Download visions document! - University of Colorado Denver

FACULTY NEWS continued
Malik Kahook, MD recently had his
research recognized by AAO News and Views
for his study on “Location of glaucoma
drainage devices relative to the
optic nerve”. He also was awarded the
American Glaucoma Society Patient
Adherence Research Award (2007) on
December of 2006. This is a competitive grant
awarded to one glaucoma specialist in the United States
to study compliance to glaucoma medical therapy. He is
also the recipient of an AGS Clinician Scientist Grant for
2007 for his study on new medications for neuroprotection. Dr. Kahook was also given an unrestricted
grant awarded by Alcon for a study involving the effects
of glaucoma medications on the ocular surface. Dr.
Kahook was named Associate Editor of Ophthalmic
Surgery Lasers and Imaging and section editor of
Glaucoma Today “Residents and Fellows Q & A”.
At the Vail Vitrectomy meeting held in March 2007,
Naresh Mandava, MD showcased a new instrument for
retinal surgery which he developed with Dutch
Ophthalmics Inc.
Jeffrey Olson, MD continues his work in the
vision science laboratory. His research, coauthored with Dr. Mandava, entitled “Intravitreal Infliximab inhibits choroidal
neovascularization” will be published in a
forthcoming issue of the journal Archives
of Ophthalmology. Also, he recently published
an article “Cerebellar and retinal vascular
lesions in a postpartum patient,” co-authored by Naresh
Mandava, MD and Jeffrey Bennett, MD, PhD, in the
journal American Family Physician.
Michael Taravella, MD was selected to join
the Teacher’s Scholars Program at UCDHSC.
Dr. Taravella brings 20 years of teaching
experience to this structured program. His
goal is to define how modern surgery should
be taught. His work includes the design of a
cataract surgery simulator here at RMLEI.
Congratulations to our very own
Rebecca Sands Braverman, MD and
Jon Braverman, MD who married on
New Year’s Eve, 2006 in
Wayne, New Jersey.
FACULTY LISTING
Our full time faculty at the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute is comprised of
Ophthalmologists with specialties that serve all your ophthalmic needs. www.eyeinstitute.org
CALL 720-848-2020 FOR APPOINTMENTS WITH THE FOLLOWING
Michael Erlanger, MD
Richard Davidson, MD
J. Bronwyn Bateman, MD
Assistant Professor
Assistant Professor
Professor
Pediatric Ophthalmology & Cornea & External Diseases Cornea & External Diseases
Refractive Surgery
Adult Strabismus
Darren Gregory, MD
Ophthalmic Genetics
Arlene Drack, MD
Assistant Professor
Associate Professor
Rebecca Sands
Cornea & External Diseases
Pediatric Ophthalmology &
Braverman, MD
Kara Hanson, OD
Adult Strabismus
Assistant Professor
Clinical Instructor
Pediatric Ophthalmology & Ophthalmic Genetics
Low Vision Rehabilitation
Adult Strabismus
Vikram Durairaj, MD
Malik Kahook, MD
Associate Professor
Theodore Curtis, MD
Assistant Professor
Ophthalmic Plastic and
Assistant Professor
Glaucoma & Cataracts
Pediatric Ophthalmology & Reconstructive Surgery
Orbital Surgery
Adult Strabismus
CALL 303-436-6426 AT DENVER HEALTH FOR APPOINTMENTS WITH:
Jon Braverman, MD
Antonio Ciardella, MD
Nicholas Faberowski, MD
Assistant Clinical Professor Assistant Professor
Assistant Professor
Comprehensive
Vitreoretinal Disease
Glaucoma
Ophthalmology
FEATURE FOCUS
!
UA L
University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center
Department of Ophthalmology
Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute
Mail Stop F731
1675 North Ursula Street
P.O. Box 6510
Aurora, CO 80045
Denver, CO
Permit #2378
PAID
Non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
Jon M. Braverman, MD
Associate Clinical Professor
E DATE
Twenty-four hour emergency services complement the
Ocular and Orbital Trauma Services available through
the Department of Ophthalmology and Affiliate Centers.
Patient referrals are directed to us from throughout the
state of Colorado and surrounding states seeking the
expertise of this and the other Ophthalmology
Subspecialty Services offered in the Department of
Ophthalmology.
ANN
7 - 11 T H
AY
6, 200
RCH D
• JUNE 1 LMOLOGY RESEA
NNUAL
O P H TH A
- 11 T H A
, 2007 SIUM
O
9 & 20
• OCT. 1 LMOLOGY SYMP
O P H TH A
Many of our full-time attending physicians are very
experienced in the field of ocular and orbital trauma,
given our status as Level One (Denver Health Medical
Center, The Childrens’ Hospital) and Level Two
(University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences
Center) Trauma Centers. Collectively these centers see
a majority of annual cases of ocular and orbital trauma
in the Rocky Mountain Region. In 2006 ocular and
orbital trauma census data indicates approximately
1120 cases at Denver Health Medical Center, 100 cases
at University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences
Center, and 50 cases at The Childrens’ Hospital.
This annual experience has prepared the experts at
these centers to deal with a wide variety of injuries both
on an acute and post-acute rehabilitative level.
720-848-2020 is your direct link to the
Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute
for appointments or consultations with
an ophthalmology specialist.
Ocular and orbital trauma remains a
pandemic disease in both developed and
under-developed countries of the world.
Any person of any age could be affected by
these disorders as a result of accident or
assault. The mechanism of trauma can be
quite varied, even exotic, but visual
outcomes depend strongly on access to
expert specialized services such as those available
through the Department of Ophthalmology.
Michael Taravella, MD
Associate Professor
Cornea & External Diseases
Refractive Surgery
For more information visit us
on the web at
RMLEI DEPARTMENT OF OPHTHALMOLOGY AND AFFILIATE CENTERS
Jeffrey Olson, MD
Assistant Professor
Vitreoretinal Disease
www.eyeinstitute.org
OCULAR AND ORBITAL TRAUMA SERVICES
Naresh Mandava, MD
Associate Professor
Interim Chair
Vitreoretinal Disease
MISSION STATEMENT
CALL 720-848-2080 AT UCH FOR APPOINTMENTS WITH:
Jeffrey Bennett, MD
Victoria Pelak, MD
Associate Professor
Associate Professor
Neuro-ophthalmology
Neuro-ophthalmology
A glorious honeymoon was had in St.
John, U.S. Virgin Islands. Both are glad
to be back at work with fading tans.
DOCTORS:
Douglas MacKenzie, MD
Assistant Professor
Glaucoma
“To be a nationally recognized
Department of Ophthalmology
that serves the people of the
Rocky Mountain region by
providing exemplary patient
care founded on educational
leadership, innovative research,
and high ethical standards.”
SAVE TH
Congratulations to Dr. William Jackson who
was recently promoted to Professor Emeritus
in the Department of Ophthalmology.
Although Dr. Jackson has retired from
practice at the Barbara Davis Center for
Childhood Diabetes, he still remains active
in the department.
Drs. Antonio Ciardella & Naresh Mandava were recently
elected to the Macula Society and will be speaking at the
30th annual meeting scheduled for May 30- June 2 at
the London Hilton on Park Lane in London, England.
VISIONS
S P R I N G /S U M M E R , 2007
Hanson is a consultant. The first clinic in November was
a success, providing low vision evaluations to 12
students and recommendations for devices to help
expand their access to educational material.
VISIONS
S P R I N G /S U M M E R ,
S
A
PUBLICATION OF THE D EPARTMENT OF O PHTHALMOLOGY
R OCKY M OUNTAIN L IONS E YE I NSTITUTE
U NIVERSITY OF C OLORADO
2007
PRING
/S U M M E R , 2007
FOCUS ON THE INSTITUTE
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
The Department of Ophthalmology and
the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute
are engaged in many translational
projects which have the potential to
bring new drugs and devices to our
patients and do nothing short of
restore or preserve sight for our
patients. Translational research uses knowledge of
human biology to develop and test the feasibility of
ophthalmic-relevant interventions in humans and/or
determines the biological basis for observations in
individuals with ocular disease or in populations at
risk for ocular disease. It is our responsibility to our
patients as well as our academic and research
missions to invent, investigate, and implement these
new technologies.
The NIH (National Institutes of Health) and other
funding agencies have recently focused research
funding to areas, which have translational potential.
Clinically irrelevant research is no longer funded.
This is not to say that the most basic research is
not important. In fact, it is more important than
ever. We need to understand all of the mechanisms
and the genetics involved in complex diseases to
treat them. Unfortunately, the dollars are limited,
so the funding agencies need to be very focused in a
time when the possibilities for breakthroughs is
greater than ever.
Our Department is focused on several projects,
which we feel have the potential to be breakthrough
contributions. Our retina division is involved in
assessing different molecules which can treat wet
macular degeneration. Research starts in the lab
and drugs are tested in animal models before they
can be brought to FDA testing. Our retina division
also has a project in artificial vision, which may
some day lead to solutions for currently irreversible
and progressive blindness. Our glaucoma, orbit,
and cornea divisions are identifying undiscovered
proteins in the eye (proteomics) which could lead to
advances in early diagnosis of disease and potential
targets for treatment in diseases such as glaucoma,
retinal diseases, as well as more common conditions
such as severe dry eye syndrome.
The best physicians and surgeons will define the
research paths, which our basic researchers take.
It is the role of institutions like ours to define what
is clinically relevant. We are fortunate to have some
of the best ophthalmic surgeons and clinical
researchers in the country. The University of
Colorado School of Medicine is ranked 15th in the
country in NIH funding and we are in the midst of
developing one of the largest research centers in the
world on the UCDHSC Anschutz Medical campus.
The Department will continue to harness the energy
and brainpower of this cutting edge institution,
which is necessary for us to succeed in making
these news drugs and devices a reality.
Naresh Mandava, MD
Associate Professor and Interim Chair
Director, Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Clinic
Managing a hospital-based ophthalmology
clinic has provided me with an opportunity
to compare nursing skills to the unique
skill set of experienced ophthalmic
technicians. In ophthalmology, a majority
of technicians are trained on-the-job though there
are more and more ophthalmic technical training
programs popping up at universities around the
country. In the course of preparing a patient to see
an ophthalmologist for a specific eye problem,
ophthalmic technicians may perform over 20 various
ophthalmic testing procedures to assist the
ophthalmologist in determining exactly what eye
condition a patient may have. We are lucky here at
Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute (RMLEI) that
the majority of our technicians have over 10 years of
experience working in ophthalmology, and several
have over 20 years of experience. In addition to
many years of experience, the vast majority of our
technicians have been certified through the Joint
Commission on Allied Health Personnel in
Ophthalmology. By ensuring that our staff has
adequate skills and experience, and by providing
ongoing technician education courses, we are able to
deliver the quality of care that our patients expect
when they come to our facility.
Loretta Todaro
Clinic Manager, Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Clinic
PEDIATRIC OPHTHALMOLOGY UPDATE
FEATURE FOCUS
The Children’s Hospital Eye Clinic is pleased to
announce that the pediatric satellite clinic at the
Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute is in full swing.
Drs. Arlene Drack (Chair of the Ophthalmology
Division at The Children's Hospital), Theodore Curtis,
and Rebecca Sands Braverman are available for
pediatric consultation at RMLEI by calling the TCH
Eye Clinic at 303-861-6062.
Our pediatric ophthalmologists are proud to be
involved with the Colorado Lions KidSight Program.
Drs. Drack and Curtis are co-directors of the program,
and eye clinic manager Cameile Moore, COMT, CO,
MS, serves as program coordinator. The Colorado
KidSight Program is a project of the Lions of Colorado.
Volunteers from various Lions Clubs go to preschools
across the state of Colorado to take photoscreening
pictures of children’s eyes. The light reflected from the
retina is analyzed to detect refractive errors,
strabismus, and /or media opacities. Bright crescents
in the pupils indicate a possible vision problem - the
specific type of
problem is indicated
by the size and
location of the
crescent. This
proves helpful as
many of the children
are too young to
read and thus
unable to participate
in standard eye
exams. The
Lion Allan Leach from the Loveland Lions Club showing
Children's Hospital
a preschooler the photo of his eyes.
Eye Clinic is the
interpretation center for the Lion’s Club of Colorado
photoscreening tests and Drs. Drack & Curtis
regularly receive photos for analysis. The
interpretation of these special photographs enable the
diagnosis of the major causes of vision loss in
children. If a problem is detected, the Lion’s Club
follows up with each patient and family to ensure the
preschoolers receive proper eye care.
(Left) Two examples of the types of photos taken with the Photoscreening camera. These
photos were taken directly from the Kidsight Photoscreening Training manual, given to
the physicians to depict the variance. By examining the “crescent”, the physicians can
identify strabismus, cataracts, and amblyopia. In normal photos, the “crescent” should be
minimal or non-occurring; the larger the “crescent” the greater the severity of the child’s
visual problem. In the first set of two photographs, the physicians can detect that the
child has strabismus (crossing of the eyes) in their right eye, likely to cause amblyopia
(an impairment of the vision in one eye caused by lack of use). In the second set of two
photographs, the child’s left eye is normal and the right eye depicts high hyperopia
(farsightedness). A difference in refraction between the two eyes is the most common
cause of amblyopia.
FOCUS ON RESIDENTS and FELLOWS
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A RESIDENT . . .
For the past three years I have been part of the
University of Colorado ophthalmology training program,
and (along with the other 11 residents) have stayed quite
busy with clinical responsibilities, educational
conferences, and research. The typical day starts with a
case presentation at the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye
Institute. The residents present the majority of cases,
and then faculty give their input to stimulate discussion
and emphasize teaching points. From there, we all go
our separate ways to cover several hospitals for a diverse
training experience.
Throughout our three years of training we rotate several
times through the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute.
We have the privilege of working closely with attendings
in an outstanding facility. With the latest technology
available at our finger tips, we become proficient at
diagnosing and treating complicated eye diseases.
Three months of each year we rotate through the VA
Medical Center and Denver Health Medical Center.
As first year residents, these rotations give us the
opportunity to acquire basic exam skills and learn how to
manage commonly encountered eye diseases. Second
year residents gradually take on more responsibility and
begin to learn cataract surgery. During the third year of
our residency we gain the majority of our surgical
WE VERY PROUDLY PRESENT OUR GRADUATES
RICHARD CANNON, MD plans to join a
comprehensive ophthalmology practice in the
northern Rocky Mountains.
CHRISTOPHER GELSTON, MD is completing his
fellowship in Cornea, External Disease and
Refractive Surgery. He has accepted a position
with Dr. Stuart Kaufman in Tampa, Florida.
LEE KRAMM, MD has accepted the Medical
Officer position within the FDA's Division of
Ophthalmic Devices with a clinical appointment
at the National Eye Institute and the Bethesda
Naval Hospital.
NATHAN RUDOMETKIN, MD is finishing his
2-year fellowship in Vitreoretinal Disease and
Surgery. He will be joining a private retina
practice outside of Temecula, California.
SCOTT THOMAS, MD will be joining a
comprehensive ophthalmology practice in
San Antonio, Texas.
This photo is of a little girl named Cassidy, from Littleton,
who was referred for a full eye exam as a result of a vision
screening at her preschool in 2006. Her mom gave us this
testimonial:
"Thanks to the screening we found out that Cassidy has
anisometropia. The doctor said she could have gone blind
in that eye. She had never given any indication that she
had any problems with her vision. The screening was such
a good thing."
LAUREN ZIMSKI, MD plans to join a
comprehensive ophthalmology practice in the
Denver Metro area
CONTINUING RESIDENTS CLASS OF 2008
Suzanne Falkenberry, MD
Eric Hink, MD
Parin Gohel, MD
Anand Shah, MD
Geetha Athappilly, MD
Drew Dixon, MD
Ryan Berger, MD
Ginny Kullman, MD
CLASS OF 2009
experience. Residents are fortunate to perform a
tremendous variety of eye surgery including cataract
surgery, in addition to glaucoma, oculoplastics, and
retina surgery during these rotations.
The majority of our pediatric training is at The Children’s
Hospital which has both outpatient clinics and a busy
inpatient service. We see everything from commonly
encountered eye problems in the pediatric population to
rare genetic diseases, and also learn strabismus surgery.
All residents are encouraged to take an active role in
research. This is not difficult, as many of the faculty
have projects, and are eager for the help. As a reward for
their hard work, residents are sponsored to present their
research at national meetings. Every June there is a
research symposium for faculty and residents to
showcase their achievements.
We are fortunate to have four hospitals that provide us
with diverse learning experiences and ample surgical
breadth and volume. At the end of our three years, the
large clinical volume ensures we are armed with the
knowledge and skills necessary to be successful as
general ophthalmologists or to pursue subspecialty
training.
Lauren Zimski, MD
PGY-4
Chief Administrative Resident
WELCOME TO OUR INCOMING CLASS OF 2010!
These physicians will join our residency program at the
PGY-2 level in July 2007.
Dave Freeman, MD from the University of Nevada School
of Medicine is completing his intern year in the Internal
Medicine program at Exempla St. Joseph Hospital in
Denver.
Andy Hendrick, MD from the Ohio State University
College of Medicine and Public Health is also finishing his
intern year at Exempla St. Joseph Hospital’s Internal
Medicine program in Denver.
Michael Horsley, MD from the University of Illinois at
Chicago College of Medicine is currently finishing his
intern year at Tucson Hospitals Medical Education
Program in Tucson, Arizona.
Chris Russo, MD from Drexel University College of
Medicine is currently finishing his intern year in the
Internal Medicine program at Winthop-University
Hospital program in Mineola, New York.
We have very recently matched with four excellent
candidates for our residency class to start in July 2008.
We welcome our future-residents who will graduate in
2011:
Emily McCourt is currently a fourth-year medical
student at The State University of New York at Buffalo.
Leonard Seibold is a fourth-year student at the
University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. Carolyn Pan
is a senior medical student at Wayne State University
School of Medicine. Lisa Wong is in her final year at
Stanford University School of Medicine.
Foundation Fighting Blindness Schedule
Mile High Denver Chapter
May 12 Chapter meeting 10 - 1 pm
Jun 18 Swing for Sight Golf Tournament
Jul 20-22 Visions Conference - Kansas City
Sep 29 Visionwalk Colorado - Hudson Gardens
Call 303-799-1501 for more details
FOCUS ON FACULTY
We are pleased to announce a new
professorship in the Department of
Ophthalmology, The Eleanor Marmaduke
Professor of Pediatric Ophthalmology
Research.
Eleanor Marmaduke was born in Vinton,
Iowa in 1903. She attended the University of Colorado
where she became a life long member of Kappa Kappa
Gamma. She began her career in teaching in a one
room log school house in Wyoming and became an
executive administrative assistant for Bechtel
Corporation. She was stationed thoughout the world in
Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Venezuela, Saudi Arabia,
England, France and Holland.
Ms. Marmaduke held a special place in her heart for our
Department and faculty. She had a strong interest in
FACULTY NEWS
Antonio Ciardella, MD will be lecturing at
the 27th Annual Pan American Congress of
Ophthalmology in Cancun Mexico on May
30, 2007. His lecture will be part of the
retina subspecialty day and will be on the
topic of Autofluorescence. Congratulations
to Dr. Ciardella and his wife Dr. Jasmeliz
Ciardella as they celebrated the birth of their first
children, twin daughters Francesca & Chiara on
December 5th.
Richard Davidson, MD was recently invited
to be a guest lecturer at the 13th Annual
Catholic University Symposium of
Ophthalmology: New Horizons for NonSurgical Corneal Reshaping and Lamellar
Keratoplasty in Seoul, Korea on February
3rd, 2007. He gave lectures on Deep
Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty and Introduction to
DSAEK Surgery, both of which are new techniques for
corneal transplantation. Dr. Davidson served as an
associate examiner for the ABO oral board examination
given in November 2006.
Arlene Drack, MD has been asked to be cochair of the Seurat Society, a group started
by the University of Iowa dedicated to
advancing and sharing knowledge about
genetic eye disease. She is also an active
participant in Project 3000, an initiative
aimed at getting a genetics diagnosis for
each of the estimated 3000 Americans living
with Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA). LCA is a
congenital form of retinitis pigmentosa which causes
lifelong blindness. Genetic diagnosis is a first step toward
treatment protocols.
pediatric eye care and chose to donate to that cause.
She was really a strong woman who wanted to make a
difference for children after she suffered a retinal
condition.
Dr. Arlene Drack is the Eleanor Marmaduke Professor
of Pediatric Ophthalmology. Dr. Drack joined our
faculty in 2003 and is the Chief of Pediatric
Ophthalmology at the Children’s Hospital. She began
her career in pediatric ophthalmology at Emory
University for a decade before she joined us here in
Colorado. She is fellowship trained in both Pediatric
Ophthalmology and Strabismus and Molecular Genetics
in Iowa University and in Ophthalmic Genetics at the
Wilmer Eye Institute of Johns Hopkins. Dr. Drack also
staffs our ophthalmic genetics clinic and is developing a
regional ophthalmic genetics clinical research center
here at RMLEI with The Children’s Hospital.
Vikram Durairaj, MD authored an article
titled “Clinical Perspectives of Thyroid Eye
Disease” which was published in the
December issue of the American Journal of
Medicine. In addition, he was a co-author
for Tarsoconjunctival pedical flap for the
management of severe scleral melt which
was published in the February issue of
Cornea. He also co-authored a section on WebMD
regarding Blepharoplasty, Upper Eyelid. Lectures that Dr.
Durairaj gave include several Grand Rounds presentations
at the University of Pittsburgh in October 2006; Yale
University (gave lectures to the Department of
Ophthalmology and the Department of Surgery) in October
2006; and the University of Florence, Italy in November
2006. He also lectured to the Ophthalmology and ENT
residents in Oklahoma City in October 2006. Dr. Durairaj
was a featured speaker at the Otolaryngology/Head and
Neck Surgery Ultimate Mid-Winter Meeting in Vail,
Colorado in January 2007 and presented 3 lectures. He
also was an invited speaker at the University of Nebraska
Late Winter Symposium “Updates in ENT” in Silverthorne,
Colorado in March 2007.
Drs. Durairaj, Davidson, Kahook and Taravella traveled
to Fort Worth, Texas in February to present at an Alcon
sponsored Continuing Professional Education Meeting.
Kara Hanson, OD was the keynote speaker
at the Association for Education and
Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually
Impaired, NM Chapter (NM-AER) conference
Feb 22-23. Dr. Hanson reviewed the
components of a low vision evaluation and
also lectured on the advantages and
disadvantages of specific low vision devices.
New Mexico School for the Blind and Visually Impaired
will be holding their second pilot low vision clinic
(NMSBVI’s Access to Learning Clinic), for which Dr.
(continued on reverse side)
PEDIATRIC OPHTHALMOLOGY UPDATE
FEATURE FOCUS
The Children’s Hospital Eye Clinic is pleased to
announce that the pediatric satellite clinic at the
Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute is in full swing.
Drs. Arlene Drack (Chair of the Ophthalmology
Division at The Children's Hospital), Theodore Curtis,
and Rebecca Sands Braverman are available for
pediatric consultation at RMLEI by calling the TCH
Eye Clinic at 303-861-6062.
Our pediatric ophthalmologists are proud to be
involved with the Colorado Lions KidSight Program.
Drs. Drack and Curtis are co-directors of the program,
and eye clinic manager Cameile Moore, COMT, CO,
MS, serves as program coordinator. The Colorado
KidSight Program is a project of the Lions of Colorado.
Volunteers from various Lions Clubs go to preschools
across the state of Colorado to take photoscreening
pictures of children’s eyes. The light reflected from the
retina is analyzed to detect refractive errors,
strabismus, and /or media opacities. Bright crescents
in the pupils indicate a possible vision problem - the
specific type of
problem is indicated
by the size and
location of the
crescent. This
proves helpful as
many of the children
are too young to
read and thus
unable to participate
in standard eye
exams. The
Lion Allan Leach from the Loveland Lions Club showing
Children's Hospital
a preschooler the photo of his eyes.
Eye Clinic is the
interpretation center for the Lion’s Club of Colorado
photoscreening tests and Drs. Drack & Curtis
regularly receive photos for analysis. The
interpretation of these special photographs enable the
diagnosis of the major causes of vision loss in
children. If a problem is detected, the Lion’s Club
follows up with each patient and family to ensure the
preschoolers receive proper eye care.
(Left) Two examples of the types of photos taken with the Photoscreening camera. These
photos were taken directly from the Kidsight Photoscreening Training manual, given to
the physicians to depict the variance. By examining the “crescent”, the physicians can
identify strabismus, cataracts, and amblyopia. In normal photos, the “crescent” should be
minimal or non-occurring; the larger the “crescent” the greater the severity of the child’s
visual problem. In the first set of two photographs, the physicians can detect that the
child has strabismus (crossing of the eyes) in their right eye, likely to cause amblyopia
(an impairment of the vision in one eye caused by lack of use). In the second set of two
photographs, the child’s left eye is normal and the right eye depicts high hyperopia
(farsightedness). A difference in refraction between the two eyes is the most common
cause of amblyopia.
FOCUS ON RESIDENTS and FELLOWS
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A RESIDENT . . .
For the past three years I have been part of the
University of Colorado ophthalmology training program,
and (along with the other 11 residents) have stayed quite
busy with clinical responsibilities, educational
conferences, and research. The typical day starts with a
case presentation at the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye
Institute. The residents present the majority of cases,
and then faculty give their input to stimulate discussion
and emphasize teaching points. From there, we all go
our separate ways to cover several hospitals for a diverse
training experience.
Throughout our three years of training we rotate several
times through the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute.
We have the privilege of working closely with attendings
in an outstanding facility. With the latest technology
available at our finger tips, we become proficient at
diagnosing and treating complicated eye diseases.
Three months of each year we rotate through the VA
Medical Center and Denver Health Medical Center.
As first year residents, these rotations give us the
opportunity to acquire basic exam skills and learn how to
manage commonly encountered eye diseases. Second
year residents gradually take on more responsibility and
begin to learn cataract surgery. During the third year of
our residency we gain the majority of our surgical
WE VERY PROUDLY PRESENT OUR GRADUATES
RICHARD CANNON, MD plans to join a
comprehensive ophthalmology practice in the
northern Rocky Mountains.
CHRISTOPHER GELSTON, MD is completing his
fellowship in Cornea, External Disease and
Refractive Surgery. He has accepted a position
with Dr. Stuart Kaufman in Tampa, Florida.
LEE KRAMM, MD has accepted the Medical
Officer position within the FDA's Division of
Ophthalmic Devices with a clinical appointment
at the National Eye Institute and the Bethesda
Naval Hospital.
NATHAN RUDOMETKIN, MD is finishing his
2-year fellowship in Vitreoretinal Disease and
Surgery. He will be joining a private retina
practice outside of Temecula, California.
SCOTT THOMAS, MD will be joining a
comprehensive ophthalmology practice in
San Antonio, Texas.
This photo is of a little girl named Cassidy, from Littleton,
who was referred for a full eye exam as a result of a vision
screening at her preschool in 2006. Her mom gave us this
testimonial:
"Thanks to the screening we found out that Cassidy has
anisometropia. The doctor said she could have gone blind
in that eye. She had never given any indication that she
had any problems with her vision. The screening was such
a good thing."
LAUREN ZIMSKI, MD plans to join a
comprehensive ophthalmology practice in the
Denver Metro area
CONTINUING RESIDENTS CLASS OF 2008
Suzanne Falkenberry, MD
Eric Hink, MD
Parin Gohel, MD
Anand Shah, MD
Geetha Athappilly, MD
Drew Dixon, MD
Ryan Berger, MD
Ginny Kullman, MD
CLASS OF 2009
experience. Residents are fortunate to perform a
tremendous variety of eye surgery including cataract
surgery, in addition to glaucoma, oculoplastics, and
retina surgery during these rotations.
The majority of our pediatric training is at The Children’s
Hospital which has both outpatient clinics and a busy
inpatient service. We see everything from commonly
encountered eye problems in the pediatric population to
rare genetic diseases, and also learn strabismus surgery.
All residents are encouraged to take an active role in
research. This is not difficult, as many of the faculty
have projects, and are eager for the help. As a reward for
their hard work, residents are sponsored to present their
research at national meetings. Every June there is a
research symposium for faculty and residents to
showcase their achievements.
We are fortunate to have four hospitals that provide us
with diverse learning experiences and ample surgical
breadth and volume. At the end of our three years, the
large clinical volume ensures we are armed with the
knowledge and skills necessary to be successful as
general ophthalmologists or to pursue subspecialty
training.
Lauren Zimski, MD
PGY-4
Chief Administrative Resident
WELCOME TO OUR INCOMING CLASS OF 2010!
These physicians will join our residency program at the
PGY-2 level in July 2007.
Dave Freeman, MD from the University of Nevada School
of Medicine is completing his intern year in the Internal
Medicine program at Exempla St. Joseph Hospital in
Denver.
Andy Hendrick, MD from the Ohio State University
College of Medicine and Public Health is also finishing his
intern year at Exempla St. Joseph Hospital’s Internal
Medicine program in Denver.
Michael Horsley, MD from the University of Illinois at
Chicago College of Medicine is currently finishing his
intern year at Tucson Hospitals Medical Education
Program in Tucson, Arizona.
Chris Russo, MD from Drexel University College of
Medicine is currently finishing his intern year in the
Internal Medicine program at Winthop-University
Hospital program in Mineola, New York.
We have very recently matched with four excellent
candidates for our residency class to start in July 2008.
We welcome our future-residents who will graduate in
2011:
Emily McCourt is currently a fourth-year medical
student at The State University of New York at Buffalo.
Leonard Seibold is a fourth-year student at the
University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. Carolyn Pan
is a senior medical student at Wayne State University
School of Medicine. Lisa Wong is in her final year at
Stanford University School of Medicine.
Foundation Fighting Blindness Schedule
Mile High Denver Chapter
May 12 Chapter meeting 10 - 1 pm
Jun 18 Swing for Sight Golf Tournament
Jul 20-22 Visions Conference - Kansas City
Sep 29 Visionwalk Colorado - Hudson Gardens
Call 303-799-1501 for more details
FOCUS ON FACULTY
We are pleased to announce a new
professorship in the Department of
Ophthalmology, The Eleanor Marmaduke
Professor of Pediatric Ophthalmology
Research.
Eleanor Marmaduke was born in Vinton,
Iowa in 1903. She attended the University of Colorado
where she became a life long member of Kappa Kappa
Gamma. She began her career in teaching in a one
room log school house in Wyoming and became an
executive administrative assistant for Bechtel
Corporation. She was stationed thoughout the world in
Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Venezuela, Saudi Arabia,
England, France and Holland.
Ms. Marmaduke held a special place in her heart for our
Department and faculty. She had a strong interest in
FACULTY NEWS
Antonio Ciardella, MD will be lecturing at
the 27th Annual Pan American Congress of
Ophthalmology in Cancun Mexico on May
30, 2007. His lecture will be part of the
retina subspecialty day and will be on the
topic of Autofluorescence. Congratulations
to Dr. Ciardella and his wife Dr. Jasmeliz
Ciardella as they celebrated the birth of their first
children, twin daughters Francesca & Chiara on
December 5th.
Richard Davidson, MD was recently invited
to be a guest lecturer at the 13th Annual
Catholic University Symposium of
Ophthalmology: New Horizons for NonSurgical Corneal Reshaping and Lamellar
Keratoplasty in Seoul, Korea on February
3rd, 2007. He gave lectures on Deep
Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty and Introduction to
DSAEK Surgery, both of which are new techniques for
corneal transplantation. Dr. Davidson served as an
associate examiner for the ABO oral board examination
given in November 2006.
Arlene Drack, MD has been asked to be cochair of the Seurat Society, a group started
by the University of Iowa dedicated to
advancing and sharing knowledge about
genetic eye disease. She is also an active
participant in Project 3000, an initiative
aimed at getting a genetics diagnosis for
each of the estimated 3000 Americans living
with Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA). LCA is a
congenital form of retinitis pigmentosa which causes
lifelong blindness. Genetic diagnosis is a first step toward
treatment protocols.
pediatric eye care and chose to donate to that cause.
She was really a strong woman who wanted to make a
difference for children after she suffered a retinal
condition.
Dr. Arlene Drack is the Eleanor Marmaduke Professor
of Pediatric Ophthalmology. Dr. Drack joined our
faculty in 2003 and is the Chief of Pediatric
Ophthalmology at the Children’s Hospital. She began
her career in pediatric ophthalmology at Emory
University for a decade before she joined us here in
Colorado. She is fellowship trained in both Pediatric
Ophthalmology and Strabismus and Molecular Genetics
in Iowa University and in Ophthalmic Genetics at the
Wilmer Eye Institute of Johns Hopkins. Dr. Drack also
staffs our ophthalmic genetics clinic and is developing a
regional ophthalmic genetics clinical research center
here at RMLEI with The Children’s Hospital.
Vikram Durairaj, MD authored an article
titled “Clinical Perspectives of Thyroid Eye
Disease” which was published in the
December issue of the American Journal of
Medicine. In addition, he was a co-author
for Tarsoconjunctival pedical flap for the
management of severe scleral melt which
was published in the February issue of
Cornea. He also co-authored a section on WebMD
regarding Blepharoplasty, Upper Eyelid. Lectures that Dr.
Durairaj gave include several Grand Rounds presentations
at the University of Pittsburgh in October 2006; Yale
University (gave lectures to the Department of
Ophthalmology and the Department of Surgery) in October
2006; and the University of Florence, Italy in November
2006. He also lectured to the Ophthalmology and ENT
residents in Oklahoma City in October 2006. Dr. Durairaj
was a featured speaker at the Otolaryngology/Head and
Neck Surgery Ultimate Mid-Winter Meeting in Vail,
Colorado in January 2007 and presented 3 lectures. He
also was an invited speaker at the University of Nebraska
Late Winter Symposium “Updates in ENT” in Silverthorne,
Colorado in March 2007.
Drs. Durairaj, Davidson, Kahook and Taravella traveled
to Fort Worth, Texas in February to present at an Alcon
sponsored Continuing Professional Education Meeting.
Kara Hanson, OD was the keynote speaker
at the Association for Education and
Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually
Impaired, NM Chapter (NM-AER) conference
Feb 22-23. Dr. Hanson reviewed the
components of a low vision evaluation and
also lectured on the advantages and
disadvantages of specific low vision devices.
New Mexico School for the Blind and Visually Impaired
will be holding their second pilot low vision clinic
(NMSBVI’s Access to Learning Clinic), for which Dr.
(continued on reverse side)
PEDIATRIC OPHTHALMOLOGY UPDATE
FEATURE FOCUS
The Children’s Hospital Eye Clinic is pleased to
announce that the pediatric satellite clinic at the
Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute is in full swing.
Drs. Arlene Drack (Chair of the Ophthalmology
Division at The Children's Hospital), Theodore Curtis,
and Rebecca Sands Braverman are available for
pediatric consultation at RMLEI by calling the TCH
Eye Clinic at 303-861-6062.
Our pediatric ophthalmologists are proud to be
involved with the Colorado Lions KidSight Program.
Drs. Drack and Curtis are co-directors of the program,
and eye clinic manager Cameile Moore, COMT, CO,
MS, serves as program coordinator. The Colorado
KidSight Program is a project of the Lions of Colorado.
Volunteers from various Lions Clubs go to preschools
across the state of Colorado to take photoscreening
pictures of children’s eyes. The light reflected from the
retina is analyzed to detect refractive errors,
strabismus, and /or media opacities. Bright crescents
in the pupils indicate a possible vision problem - the
specific type of
problem is indicated
by the size and
location of the
crescent. This
proves helpful as
many of the children
are too young to
read and thus
unable to participate
in standard eye
exams. The
Lion Allan Leach from the Loveland Lions Club showing
Children's Hospital
a preschooler the photo of his eyes.
Eye Clinic is the
interpretation center for the Lion’s Club of Colorado
photoscreening tests and Drs. Drack & Curtis
regularly receive photos for analysis. The
interpretation of these special photographs enable the
diagnosis of the major causes of vision loss in
children. If a problem is detected, the Lion’s Club
follows up with each patient and family to ensure the
preschoolers receive proper eye care.
(Left) Two examples of the types of photos taken with the Photoscreening camera. These
photos were taken directly from the Kidsight Photoscreening Training manual, given to
the physicians to depict the variance. By examining the “crescent”, the physicians can
identify strabismus, cataracts, and amblyopia. In normal photos, the “crescent” should be
minimal or non-occurring; the larger the “crescent” the greater the severity of the child’s
visual problem. In the first set of two photographs, the physicians can detect that the
child has strabismus (crossing of the eyes) in their right eye, likely to cause amblyopia
(an impairment of the vision in one eye caused by lack of use). In the second set of two
photographs, the child’s left eye is normal and the right eye depicts high hyperopia
(farsightedness). A difference in refraction between the two eyes is the most common
cause of amblyopia.
FOCUS ON RESIDENTS and FELLOWS
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A RESIDENT . . .
For the past three years I have been part of the
University of Colorado ophthalmology training program,
and (along with the other 11 residents) have stayed quite
busy with clinical responsibilities, educational
conferences, and research. The typical day starts with a
case presentation at the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye
Institute. The residents present the majority of cases,
and then faculty give their input to stimulate discussion
and emphasize teaching points. From there, we all go
our separate ways to cover several hospitals for a diverse
training experience.
Throughout our three years of training we rotate several
times through the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute.
We have the privilege of working closely with attendings
in an outstanding facility. With the latest technology
available at our finger tips, we become proficient at
diagnosing and treating complicated eye diseases.
Three months of each year we rotate through the VA
Medical Center and Denver Health Medical Center.
As first year residents, these rotations give us the
opportunity to acquire basic exam skills and learn how to
manage commonly encountered eye diseases. Second
year residents gradually take on more responsibility and
begin to learn cataract surgery. During the third year of
our residency we gain the majority of our surgical
WE VERY PROUDLY PRESENT OUR GRADUATES
RICHARD CANNON, MD plans to join a
comprehensive ophthalmology practice in the
northern Rocky Mountains.
CHRISTOPHER GELSTON, MD is completing his
fellowship in Cornea, External Disease and
Refractive Surgery. He has accepted a position
with Dr. Stuart Kaufman in Tampa, Florida.
LEE KRAMM, MD has accepted the Medical
Officer position within the FDA's Division of
Ophthalmic Devices with a clinical appointment
at the National Eye Institute and the Bethesda
Naval Hospital.
NATHAN RUDOMETKIN, MD is finishing his
2-year fellowship in Vitreoretinal Disease and
Surgery. He will be joining a private retina
practice outside of Temecula, California.
SCOTT THOMAS, MD will be joining a
comprehensive ophthalmology practice in
San Antonio, Texas.
This photo is of a little girl named Cassidy, from Littleton,
who was referred for a full eye exam as a result of a vision
screening at her preschool in 2006. Her mom gave us this
testimonial:
"Thanks to the screening we found out that Cassidy has
anisometropia. The doctor said she could have gone blind
in that eye. She had never given any indication that she
had any problems with her vision. The screening was such
a good thing."
LAUREN ZIMSKI, MD plans to join a
comprehensive ophthalmology practice in the
Denver Metro area
CONTINUING RESIDENTS CLASS OF 2008
Suzanne Falkenberry, MD
Eric Hink, MD
Parin Gohel, MD
Anand Shah, MD
Geetha Athappilly, MD
Drew Dixon, MD
Ryan Berger, MD
Ginny Kullman, MD
CLASS OF 2009
experience. Residents are fortunate to perform a
tremendous variety of eye surgery including cataract
surgery, in addition to glaucoma, oculoplastics, and
retina surgery during these rotations.
The majority of our pediatric training is at The Children’s
Hospital which has both outpatient clinics and a busy
inpatient service. We see everything from commonly
encountered eye problems in the pediatric population to
rare genetic diseases, and also learn strabismus surgery.
All residents are encouraged to take an active role in
research. This is not difficult, as many of the faculty
have projects, and are eager for the help. As a reward for
their hard work, residents are sponsored to present their
research at national meetings. Every June there is a
research symposium for faculty and residents to
showcase their achievements.
We are fortunate to have four hospitals that provide us
with diverse learning experiences and ample surgical
breadth and volume. At the end of our three years, the
large clinical volume ensures we are armed with the
knowledge and skills necessary to be successful as
general ophthalmologists or to pursue subspecialty
training.
Lauren Zimski, MD
PGY-4
Chief Administrative Resident
WELCOME TO OUR INCOMING CLASS OF 2010!
These physicians will join our residency program at the
PGY-2 level in July 2007.
Dave Freeman, MD from the University of Nevada School
of Medicine is completing his intern year in the Internal
Medicine program at Exempla St. Joseph Hospital in
Denver.
Andy Hendrick, MD from the Ohio State University
College of Medicine and Public Health is also finishing his
intern year at Exempla St. Joseph Hospital’s Internal
Medicine program in Denver.
Michael Horsley, MD from the University of Illinois at
Chicago College of Medicine is currently finishing his
intern year at Tucson Hospitals Medical Education
Program in Tucson, Arizona.
Chris Russo, MD from Drexel University College of
Medicine is currently finishing his intern year in the
Internal Medicine program at Winthop-University
Hospital program in Mineola, New York.
We have very recently matched with four excellent
candidates for our residency class to start in July 2008.
We welcome our future-residents who will graduate in
2011:
Emily McCourt is currently a fourth-year medical
student at The State University of New York at Buffalo.
Leonard Seibold is a fourth-year student at the
University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. Carolyn Pan
is a senior medical student at Wayne State University
School of Medicine. Lisa Wong is in her final year at
Stanford University School of Medicine.
Foundation Fighting Blindness Schedule
Mile High Denver Chapter
May 12 Chapter meeting 10 - 1 pm
Jun 18 Swing for Sight Golf Tournament
Jul 20-22 Visions Conference - Kansas City
Sep 29 Visionwalk Colorado - Hudson Gardens
Call 303-799-1501 for more details
FOCUS ON FACULTY
We are pleased to announce a new
professorship in the Department of
Ophthalmology, The Eleanor Marmaduke
Professor of Pediatric Ophthalmology
Research.
Eleanor Marmaduke was born in Vinton,
Iowa in 1903. She attended the University of Colorado
where she became a life long member of Kappa Kappa
Gamma. She began her career in teaching in a one
room log school house in Wyoming and became an
executive administrative assistant for Bechtel
Corporation. She was stationed thoughout the world in
Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Venezuela, Saudi Arabia,
England, France and Holland.
Ms. Marmaduke held a special place in her heart for our
Department and faculty. She had a strong interest in
FACULTY NEWS
Antonio Ciardella, MD will be lecturing at
the 27th Annual Pan American Congress of
Ophthalmology in Cancun Mexico on May
30, 2007. His lecture will be part of the
retina subspecialty day and will be on the
topic of Autofluorescence. Congratulations
to Dr. Ciardella and his wife Dr. Jasmeliz
Ciardella as they celebrated the birth of their first
children, twin daughters Francesca & Chiara on
December 5th.
Richard Davidson, MD was recently invited
to be a guest lecturer at the 13th Annual
Catholic University Symposium of
Ophthalmology: New Horizons for NonSurgical Corneal Reshaping and Lamellar
Keratoplasty in Seoul, Korea on February
3rd, 2007. He gave lectures on Deep
Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty and Introduction to
DSAEK Surgery, both of which are new techniques for
corneal transplantation. Dr. Davidson served as an
associate examiner for the ABO oral board examination
given in November 2006.
Arlene Drack, MD has been asked to be cochair of the Seurat Society, a group started
by the University of Iowa dedicated to
advancing and sharing knowledge about
genetic eye disease. She is also an active
participant in Project 3000, an initiative
aimed at getting a genetics diagnosis for
each of the estimated 3000 Americans living
with Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA). LCA is a
congenital form of retinitis pigmentosa which causes
lifelong blindness. Genetic diagnosis is a first step toward
treatment protocols.
pediatric eye care and chose to donate to that cause.
She was really a strong woman who wanted to make a
difference for children after she suffered a retinal
condition.
Dr. Arlene Drack is the Eleanor Marmaduke Professor
of Pediatric Ophthalmology. Dr. Drack joined our
faculty in 2003 and is the Chief of Pediatric
Ophthalmology at the Children’s Hospital. She began
her career in pediatric ophthalmology at Emory
University for a decade before she joined us here in
Colorado. She is fellowship trained in both Pediatric
Ophthalmology and Strabismus and Molecular Genetics
in Iowa University and in Ophthalmic Genetics at the
Wilmer Eye Institute of Johns Hopkins. Dr. Drack also
staffs our ophthalmic genetics clinic and is developing a
regional ophthalmic genetics clinical research center
here at RMLEI with The Children’s Hospital.
Vikram Durairaj, MD authored an article
titled “Clinical Perspectives of Thyroid Eye
Disease” which was published in the
December issue of the American Journal of
Medicine. In addition, he was a co-author
for Tarsoconjunctival pedical flap for the
management of severe scleral melt which
was published in the February issue of
Cornea. He also co-authored a section on WebMD
regarding Blepharoplasty, Upper Eyelid. Lectures that Dr.
Durairaj gave include several Grand Rounds presentations
at the University of Pittsburgh in October 2006; Yale
University (gave lectures to the Department of
Ophthalmology and the Department of Surgery) in October
2006; and the University of Florence, Italy in November
2006. He also lectured to the Ophthalmology and ENT
residents in Oklahoma City in October 2006. Dr. Durairaj
was a featured speaker at the Otolaryngology/Head and
Neck Surgery Ultimate Mid-Winter Meeting in Vail,
Colorado in January 2007 and presented 3 lectures. He
also was an invited speaker at the University of Nebraska
Late Winter Symposium “Updates in ENT” in Silverthorne,
Colorado in March 2007.
Drs. Durairaj, Davidson, Kahook and Taravella traveled
to Fort Worth, Texas in February to present at an Alcon
sponsored Continuing Professional Education Meeting.
Kara Hanson, OD was the keynote speaker
at the Association for Education and
Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually
Impaired, NM Chapter (NM-AER) conference
Feb 22-23. Dr. Hanson reviewed the
components of a low vision evaluation and
also lectured on the advantages and
disadvantages of specific low vision devices.
New Mexico School for the Blind and Visually Impaired
will be holding their second pilot low vision clinic
(NMSBVI’s Access to Learning Clinic), for which Dr.
(continued on reverse side)
FACULTY NEWS continued
Malik Kahook, MD recently had his
research recognized by AAO News and Views
for his study on “Location of glaucoma
drainage devices relative to the
optic nerve”. He also was awarded the
American Glaucoma Society Patient
Adherence Research Award (2007) on
December of 2006. This is a competitive grant
awarded to one glaucoma specialist in the United States
to study compliance to glaucoma medical therapy. He is
also the recipient of an AGS Clinician Scientist Grant for
2007 for his study on new medications for neuroprotection. Dr. Kahook was also given an unrestricted
grant awarded by Alcon for a study involving the effects
of glaucoma medications on the ocular surface. Dr.
Kahook was named Associate Editor of Ophthalmic
Surgery Lasers and Imaging and section editor of
Glaucoma Today “Residents and Fellows Q & A”.
At the Vail Vitrectomy meeting held in March 2007,
Naresh Mandava, MD showcased a new instrument for
retinal surgery which he developed with Dutch
Ophthalmics Inc.
Jeffrey Olson, MD continues his work in the
vision science laboratory. His research, coauthored with Dr. Mandava, entitled “Intravitreal Infliximab inhibits choroidal
neovascularization” will be published in a
forthcoming issue of the journal Archives
of Ophthalmology. Also, he recently published
an article “Cerebellar and retinal vascular
lesions in a postpartum patient,” co-authored by Naresh
Mandava, MD and Jeffrey Bennett, MD, PhD, in the
journal American Family Physician.
Michael Taravella, MD was selected to join
the Teacher’s Scholars Program at UCDHSC.
Dr. Taravella brings 20 years of teaching
experience to this structured program. His
goal is to define how modern surgery should
be taught. His work includes the design of a
cataract surgery simulator here at RMLEI.
Congratulations to our very own
Rebecca Sands Braverman, MD and
Jon Braverman, MD who married on
New Year’s Eve, 2006 in
Wayne, New Jersey.
FACULTY LISTING
Our full time faculty at the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute is comprised of
Ophthalmologists with specialties that serve all your ophthalmic needs. www.eyeinstitute.org
CALL 720-848-2020 FOR APPOINTMENTS WITH THE FOLLOWING
Michael Erlanger, MD
Richard Davidson, MD
J. Bronwyn Bateman, MD
Assistant Professor
Assistant Professor
Professor
Pediatric Ophthalmology & Cornea & External Diseases Cornea & External Diseases
Refractive Surgery
Adult Strabismus
Darren Gregory, MD
Ophthalmic Genetics
Arlene Drack, MD
Assistant Professor
Associate Professor
Rebecca Sands
Cornea & External Diseases
Pediatric Ophthalmology &
Braverman, MD
Kara Hanson, OD
Adult Strabismus
Assistant Professor
Clinical Instructor
Pediatric Ophthalmology & Ophthalmic Genetics
Low Vision Rehabilitation
Adult Strabismus
Vikram Durairaj, MD
Malik Kahook, MD
Associate Professor
Theodore Curtis, MD
Assistant Professor
Ophthalmic Plastic and
Assistant Professor
Glaucoma & Cataracts
Pediatric Ophthalmology & Reconstructive Surgery
Orbital Surgery
Adult Strabismus
CALL 303-436-6426 AT DENVER HEALTH FOR APPOINTMENTS WITH:
Jon Braverman, MD
Antonio Ciardella, MD
Nicholas Faberowski, MD
Assistant Clinical Professor Assistant Professor
Assistant Professor
Comprehensive
Vitreoretinal Disease
Glaucoma
Ophthalmology
FEATURE FOCUS
!
UA L
University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center
Department of Ophthalmology
Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute
Mail Stop F731
1675 North Ursula Street
P.O. Box 6510
Aurora, CO 80045
Denver, CO
Permit #2378
PAID
Non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
Jon M. Braverman, MD
Associate Clinical Professor
E DATE
Twenty-four hour emergency services complement the
Ocular and Orbital Trauma Services available through
the Department of Ophthalmology and Affiliate Centers.
Patient referrals are directed to us from throughout the
state of Colorado and surrounding states seeking the
expertise of this and the other Ophthalmology
Subspecialty Services offered in the Department of
Ophthalmology.
ANN
7 - 11 T H
AY
6, 200
RCH D
• JUNE 1 LMOLOGY RESEA
NNUAL
O P H TH A
- 11 T H A
, 2007 SIUM
O
9 & 20
• OCT. 1 LMOLOGY SYMP
O P H TH A
Many of our full-time attending physicians are very
experienced in the field of ocular and orbital trauma,
given our status as Level One (Denver Health Medical
Center, The Childrens’ Hospital) and Level Two
(University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences
Center) Trauma Centers. Collectively these centers see
a majority of annual cases of ocular and orbital trauma
in the Rocky Mountain Region. In 2006 ocular and
orbital trauma census data indicates approximately
1120 cases at Denver Health Medical Center, 100 cases
at University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences
Center, and 50 cases at The Childrens’ Hospital.
This annual experience has prepared the experts at
these centers to deal with a wide variety of injuries both
on an acute and post-acute rehabilitative level.
720-848-2020 is your direct link to the
Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute
for appointments or consultations with
an ophthalmology specialist.
Ocular and orbital trauma remains a
pandemic disease in both developed and
under-developed countries of the world.
Any person of any age could be affected by
these disorders as a result of accident or
assault. The mechanism of trauma can be
quite varied, even exotic, but visual
outcomes depend strongly on access to
expert specialized services such as those available
through the Department of Ophthalmology.
Michael Taravella, MD
Associate Professor
Cornea & External Diseases
Refractive Surgery
For more information visit us
on the web at
RMLEI DEPARTMENT OF OPHTHALMOLOGY AND AFFILIATE CENTERS
Jeffrey Olson, MD
Assistant Professor
Vitreoretinal Disease
www.eyeinstitute.org
OCULAR AND ORBITAL TRAUMA SERVICES
Naresh Mandava, MD
Associate Professor
Interim Chair
Vitreoretinal Disease
MISSION STATEMENT
CALL 720-848-2080 AT UCH FOR APPOINTMENTS WITH:
Jeffrey Bennett, MD
Victoria Pelak, MD
Associate Professor
Associate Professor
Neuro-ophthalmology
Neuro-ophthalmology
A glorious honeymoon was had in St.
John, U.S. Virgin Islands. Both are glad
to be back at work with fading tans.
DOCTORS:
Douglas MacKenzie, MD
Assistant Professor
Glaucoma
“To be a nationally recognized
Department of Ophthalmology
that serves the people of the
Rocky Mountain region by
providing exemplary patient
care founded on educational
leadership, innovative research,
and high ethical standards.”
SAVE TH
Congratulations to Dr. William Jackson who
was recently promoted to Professor Emeritus
in the Department of Ophthalmology.
Although Dr. Jackson has retired from
practice at the Barbara Davis Center for
Childhood Diabetes, he still remains active
in the department.
Drs. Antonio Ciardella & Naresh Mandava were recently
elected to the Macula Society and will be speaking at the
30th annual meeting scheduled for May 30- June 2 at
the London Hilton on Park Lane in London, England.
VISIONS
S P R I N G /S U M M E R , 2007
Hanson is a consultant. The first clinic in November was
a success, providing low vision evaluations to 12
students and recommendations for devices to help
expand their access to educational material.
VISIONS
S P R I N G /S U M M E R ,
S
A
PUBLICATION OF THE D EPARTMENT OF O PHTHALMOLOGY
R OCKY M OUNTAIN L IONS E YE I NSTITUTE
U NIVERSITY OF C OLORADO
2007
PRING
/S U M M E R , 2007
FOCUS ON THE INSTITUTE
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
The Department of Ophthalmology and
the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute
are engaged in many translational
projects which have the potential to
bring new drugs and devices to our
patients and do nothing short of
restore or preserve sight for our
patients. Translational research uses knowledge of
human biology to develop and test the feasibility of
ophthalmic-relevant interventions in humans and/or
determines the biological basis for observations in
individuals with ocular disease or in populations at
risk for ocular disease. It is our responsibility to our
patients as well as our academic and research
missions to invent, investigate, and implement these
new technologies.
The NIH (National Institutes of Health) and other
funding agencies have recently focused research
funding to areas, which have translational potential.
Clinically irrelevant research is no longer funded.
This is not to say that the most basic research is
not important. In fact, it is more important than
ever. We need to understand all of the mechanisms
and the genetics involved in complex diseases to
treat them. Unfortunately, the dollars are limited,
so the funding agencies need to be very focused in a
time when the possibilities for breakthroughs is
greater than ever.
Our Department is focused on several projects,
which we feel have the potential to be breakthrough
contributions. Our retina division is involved in
assessing different molecules which can treat wet
macular degeneration. Research starts in the lab
and drugs are tested in animal models before they
can be brought to FDA testing. Our retina division
also has a project in artificial vision, which may
some day lead to solutions for currently irreversible
and progressive blindness. Our glaucoma, orbit,
and cornea divisions are identifying undiscovered
proteins in the eye (proteomics) which could lead to
advances in early diagnosis of disease and potential
targets for treatment in diseases such as glaucoma,
retinal diseases, as well as more common conditions
such as severe dry eye syndrome.
The best physicians and surgeons will define the
research paths, which our basic researchers take.
It is the role of institutions like ours to define what
is clinically relevant. We are fortunate to have some
of the best ophthalmic surgeons and clinical
researchers in the country. The University of
Colorado School of Medicine is ranked 15th in the
country in NIH funding and we are in the midst of
developing one of the largest research centers in the
world on the UCDHSC Anschutz Medical campus.
The Department will continue to harness the energy
and brainpower of this cutting edge institution,
which is necessary for us to succeed in making
these news drugs and devices a reality.
Naresh Mandava, MD
Associate Professor and Interim Chair
Director, Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Clinic
Managing a hospital-based ophthalmology
clinic has provided me with an opportunity
to compare nursing skills to the unique
skill set of experienced ophthalmic
technicians. In ophthalmology, a majority
of technicians are trained on-the-job though there
are more and more ophthalmic technical training
programs popping up at universities around the
country. In the course of preparing a patient to see
an ophthalmologist for a specific eye problem,
ophthalmic technicians may perform over 20 various
ophthalmic testing procedures to assist the
ophthalmologist in determining exactly what eye
condition a patient may have. We are lucky here at
Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute (RMLEI) that
the majority of our technicians have over 10 years of
experience working in ophthalmology, and several
have over 20 years of experience. In addition to
many years of experience, the vast majority of our
technicians have been certified through the Joint
Commission on Allied Health Personnel in
Ophthalmology. By ensuring that our staff has
adequate skills and experience, and by providing
ongoing technician education courses, we are able to
deliver the quality of care that our patients expect
when they come to our facility.
Loretta Todaro
Clinic Manager, Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Clinic
FACULTY NEWS continued
Malik Kahook, MD recently had his
research recognized by AAO News and Views
for his study on “Location of glaucoma
drainage devices relative to the
optic nerve”. He also was awarded the
American Glaucoma Society Patient
Adherence Research Award (2007) on
December of 2006. This is a competitive grant
awarded to one glaucoma specialist in the United States
to study compliance to glaucoma medical therapy. He is
also the recipient of an AGS Clinician Scientist Grant for
2007 for his study on new medications for neuroprotection. Dr. Kahook was also given an unrestricted
grant awarded by Alcon for a study involving the effects
of glaucoma medications on the ocular surface. Dr.
Kahook was named Associate Editor of Ophthalmic
Surgery Lasers and Imaging and section editor of
Glaucoma Today “Residents and Fellows Q & A”.
At the Vail Vitrectomy meeting held in March 2007,
Naresh Mandava, MD showcased a new instrument for
retinal surgery which he developed with Dutch
Ophthalmics Inc.
Jeffrey Olson, MD continues his work in the
vision science laboratory. His research, coauthored with Dr. Mandava, entitled “Intravitreal Infliximab inhibits choroidal
neovascularization” will be published in a
forthcoming issue of the journal Archives
of Ophthalmology. Also, he recently published
an article “Cerebellar and retinal vascular
lesions in a postpartum patient,” co-authored by Naresh
Mandava, MD and Jeffrey Bennett, MD, PhD, in the
journal American Family Physician.
Michael Taravella, MD was selected to join
the Teacher’s Scholars Program at UCDHSC.
Dr. Taravella brings 20 years of teaching
experience to this structured program. His
goal is to define how modern surgery should
be taught. His work includes the design of a
cataract surgery simulator here at RMLEI.
Congratulations to our very own
Rebecca Sands Braverman, MD and
Jon Braverman, MD who married on
New Year’s Eve, 2006 in
Wayne, New Jersey.
FACULTY LISTING
Our full time faculty at the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute is comprised of
Ophthalmologists with specialties that serve all your ophthalmic needs. www.eyeinstitute.org
CALL 720-848-2020 FOR APPOINTMENTS WITH THE FOLLOWING
Michael Erlanger, MD
Richard Davidson, MD
J. Bronwyn Bateman, MD
Assistant Professor
Assistant Professor
Professor
Pediatric Ophthalmology & Cornea & External Diseases Cornea & External Diseases
Refractive Surgery
Adult Strabismus
Darren Gregory, MD
Ophthalmic Genetics
Arlene Drack, MD
Assistant Professor
Associate Professor
Rebecca Sands
Cornea & External Diseases
Pediatric Ophthalmology &
Braverman, MD
Kara Hanson, OD
Adult Strabismus
Assistant Professor
Clinical Instructor
Pediatric Ophthalmology & Ophthalmic Genetics
Low Vision Rehabilitation
Adult Strabismus
Vikram Durairaj, MD
Malik Kahook, MD
Associate Professor
Theodore Curtis, MD
Assistant Professor
Ophthalmic Plastic and
Assistant Professor
Glaucoma & Cataracts
Pediatric Ophthalmology & Reconstructive Surgery
Orbital Surgery
Adult Strabismus
CALL 303-436-6426 AT DENVER HEALTH FOR APPOINTMENTS WITH:
Jon Braverman, MD
Antonio Ciardella, MD
Nicholas Faberowski, MD
Assistant Clinical Professor Assistant Professor
Assistant Professor
Comprehensive
Vitreoretinal Disease
Glaucoma
Ophthalmology
FEATURE FOCUS
!
UA L
University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center
Department of Ophthalmology
Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute
Mail Stop F731
1675 North Ursula Street
P.O. Box 6510
Aurora, CO 80045
Denver, CO
Permit #2378
PAID
Non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
Jon M. Braverman, MD
Associate Clinical Professor
E DATE
Twenty-four hour emergency services complement the
Ocular and Orbital Trauma Services available through
the Department of Ophthalmology and Affiliate Centers.
Patient referrals are directed to us from throughout the
state of Colorado and surrounding states seeking the
expertise of this and the other Ophthalmology
Subspecialty Services offered in the Department of
Ophthalmology.
ANN
7 - 11 T H
AY
6, 200
RCH D
• JUNE 1 LMOLOGY RESEA
NNUAL
O P H TH A
- 11 T H A
, 2007 SIUM
O
9 & 20
• OCT. 1 LMOLOGY SYMP
O P H TH A
Many of our full-time attending physicians are very
experienced in the field of ocular and orbital trauma,
given our status as Level One (Denver Health Medical
Center, The Childrens’ Hospital) and Level Two
(University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences
Center) Trauma Centers. Collectively these centers see
a majority of annual cases of ocular and orbital trauma
in the Rocky Mountain Region. In 2006 ocular and
orbital trauma census data indicates approximately
1120 cases at Denver Health Medical Center, 100 cases
at University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences
Center, and 50 cases at The Childrens’ Hospital.
This annual experience has prepared the experts at
these centers to deal with a wide variety of injuries both
on an acute and post-acute rehabilitative level.
720-848-2020 is your direct link to the
Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute
for appointments or consultations with
an ophthalmology specialist.
Ocular and orbital trauma remains a
pandemic disease in both developed and
under-developed countries of the world.
Any person of any age could be affected by
these disorders as a result of accident or
assault. The mechanism of trauma can be
quite varied, even exotic, but visual
outcomes depend strongly on access to
expert specialized services such as those available
through the Department of Ophthalmology.
Michael Taravella, MD
Associate Professor
Cornea & External Diseases
Refractive Surgery
For more information visit us
on the web at
RMLEI DEPARTMENT OF OPHTHALMOLOGY AND AFFILIATE CENTERS
Jeffrey Olson, MD
Assistant Professor
Vitreoretinal Disease
www.eyeinstitute.org
OCULAR AND ORBITAL TRAUMA SERVICES
Naresh Mandava, MD
Associate Professor
Interim Chair
Vitreoretinal Disease
MISSION STATEMENT
CALL 720-848-2080 AT UCH FOR APPOINTMENTS WITH:
Jeffrey Bennett, MD
Victoria Pelak, MD
Associate Professor
Associate Professor
Neuro-ophthalmology
Neuro-ophthalmology
A glorious honeymoon was had in St.
John, U.S. Virgin Islands. Both are glad
to be back at work with fading tans.
DOCTORS:
Douglas MacKenzie, MD
Assistant Professor
Glaucoma
“To be a nationally recognized
Department of Ophthalmology
that serves the people of the
Rocky Mountain region by
providing exemplary patient
care founded on educational
leadership, innovative research,
and high ethical standards.”
SAVE TH
Congratulations to Dr. William Jackson who
was recently promoted to Professor Emeritus
in the Department of Ophthalmology.
Although Dr. Jackson has retired from
practice at the Barbara Davis Center for
Childhood Diabetes, he still remains active
in the department.
Drs. Antonio Ciardella & Naresh Mandava were recently
elected to the Macula Society and will be speaking at the
30th annual meeting scheduled for May 30- June 2 at
the London Hilton on Park Lane in London, England.
VISIONS
S P R I N G /S U M M E R , 2007
Hanson is a consultant. The first clinic in November was
a success, providing low vision evaluations to 12
students and recommendations for devices to help
expand their access to educational material.
VISIONS
S P R I N G /S U M M E R ,
S
A
PUBLICATION OF THE D EPARTMENT OF O PHTHALMOLOGY
R OCKY M OUNTAIN L IONS E YE I NSTITUTE
U NIVERSITY OF C OLORADO
2007
PRING
/S U M M E R , 2007
FOCUS ON THE INSTITUTE
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
The Department of Ophthalmology and
the Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute
are engaged in many translational
projects which have the potential to
bring new drugs and devices to our
patients and do nothing short of
restore or preserve sight for our
patients. Translational research uses knowledge of
human biology to develop and test the feasibility of
ophthalmic-relevant interventions in humans and/or
determines the biological basis for observations in
individuals with ocular disease or in populations at
risk for ocular disease. It is our responsibility to our
patients as well as our academic and research
missions to invent, investigate, and implement these
new technologies.
The NIH (National Institutes of Health) and other
funding agencies have recently focused research
funding to areas, which have translational potential.
Clinically irrelevant research is no longer funded.
This is not to say that the most basic research is
not important. In fact, it is more important than
ever. We need to understand all of the mechanisms
and the genetics involved in complex diseases to
treat them. Unfortunately, the dollars are limited,
so the funding agencies need to be very focused in a
time when the possibilities for breakthroughs is
greater than ever.
Our Department is focused on several projects,
which we feel have the potential to be breakthrough
contributions. Our retina division is involved in
assessing different molecules which can treat wet
macular degeneration. Research starts in the lab
and drugs are tested in animal models before they
can be brought to FDA testing. Our retina division
also has a project in artificial vision, which may
some day lead to solutions for currently irreversible
and progressive blindness. Our glaucoma, orbit,
and cornea divisions are identifying undiscovered
proteins in the eye (proteomics) which could lead to
advances in early diagnosis of disease and potential
targets for treatment in diseases such as glaucoma,
retinal diseases, as well as more common conditions
such as severe dry eye syndrome.
The best physicians and surgeons will define the
research paths, which our basic researchers take.
It is the role of institutions like ours to define what
is clinically relevant. We are fortunate to have some
of the best ophthalmic surgeons and clinical
researchers in the country. The University of
Colorado School of Medicine is ranked 15th in the
country in NIH funding and we are in the midst of
developing one of the largest research centers in the
world on the UCDHSC Anschutz Medical campus.
The Department will continue to harness the energy
and brainpower of this cutting edge institution,
which is necessary for us to succeed in making
these news drugs and devices a reality.
Naresh Mandava, MD
Associate Professor and Interim Chair
Director, Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Clinic
Managing a hospital-based ophthalmology
clinic has provided me with an opportunity
to compare nursing skills to the unique
skill set of experienced ophthalmic
technicians. In ophthalmology, a majority
of technicians are trained on-the-job though there
are more and more ophthalmic technical training
programs popping up at universities around the
country. In the course of preparing a patient to see
an ophthalmologist for a specific eye problem,
ophthalmic technicians may perform over 20 various
ophthalmic testing procedures to assist the
ophthalmologist in determining exactly what eye
condition a patient may have. We are lucky here at
Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Institute (RMLEI) that
the majority of our technicians have over 10 years of
experience working in ophthalmology, and several
have over 20 years of experience. In addition to
many years of experience, the vast majority of our
technicians have been certified through the Joint
Commission on Allied Health Personnel in
Ophthalmology. By ensuring that our staff has
adequate skills and experience, and by providing
ongoing technician education courses, we are able to
deliver the quality of care that our patients expect
when they come to our facility.
Loretta Todaro
Clinic Manager, Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Clinic