical trials to evaluate new and existing treatments for retinal disease. Among the many pivotal trials he chaired are the Macular Photocoagulation Study and the Collaborative Ocular Melanoma Study. He also vice chaired the NEI-sponsored Comparison of Age-related Macular Degeneration Treatment Trials (CATT). He has received many of the field's highest honors but will tell you that he is most proud of his mentorship of two generations of medical students and house staff, many of whom have become national and international leaders in academic ophthalmology.
Learn more at www.HistoryofRetina.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
In this episode, the History of Retina welcomes retina leader and legend, Morton F. Goldberg, MD, who shares stories from his extraordinary career. Listen in as he recalls co-hosting the 1968 Arlie House Symposium on the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy with colleague Stuart Fine, MD. This groundbreaking international meeting of the world’s experts on diabetic retinopathy led to a major revolution in care for patients with the disease that had previously led to irreversible blindness. The Symposium spurred the creation and implementation of a new standardized classification of the disease and the first major, collaborative, prospective clinical trial in ophthalmology, the Diabetic Retinopathy Study.
Learn more at www.HistoryofRetina.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Since its founding in 1982, the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) has grown exponentially in size and influence, making it a powerful national advocate and primary source of clinical and scientific information and education for its members. It does, in fact, represent all things retina. Listen in as ASRS founders, Drs. Jerald Bovino, Roy Levit and Allen Verne, discuss their quest to create an open, egalitarian organization to serve the ongoing professional, educational and social needs of all fellowship-trained retina specialists. Through their sheer determination, courage and initiative, the Vitreous Society – later renamed the American Society of Retina Specialists -- was born.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Daniel Martin, MD, FASRS, has focused much of his extraordinary career on the design and execution of clinical trials to evaluate new drugs and therapeutic strategies for retinal disease. He has been – and is still -- at the helm of some of the most influential retina research of our time. His contributions have not only guided treatment practices, but have built a framework on which future research will be undertaken. In this compelling discussion, Dr. Martin details his early work on transformative treatments for Cytomegalovirus (or CMV) retinitis associated with AIDS, his leadership of the groundbreaking CATT Trial and expansion of the DRCR Retina Network. He also shares the pivotal role of his mentors and how they shaped his own leadership philosophy that has guided the development of a world-class team at the Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Few people have thought as deeply about retina’s most perplexing questions as Richard Spaide, MD. He is a brilliant innovator and ‘retinal philosopher’ whose research and novel theories on the pathophysiology of retinal disorders have spawned nearly 400 peer-reviewed publications, including many of the most-cited and influential papers in the field. Listen in as Dr. Spaide discusses his professional journey, his proudest accomplishments and the inspiration behind many of his most notable papers.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Beyond his operating room wizardry and passion for patient care, Donald J. D’Amico, MD, FASRS, is recognized for his gift of oratory which has made him a world-renowned lecturer, moderator and educator. In this compelling interview, Dr. D’Amico recounts fascinating stories of his early days in practice, including his experience operating with the Freeman/Schepens inversion table, and what he wants the next generation to know about those who led the way in the early days of retina.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow
A recognized pioneer in retinal imaging, Lawrence A. Yannuzzi, MD, is a revered practitioner and educator who has earned an international reputation for his keen observational skills, inquisitive mind and the ability to publish findings at lightning speed. In this Leaders & Legends interview, Dr. Yannuzzi shares interesting insights into his career, including ‘stalking’ his mentor, Dr. Donald Gass, during residency and his early involvement with fluorescein angiography. Listen as he discusses some of his most notable findings and publications, as well as the advent of the world-acclaimed, web-based Yannuzzi Rounds.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow
In this inspiring interview you’ll hear from the remarkable Carol L. Shields, MD, FASRS, a true pioneer in every sense of the word. Listen in as she recalls her childhood making house calls with her physician father, her years captaining Notre Dame’s first championship varsity women's basketball team, her induction into the Academic Hall of Fame, to her extraordinary personal and professional journey with husband Jerry. This world-renowned power duo has defined the field of ocular oncology and they are among the field’s most prolific, writers, lecturers and educators. Dr. Shields details her transformative work on treatment for blinding retinoblastoma and shares insights on the importance of teamwork and how she has managed to balance her demanding professional career while raising 7 children.
Learn more at https://retinahistory.asrs.org/www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow
A fascinating conversation with Dr. Harry Flynn who recounts his stellar career. A visionary surgeon who has introduced numerous innovations and new technologies to the operating room, he discusses the evolution of small-gauge surgery, his collaborations with the legendary Jean-Marie Parel, Ing. ETS-G, PhD, his love of research, working with residents and fellows and the coming of age of the ASRS.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
An extraordinary look back with George Williams, MD, FASRS, who discusses his experience during the Aaberg-Abrams era at the Medical College of Wisconsin, his groundbreaking exploration of pharmacological ways to manipulate the vitreous and the birth of retinal pharmacology. A staunch crusader on behalf of retina, Dr. Williams is a recognized health policy expert who shares interesting insights on the business of retina past and present.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Retina pioneer and innovator Gary W. Abrams, MD, FASRS, discusses his inspiring professional journey spanning numerous groundbreaking advancements in the field, from the advent of the air pump and endolaser, to gas, silicone oil, perfluorocarbon liquid, vitrectomy and wide-angle viewing. Listen as he recalls his memorable job interview with Robert Machemer, MD, and the ‘Aaberg-Abrams’ years that built the Medical College of Wisconsin into a powerhouse of innovation in the 1980s.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
In 1971, Dr. Robert Machemer, Anton Banko and Jean-Marie Parel designed the vitreous infusion cutter (VISC), one of the first commercially available instruments to remove vitreous during a vitrectomy. Shortly thereafter, Mark Mandelcorn, MD, FRCSC, arrived at Bascom Palmer from Toronto and became Dr. Machemer’s first fellow, working directly alongside him and Bascom’s trailblazing faculty. In this interview, ASRS History of Retina Co-Chair Timothy G. Murray, MD, MBA, FASRS, talks with Dr. Mandelcorn as he recalls his experience in Miami during a time of exciting discoveries, and his return to Canada where he was the first to use the VISC, and later trained a generation of retinal surgeons to employ this revolutionary invention to help save vision across the country.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Audina Berrocal, MD, FASRS, is one of the world’s leading experts in the surgical management of retinopathy of prematurity and pediatric vitreoretinal disorders. She is also the youngest daughter of Jose Berrocal, MD, who was the first retina fellow at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in 1963 and went on to be the first retina surgeon in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. In this Leaders & Legends segment, Dr. Berrocal shares details about her extraordinary upbringing during which she and her sister Maria, also an internationally recognized retina surgeon, mingled with a who’s who of retina giants. She discusses her early pursuit of a career in politics before finding her true calling in retina where she has served as a powerful role model and mentor for women and minorities. Hear the story behind how she became the first retina specialist to treat a pediatric patient with anti-VEGF and the first to treat the youngest pediatric patient with the first FDA-approved gene therapy.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
History of Retina Co-director Kirk H. Packo, MD, FASRS, hosts an all-star panel of retina giants, who recount the coming of age of vitrectomy surgery. Listen in as Drs. Thomas Aaberg, Sr., Gary Abrams, Steve Charles, Gene de Juan, and Wayne Fung share their compelling first-hand accounts of vitrectomy from the early days of open sky and the Vail Vitrectomy Course through the monumental advances of the ‘Roaring 80’s’ to today’s era of advanced visualization and micro-incisional surgery.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Since vision issues and blindness were first diagnosed and documented, scientists have sought a cure. In this video, ASRS Foundation President Timothy G. Murray, MD, MBA, FASRS, talks with Mark S. Humayun, MD, PhD, an internationally recognized pioneer in vision restoration who assembled a multidisciplinary team of experts to develop the first FDA-approved artificial retina, Argus II, for sight restoration. Drs. Murray and Humayun discuss what inspired the invention of the artificial retina, the obstacles overcome in developing the prosthesis and what other sight-restoring breakthroughs may be on the horizon.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Julia Haller, MD, FASRS is a world-renowned retina surgeon and scientist who has innovated significant translational advances against blindness. She discusses her remarkable journey in academic and organized medicine, including being among the first to administer gene therapy and to inject anti-VEGF in a human eye. A trailblazer for women in retina, she reflects on her experiences in practice and as the first female president of the Vitreous Society (now ASRS) at the dawn of the anti-VEGF era.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
An extraordinary conversation with Thomas Aaberg Sr., MD, FASRS, and son Thomas Aaberg Jr., MD, who share a rare look inside the early years in retina. Tom Aaberg Sr., discusses his remarkable career, early innovations that moved the needle, and his friendship and collaborations with Robert Machemer, MD. Tom Aaberg Jr., MD, adds his recollections from growing up with a ring-side seat during the early evolution of vitrectomy and the development of his own remarkable career in retina.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Few stories in our field are as unique as that of the Berrocal’s, a multigenerational retina tour de force. In this Leaders & Legends segment, Maria Berrocal, MD, FASRS, daughter of the late Jose Berrocal, MD, an internationally renowned retina pioneer who was the first retina surgeon in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, shares stories about her extraordinary upbringing during which she and her sister Audina, an internationally recognized retina surgeon in her own right, mingled with a who’s who of retina giants and witnessed the evolution of the field from scleral buckling to OCT and microincision surgery. She discusses her educational journey in the United States and her decisions to return to Puerto Rico to work alongside her father. Dr. Berrocal discusses her passion for innovating new techniques and surgical approaches to managing complex ocular disease. A highly respected researcher and educator, she has performed live surgery in more than 25 countries and has blazed a trail for women and minorities in ophthalmology.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
In this interview with one of retina’s true giants, Mike Trese, MD, details his remarkable 45-year career spearheading revolutionary developments in both pediatric and adult retina. He shares the challenges of navigating blinding diseases with the youngest and most vulnerable patients and the amazing advances that have increased the success rate for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) from 50% to 90%. He also touches on his strong desire to make a contribution to the field and to his patients that has spawned the development of key innovations in retinal instrumentation and surgery.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
In this compelling panel discussion, host Timothy G. Murray, MD, MBA, FASRS, explores the history of scleral buckling through the first-hand accounts of renowned vitreoretinal surgeons Allan (Buzz) Kreiger, MD; Charles (Pat) Wilkinson, MD, MA; Gary W. Abrams, MD; and Michael Lambert, MD. The experts share their professional experiences with scleral buckling and discuss developments in technology and techniques, shifting trends in outpatient surgery and anesthesia, the importance of drawings and case selection, management of complications and their evolving views on the role of the procedure.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
A truly fascinating discussion with Kirk H. Packo, MD, FACS, FASRS, an internationally renowned vitreoretinal surgeon whose unique creativity, intellect and story-telling abilities have made him a legendary teacher of retina. Listen as Dr. Packo reflects on his mentors, and his experience coming of age in retina during the ‘heyday’ of instrument development. He discusses his inventions and his pivotal role in the commercialization of intraocular gas. A past president and 18-year Board member of the ASRS, Dr. Packo is credited with transforming the small, meeting-based Vitreous Society into the ASRS of today, encompassing all things retina. He describes his deep commitment to the ASRS and offers his perspective on the most impactful developments in the field.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
Invention of the vitreous infusion suction cutter (VISC) for vitrectomy surgery revolutionized the field of retina in the 1970s. Now, more than 50 years later, the VISC remains central to every retinal surgeons armamentarium and no one is more surprised than the man behind its development -- Jean-Marie Parel, Ing.ETS-G, PhD, FARVO. In this extraordinary conversation, Dr. Parel traces his journey to the United States, discusses his introduction to Edward Norton, MD, his pivotal partnership with Robert Machemer, MD, and the development of numerous advances in instrumentation during a remarkable era of creativity and innovation at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.
It would be hard to imagine retina surgery today without the contributions of Steve Charles, MD, FACS, FICS, FASRS . Over the course of his amazing career, he has amassed over 100 patents, introducing among other things, scissor segmentation, the linear vacuum, disposable cutters, retinectomy, the Ocutome 8000, and ‘medium term PFO.’ Listen as he discusses his love of engineering and medicine, his insatiable appetite for learning and passion for innovation that have revolutionized retina instrumentation and techniques.
Learn more at www.retinahistory.asrs.org.
About the History of Retina
The History of Retina is brought to you by the Foundation of the American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) in an effort to preserve the history and heritage of retina for generations to come. Trace the journey of the specialty's dynamic evolution by exploring milestones in technology, instrumentation, and techniques and hearing first-hand accounts from retina pioneers whose innovative spirit and pivotal contributions laid the framework for the advanced sight-saving retinal care of today and the enormously promising treatments of tomorrow.