Upfront
Using a New Therapy for AMD -- and More

This March/April issue of Retinal Physician continues our coverage of retinal vascular occlusive disease with a discussion of emerging therapies for central retinal vein occlusion. We move on from there to cover the topic of uveitis, offering a comprehensive review of the current recommendations for patient evaluation. We also hear from Dr. Didier Ducournau, of Nantes, France, who describes his slit lamp illumination technique for intraoperative visualization of the ILM and vitreoretinal interface.

The approval and introduction into clinical practice of Macugen has pushed the issue of drug delivery to the forefront. Specifically, intravitreal injection of pharmacologic agents is becoming more commonplace in retinal practices today. Here we include a discussion of some of the issues surrounding this practice, including minimizing complications. Further, we explore possible solutions to the problem of safely and effectively delivering medications to the posterior segment through alternative drug delivery systems.

This issue also introduces a new column coordinated by Dr. Abdhish Bhavsar titled "Face Off," in which our colleagues have an opportunity to present conflicting views on a variety of issues. The initial column features a debate on the value of intravitreal Kenalog in some specific situations.

In addition, Senior Editor Jerry Helzner shows us how Wall Street analysts evaluate eyecare stocks and how they interact with eyecare companies in this new era of full and public disclosure. And we're sure you will find John Pinto's article on retinal practice interesting. He gives us his expert perspective on the unique challenges and rewards of our subspecialty and our careers, including what he calls "the retinal personality."

JOIN US AT THE RETINAL PHYSICIAN 2005 SYMPOSIUM

Finally, please read about the Retinal Physician 2005 Symposium, which will be held May 19­22 at Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas, and feature up-to-the-minute information on current and future treatment strategies in medical and surgical vitreoretinal care. You can find information beginning on page 16 of this issue, and register online at www.RPS2005.com.