Inside MEA's Spring/Summer 2006 Newsletter
Inside MEA's Fall/Winter 2005 Newsletter
Inside MEAs Spring/Summer 2005 Newsletter
Inside MEA's Fall/Winter 2004 Newsletter
Inside MEA's Spring/Summer 2004 Newsletter
Inside MEA's Fall/Winter 2003 Newsletter
Inside MEA's Fall/Winter 2011 Newsletter
Our Hyde Park Office Has Moved
 This map shows our new location as of October 3, 2011. It is just a few buildings away in the same Hyde Park office complex. We will remind patients of our new location when we confirm appointments.
 Scan the barcode to the right with your mobile device for MapQuest directions. To download a code scanner app onto your mobile device go to your App store and search for AT&T code scanner or go to http://scan.mobi.
CLIMB FOR SIGHT
In January 2012 Dr. Ilya Rozenbaum is going to Africa to Climb for Sight! He has been training with running, mountain biking, and swimming to prepare for his climb. Mt. Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing and the tallest"walkable" mountain in the world. Although it is not a technical climb and doesn't require any special rock-climbing skills, it is very physically challenging. Each year, while attempting to climb the mountain, people die of hypothermia, altitude sickness, rock slides, etc. Some even estimate that more people have died climbing Kilimanjaro than Mount Everest.
Climb for Sight is sponsored by Vision for the Poor, a non-governmental, non-sectarian, non-profit humanitarian organization dedicated to reducing avoidable blindness by empowering, training, and equipping eye doctors in developing countries. Climb for Sight is part of their campaign to eliminate childhood blindness in Guatemala. Money raised by the climb will help fund the sight-saving surgery for children at the Visualiza/Pescatore Eye Clinics. Since 1997, more than 450,000 patients have been treated, over 240,000 eye glasses provided and 26,000 sight-restoring surgeries performed. Three new clinic sites now provide access to all eye care services for 4 million of the poorest people in Central America. Vision for the Poor employs 95 Guatemalan health providers including 7 ophthalmologists and 3 optometrists. To date, 2,500 children have received surgery.
Donating is Easy!
Please go to VisionForThePoor.org and click on"Donate" in the right upper corner.
Astigmatism Correcting Contact Lenses
Many people with astigmatism have been told that they cannot wear contact lenses. Thanks to new developments, there have been multiple improvements in both the design and the material of astigmatism correcting contacts.
Astigmatism means the cornea is shaped more like a football instead of being round like a basketball. This prevents the light entering the eye from focusing at one point, leading to blurred vision for both distance and near. Soft contact lenses that correct astigmatism are called toric contact lenses; they were traditionally designed with a thick zone at the bottom called a prism ballast which lead to some discomfort.
Current innovations use strategically-placed thin and slightly thicker zones to not only improve comfort, but reduce rotation and allow for more stable vision. In addition to a more visually-stable design, patients can now enjoy these toric contacts in newer materials like silicone hydrogel. The new lenses allow more oxygen to reach the eye. These contacts are also treated with a special process to increase their ability to maintain moisture creating more comfort for the wearer throughout the day.
If you have astigmatism and have always wanted to try contact lenses, now is the time. Please call our office to schedule an appointment with one of our optometrists.
Patient Satisfaction Surveys Launched at MEA
In order to serve you better, we have implemented an on-line patient satisfaction survey that is emailed (to every patient that has shared their email address with us) after every visit.
Your input is very important to us. We take your comments very seriously and do our best to respond to your suggestions. We thank you for your time and concern.
Available Eye Health Items at MEA
Not enough lashes? Latisse® is the first and only FDA-approved treatment that grows lashes longer, fuller and darker.
 The Cress Dropper™ attaches to most eye medication bottles. The arched area of the dropper rests on the bridge of the nose with the dropper tip touching the inside corner of the eye. By gently squeezing the bottle, the Cress Dropper™ administers an accurate dose of medication every time.- Solar Shield® Fits Over are non-polarized sunglasses that fit over your regular glasses.
- Tears Again® advanced Liposome Spray is a unique eyelid spray to add moisture to your eyes and relieve discomfort and computer related eyestrain. Spray and continue working without instilling drops into your eyes.
- Tranquileyes™ Eye Hydrating Goggles create instant moist heat therapy for the treatment of dry eye syndrome and blepharitis (chronic inflammation of eyelids). Heat is activated by"snapping" the center of the gel pad or microwaving the gel pad then inserting the pads into the foam goggles for use. The heat is sustained for about 20-25 minutes. You may also freeze the gel pads to obtain cold relief for the treatment of ocular allergies or eyelid puffiness. The gel packs are reusable approximately 100 times for heat. The goggles come in three fabulous colors: hot pink, bright blue and lime green.
Cataract Surgery Aids Vision Quality
Today patients are living longer and are remaining active throughout their adult years; as a result they are looking for the best possible vision throughout their lifetime. Presbyopia correcting implants have now spilled over to refractive lens exchange (RLE) procedures. Early age related lens changes, like small cataracts, may affect vision quality. These early cataracts can cause problems with glare from on-coming headlights as well as decreased clarity at dusk or on rainy & foggy days. With newer technology that we have at MEA, we can diagnose the effects of your cloudy lenses on nighttime driving. Moreover with the presbyopia correcting implants, we can try to correct your vision for distance, intermediate and near if you are a candidate. Unlocking the full potential of these advanced technology implants requires greater attention with a much higher level of precision and individualized care than that needed in traditional cataract surgery. We at MEA are fully committed to providing you with the best available surgical options.
The latest Equipment At MEA
At MEA, we upgraded to the latest generation diagnostic 3D wave combination topographer and wavefront analyzer to better match the implants to your eyes. This device helps evaluate the size of your pupil in bright as well as dim light and gives us information on the overall surgical outcome probability. We also have the latest contrast sensitivity testing units to provide information under standardized lighting conditions. These simulate real-world driving conditions. Contrast sensitivity is an excellent tool to help us understand the disability suffered by cataract patients.
WHAT'S NEW with MEA
- Cynthia Matossian, MD published several articles and gave multiple presentations on various topics regarding advances in cataract surgery. She was also interviewed by prominent ophthalmic journals on the treatment of ocular allergies.
- Contact lenses … one click away! Order your Contact lenses on line 24/7 at your convenience by going to our website and visiting our Contact Lens page.
- MEA participated in an AMO sponsored clinical study regarding contact lens solutions.
- Our Ewing office will be moving to the new Capital Health Hopewell facility in the Spring of 2012.
- Annual MEA Trenton Thunder game. In July 2011, 70 MEA Docs, staff and family members enjoyed our annual outing. As the Thunder ophthalmologists, we go to support our team.
- In May 2011 MEA staff participated in Capital Health Foundation's healthy beginning initiative for mothers and their newborn children.
- Dr. Jennine Lutz and her husband are expecting their third baby this fall. Dr. Lutz will be out on maternity leave through January 2012.
- Dr. Priya Desai and her husband are enjoying their little princess, Jiya, along with her two older brothers. Dr. Desai is back from maternity leave.
Dr. Matossian and husband enjoy an outing
at the annual MEA Trenton Thunder game 
MEA CapitalHealth Walkathon participants
A Personal Message From Dr. Rozenbaum
There are a lot of positive changes happening at MEA this year! Our Hyde Park office is moving to a larger space. In New Jersey, the changes are even bigger – the Ewing office is moving to a larger space in the new state-of-the-art Capital Health hospital in Hopewell. The surgery center one floor below our soon-to-be Hopewell office will make scheduling and performing surgery more convenient.
In a few short months, I will be leaving for Africa on a 2 week adventure. I am going with a group called Climb For Sight to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. We are raising money for an eye clinic in Guatemala. I am hoping to raise a considerable amount for this wonderful cause.
In September, I attended a glaucoma conference in New York City on glaucoma surgery using the Ex-Press shunt. In October, I gave a glaucoma lecture to Mercer County ophthalmologists.
Dr. Priya Desai, one of our two glaucoma specialists, is now back from maternity leave after having a beautiful baby girl in early June. Later this Fall, another one of our doctors, Dr. Jeanine Lutz, is expecting her third child. Finally, my wife, Miriam and I, are expecting too! It looks like our daughter Hannah, who is starting kindergarten this Fall, is going to have a little sister!
Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season.
Inside MEA's Spring/Summer 2011 Newsletter
MATOSSIAN EYE TO MOVE INTO NEW HYDE PARK SPACE
Early in 2012, our Doylestown office will be moving to a larger, more comfortable space within Hyde Park. MEA will be moving to Suite 501 in Building 5 of Hyde Park, the same office complex but 3 buildings over from our current location. In the new space, we will continue to provide the same caring, friendly service that you have come to cherish with the same highly skilled physicians, advanced technology and leading edge treatment that sets MEA apart -- all in the same convenient and familiar location. While we don't know the exact date of the move yet, we will notify all patients well in advance of the opening date. We look forward to serving you even better in our new location.
Dr. Matossian, her husband and their daughter
enjoyed the 2011 NJBiz Best
Fifty Women in Business Awards Ceremony Cynthia Matossian, MD honored as one of NJ's 50 best women in business
Cynthia Matossian, MD, FACS has been named one of New Jersey's 2011 Best 50 Women in Business. This honors New Jersey's most dynamic women in business that have been making headlines in their field. She was the only physician and the only one in the health care field to be awarded this honor. To qualify, a nominee had to meet selection criteria that included living or working in New Jersey and holding significant authority for decision making in a company. An independent panel of judges selected the top 50 winners based on their dedication to business growth, professional and personal accomplishments, community involvement, and advocacy for women.
ClearKone a new rigid gas permeable contact lens
ClearKone, a new rigid gas permeable contact lens for patients with Keratoconus, is now available at MEA. This unique Contact Lens (CL) is a hybrid design different from other CLs on the market. It consists of a rigid gas permeable center with a soft contact lens skirt to provide better fit & comfort. Shelly Cutler, OD who specializes in hard to fit CLs is one of few certified optometrists in Pennsylvania currently fitting this new lens. Doctors must be certified in the fitting technique before using this CL. Call our office today to obtain more information about this new Contact Lens.
Climb for Sight
Dr. Ilya Rozenbaum is going to Africa! Why? He is going to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, in order to raise money for sight-saving eye surgery for children in Guatemala. Anyone can contribute towards this great cause, no matter what the amount. Your tax-deductible contributions will go to Vision for the Poor, a non-governmental, non-sectarian, non-profit organization. You may even join Dr. Rozenbaum in this climb. Please go to VisionForThePoor.org for more information and click"Donate Now" to contribute.
Jeylan Mansoury, MD New Ocular Cosmetic and Aesthetic Services
MEA is excited to offer new ocular cosmetic and aesthetic services through Jeylan Mansoury, MD with partnership through her Jardin Medical Spa.
The services will include:
- Botox to eliminate lines and wrinkles between the brows, on the forehead and around the eyes (crow's feet)
- Dermal Fillers to plump up smile lines, lips, cheeks, and hollowness under the eyes.
- Chemical Peels to even out skin tone and reduce pore size.
- Fraxel, non-ablative resurfacing laser to even out skin tone and texture to reduce fine lines, pigmentation, age spots, sun damage, melasma, and acne scarring.
- Thermage and Pelleve radio frequency devices to tighten the skin on the face, upper eyelids, jaw areas, and neck.
Please call our office 1-800- 708-8800 if you are interested in any of these services.
Order Contact Lenses on-line
MEA is now offering the convenience of online ordering of your contact lenses. As long as you are an established MEA patient and your prescription is current, you may order your lenses online with a credit card and have them shipped directly to your home. Patients who are already registered on our website may log-in using their username and password. If you are not previously registered, please contact our office at 1-800-708-8800. If you place an in-stock contact lens order before 5 pm EST Monday thru Friday, the order will ship to you on the same day. We accept all major credit cards. We also offer valuable on-line savings so please check our on-line"promotions". Ordering your contacts through MEA has never been easier!
WHAT'S NEW with MEA
Front row: Jennifer Viscusi, OD; Cynthia Matossian, MD;
Rebecca Mueller, OD; Jennine Lutz, OD
Back row: Melissa Richard, OD; Michael Starrels, MD;
Priya Desai; MD; Ilya Rozenbaum, MD
- Along with several staff members, Cynthia Matossian, MD attended a conference in Philadelphia with Florence Henderson (Mrs. Brady) who is the spokesperson for Crystalens, the presbyopia correcting implant to help patients see far, middle and a bit up close after cataract surgery. Please visit our website to see the photo.
- Our MEA website underwent a facelift with several new features to include: a button to adjust font size for our visually impaired patients, the ability to order PRN Omega 3 products on line, and a section that we will use to post messages to you for delayed starts or office closures due to inclement weather. Please check out our new website!
- Cynthia Matossian, MD spoke to a group of Princeton University students who are interested in a career in medicine with an emphasis on work life balance issues.
- Ilya Rozenbaum, MD is speaking to a group of ophthalmologists in central PA on new medications for the treatment of glaucoma.
- Cynthia Matossian, MD continues to lecture throughout the Mid Atlantic region to other ophthalmologists, eye surgeons and optometrists on a variety of topics. She was invited to review the newest edition of the Essentials of Cataract Surgery book as well as contribute to the interna-tional Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery regarding how to manage a complex cataract case.
- Read our weekly blogs, find us on face book and follow us on Twitter
 Help from a New Eye Dropper
Do you have trouble putting drops in your eyes? The Cress Eye Dropper, new on the market, may help you. The eye dropper has a soft arched piece that sits on the bridge of your nose to steady the bottle and to allow you to place the tip of the dropper near the inside corner of your eye. Then squeeze and one drop will be delivered into your eye. The Cress Dropper is available in two sizes -- small and large -- depending on the size of your eye medication bottle. As a convenience for our patients, we are providing these droppers at our offices for $10.00 each.
A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DR. MATOSSIAN
The second brutal winter in a row is well behind us and we can all appreciate the beautiful spring weather and the summer months ahead. I will always remember the February day when ice brought a large tree down across my driveway. We had no power for 30 hours and I could barely get out of my house under downed wires in order to get to surgery!
I recently attended two outstanding conferences on the latest developments in cataract surgery, one in St. Thomas and one in Chicago. These meetings give me an excellent opportunity to share information and experiences with the best physicians around the country. This helps our doctors give you the most current treatment modalities.
Andrea, one of our technicians, and her husband just had a baby girl. We are looking forward to the birth of Dr. Desai and her husband's third child any day now. Dr. Desai will be out over the summer but will be back to the practice in August. We wish her well.
My daughter, Nora, graduated from the Duke Business School this spring and will be starting her first"real" job in Washington DC after Labor Day.I look forward to having her closer to home as she starts her working career! Next year will bring many exciting changes for MEA as we move our PA office into a new space and our Ewing office into the new Capital Health building in Hopewell once it opens. We believe these changes will greatly benefit our patients!
Inside MEA's Fall/Winter 2010 Newsletter
 Decreased Dependence on Spectacles Through Cataract Surgery
Roughly 3.2 million cataract surgeries are performed every year in the US. In a standard Medicare-covered procedure, the cataract is replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL) that restores distance vision only. These IOLs do not address the condition of presbyopia, the age-related inability to focus up close. Therefore, reading glasses are always required. Advanced technology implants address distance, intermediate and near vision correction in one procedure.
ReSTOR, Tecnis Multifcal, & Crystalens are the currently available presbyopia-correcting IOLs. Although there is an out-of-pocket expense associated with these IOLs, they reduce dependence on glasses at all 3 distances.
There is no perfect lens design as each of these 3 implants offers unique advantages and some disadvantages. The selection of an IOL is a mutual decision between the patient and the surgeon and is based on each patient's unique ocular condition(s). New instruments such as the 3DWave available at MEA, allows physicians to custom-select the IOL that will best suit the patient's ocular anatomy. We offer all of these implant options at Matossian Eye.
Water Sports and Contact Lenses
 Swimming and other water sports can be a challenge for contact lens wearers. Chlorine in pools can be quite irritating to the eyes. Since patients need to see well when playing water sports or swimming, simply insisting
that patients not wear their contacts is not an option. If a patient is going to the pool or the beach for the day, one option is to wear daily disposable contact lenses, take them out right before swimming and insert a new pair afterwards. If they need to see well in the water when playing a competitive sport,
prescription goggles are recommended. Not only do prescription goggles provide crisp vision, they also protect the eyes from harmful bacteria in the water while providing a physical protection in competitive sports. It is not recommended to swim in contact lenses.
Eye Injuries in Active Americans
It's all fun and games until someone loses an eye..
 Athletic activities play an important role in staying healthy, but active Americans need to remember to protect their eyes while playing sports. Research done by The Coalition to Prevent Sports Eye Injuries shows that approximately one quarter of the estimated 2.4 million eye injuries that occur in the US each year happen during sports and recreational activities.
Fishing recently surpassed basketball as the leading cause of sports-related eye injuries. Approximately 9% of sports eye injuries are from fishing, and 38% of these injuries involved hooks to the eye.
Additional statistics:
- Approximately 1 in 50 Little League baseball players will require attention for an eye injury
- One in 20 National Basketball Association injuries involves the eye
- The leading cause of eye injury in adult women is from racket sports
- The average football team will experience 4 eye injuries each season
- More than 55% of all eye injuries from soccer occur in 6 to 14 year-olds
Sports-related eye injuries can include painful corneal abrasions, blunt trauma, and penetrating injuries. Severe injuries can result in vision loss and permanent blindness. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), proper protective eyewear can reduce the risk of injury by 90%.
Athletes who incur an eye injury should seek immediate care from their eye doctor.
Matossian Eye Associates has evening and Saturday appointments to accommodate our patients.
A New Treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome: Intraductal Meibomian Gland probing
Dry Eye Syndrome is a chronic problem that is annoying and difficult to improve. Patients use a variety of treatments to help control their dry eye symptoms. Intraductal Meibomian Gland Probing is a new inoffice procedure that has been shown to have excellent results for Dry Eye sufferers.
The healthy tear film that coats our eyes is made up of three layers:
- A mucus layer on the bottom.
- A watery layer in the middle.
- An oily layer on top produced by the meibomian glands (located in the eyelids) to smooth the tear surface and reduce evaporation.
Meibomian Gland Disease is one of the most common causes of dry eye. Traditional therapies (such as warm compresses, lid scrubs and antibiotics) do not always provide consistent results. This new Intraductal Meibomian Gland Probing is performed under topical (no injection) anesthesia. A microscopic disposable stainless steel instrument is used to open the obstructed meibomian glands. It is a quick and comfortable process that immediately provides relief.
We are proud to offer this new technology at Matossian Eye Associates.
Glaucoma Treatment: Drops vs. Laser?
Glaucoma is a potentially blinding disease that can sneak up on people without any warning symptoms. In most cases, glaucoma can be controlled. Patients with glaucoma have the option between eye drops and laser. Even though there are several types of eye drops, all have potential side effects. Since glaucoma is a chronic disease, even minor side effects can become cumulative and impact quality of life. Laser treatment, on the other hand, is a safe and effective procedure, which can be repeated, and does not have the potential side effects of chronic medication.
Patients newly diagnosed with open angle glaucoma are the best candidates for laser treatment. The most common type of laser is called selective laser trabeculoplasty or SLT. The procedure is done in the office, takes just a minute or two, and is essentially pain-free. Studies have shown that SLT is more effective than eye drops in controlling the eye pressure throughout the day. Stable eye pressures are theorized to reduce glau- coma progression. Laser treatment also eliminates common problems such as forgetting to use eye drops when traveling or missing the eye when trying to adminis- ter the drops. Finally, SLT also has an economic benefit of saving money for both the individual and the health care system.
WHAT’S NEW with MEA
Cynthia Matossian, MD has been appointed adjunct clinical assistant professor in the department of ophthalmol- ogy at the School of Medicine, Temple University with the goal of teaching the resident physicians her latest cataract surgery techniques by allowing them to observe her in the office and in surgery.
- Ilya Rozenbaum, MD presented a lecture on"Glaucoma: Medications or Surgery?" at the Health and Wellness Center in June 2010.
- Read our weekly blogs, find us on face book and follow us on Twitter
- Jennine Lutz, OD and Jennifer Viscusi, OD recently attended a seminar on oral medications in optometry.
- Ilya Rozenbaum, MD presented a poster at the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery in Paris in September. Since it was an electronic poster,"Recur- rence of Central Serous Chorioretinopathy following Selective Laser Trabeculoplasy," he did not need to be physically present.
- Cynthia Matossian, MD developed the "Flip and Slice" technique for cataract surgery which was published in the June 25, 2010 issue of Ocular Surgery News. You can watch it on You Tube @ www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGq-zVYlVYY
Women with type-2 diabetes have an increased risk for open angle glaucoma
A recent study found that type-2 diabetes is associated with an increased risk of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) in women. The study involved 76,318 registered Nurses who were observed for 20 years from 1980 to 2000. During that time 429 of the participants devel- oped POAG and of those 30 of them had type-2 diabetes. Based on these results, women with type-2 diabetes had nearly double the risk of developing POAG.
According to the author of the study, it was not surprising to see a strong correlation between type-2 diabetes and POAG because several other studies had also shown a similar association. The author goes on to caution that this particular study predominantly involved Caucasians and the results may or may not be applicable to people of other races. If you have type-2 diabetes, please schedule an eye exam to be evaluated for glaucoma.
A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DR. MATOSSIAN
 What a volatile year we have had: Earthquakes in Haiti & Chile, volcanic eruptions in Iceland and mud slides in Pakistan. Despite it all, we at Matossian Eye strive to provide you with the best possible eye care and to make visiting our practice the most pleasant experience on every encounter.
We now have the technology to email you short educational clips on eye topics relevant to you. The graphics are very accurate & easily explain the disease processes.
Nora graduated from Davidson College this May and has already started business school at Duke University. My husband & I travelled to Norway recently for a hardhat tour of the manufacturing plants that produce omega 3 fish oils for Physician Recommended Neutraceuticals (PRN). I was most impressed by the high quality of the product. We have PRN Omega 3s available in our offices as a convenience for our patients. Have a wonderful holiday season and let’s hope for a calmer 2011.
Inside MEA's Spring/Summer 2010 Newsletter
Enhanced MEA Website
February marked the launching of MEA's updated website. Our primary goal is to present our patients with an accessible forum for all of your eye care needs. A user-friendly format allows our visually impaired patients to navigate the site with minimal difficulty.
With the aid of our website, you can now:
- Read our doctors' biographies
- Request an appointment online at any of our 3 locations
- Know what to expect the day of your appointment by reading through the steps of a comprehensive exam, a specialized test, or a surgical procedure
- Become acquainted with the products and services we offer from contact lenses to emergency care
- Familiarize yourself with common eye conditions through our educational videos and informative web links
- Stay current with our calendar of upcoming MEA events and lectures within our communities. Check weekly for updated blog articles written by our doctors & staff and for testimonials from our wonderful patients.
MEA Gift Certificates
As a service and convenience to you, MEA now has gift certificates available for you to provide to your family members and friends. Give an MEA gift certificate for birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, etc. They can be used for non-insurance covered routine eye exams, premium Intraocular Lens Implants, contact lens fittings or contact lenses. It is a gift
that will truly be appreciated! Request it on line by clicking on the gift icon or call any of our offices.
Matossian Eye Associates is pleased to have LATISSE™ (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03% the first and only FDA-approved prescription treatment for inadequate eyelashes (a condition called hypotrichosis) available for purchase. LATISSE™ grows eyelashes, making them longer, thicker, and darker. Eyelash growth with LATISSE™ is gradual. In the clinical trials, the majority of users saw significant improvement by 2 months. LATISSE™ has been proven to be safe and effective. To learn more, ask one of our doctors if LATISSE™ is right for you!
Omega-3s and Your Eyes: Detecting and Treating the Problems
Omega-3s are a family of essential fatty acids (EFAs) that are anti-inflammatory in nature. The other family of EFAs, the Omega-6s, promote inflammation and blood clotting. The importance of balancing O-3 and O-6 intake is becoming increasingly recognized. The most crucial O-3s are found in cold-water fish. Because the typical Western diet includes more O-6-rich foods, the ratio of O-6 to O-3 is out of balance for most Americans. Current research suggests that this lack of O-3s is the underlying cause of many illnesses, e.g., cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, & ocular inflammations. The best way to even the ratio is to increase your O-3 intake through high quality supplements.
The following eye benefits have been recognized:
- Reduction of inflammation of the lacrimal glands, leading to better tear production and improvement of Dry Eye Syndrome
- Control of chronic eyelid disease (blepharitis)
- Decreased risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Omega-3 supplements have additives such as Vitamin D3 for the ocular surface or Lutein and Zeaxanthin for macular health. Your doctor at Matossian Eye Associates can recommend the best choice for you.
3 D Wave: You Can't Diagnose What You Can't See
MEA now offers the 3D Wave scan. This is the newest technology available to measure your corneal spherical aberration better than ever possible before. As a result, we are able to evaluate your unique vision needs and make better recommendations to help you see more clearly. If you are considering cataract surgery, the 3D Wave will allow us to better match the implant to your eye. This will give you the best fit possible. The 3D Wave technology is above and beyond the standard level of care for cataract surgery and is not available in every ophthalmologist's office. Matossian Eye Associates is pleased to offer the best available care to make our patients' vision as close to perfect as we can.
What's New at MEA
- Priya Desai, MD MBA and Ilya Rozenbaum, MD attended the American Academy of
Ophthalmology’s Glaucoma subspecialty day in San Francisco this Fall.
- Cynthia Matossian, MD recently presented a lecture to the the Temple University Ophthalmology Residents on the latest cataract surgery techniques.
- Clayton Grinage, our practice administrator, and Cheryl Price, our Front Desk supervisor attended a national ophthalmology conference in Boston this April.
- Cynthia Matossian, MD attended the American College of Eye Surgeons meeting in February.
Cynthia Matossian, MD and her husband at the New York Stock Exchange for the Armenian Eye Care Project fund raiser November 2009.
How Diabetes Affects Your Eyes
Diabetes is a disease that affects the body’s ability to produce and/or use insulin in amounts sufficient to control blood sugar levels. A chronic elevation of serum glucose causes damage throughout the body, including the small blood vessels in the eyes.
As a result, you run the risk of developing diabetic retinopathy, where damage occurs to the blood vessels inside the retina on the back of the eye. You are also at an increased risk for developing cataracts (clouding of the lens in the eye), or glaucoma (a disease that results in damage to the optic nerve).
More than 24 million Americans have diabetes and the number is growing, but only half of them get an annual dilated eye exam. 90 percent of vision loss can be prevented. Matossian Eye Associates and the American Academy of Ophthalmology are reminding you that an annual dilated eye exam can help prevent vision loss in people with diabetes. The Academy has launched EyeSmart Eye- Committed, which encourages people to show their support for the importance of an annual diabetic eye exam. The campaign features an interactive digital component, or “widget.” Through this widget, you can actively pledge to get an annual diabetic eye exam or share the pledge and campaign information with friends and family.
Learn more about diabetic eye disease and interact with our widget by visiting www.Matossianeye.com and click on the Eye Problems Link. The widget is located in the “Diabetes and the Eye” section. For each pledge, the Academy will commit another $1 to its diabetic eye health education efforts. This article is reprinted with permission from the American Academy of Ophthalmology's EyeSmart™ campaign
A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DR. MATOSSIAN
It was 23 years ago that I started the practice and it was soon thereafter that we had our daughter, Nora. It is hard to believe that she is graduating from Davidson College mid-May and plans to work for a few years before pursuing a business degree. She has come to love the South and plans to stay there for the time being. We have joined the social networks Facebook and Twitter. At MEA, we believe in keeping up with the latest advances to provide you with the best possible eye care. We also believe by educating our patients about eye health, together we can achieve the best results. What better way to keep people informed? Please become a fan of Matossian Eye Associates on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!
Inside MEA's Fall/Winter 2009 Newsletter
Link Between Sleep Apnea and Glaucoma
There is much speculation about the link between sleep apnea and glaucoma. Sleep apnea is a syndrome that is defined by repeated episodes of airflow obstruction during sleep. It is relatively common, with one study finding it in 4% of women and 2% of men between the ages of 30 and 60 years. Sleep apnea is diagnosed with an overnight study performed in a specialized sleep lab. Glaucoma is an eye disorder that damages the optic nerve (the structure that connects the eye to the brain), and can cause permanent vision loss. Many ophthalmologists are starting to believe that a positive association exists between glaucoma and sleep apnea.
Numerous studies have found a greater proportion of patients with sleep apnea to have glaucoma than in the normal population.The reverse association has also been found, with a greater incidence of sleep apnea among glaucoma patients when compared to the normal population. It is hypothesized that the same mechanism of decreased oxygen in the blood vessels is responsible for both sleep apnea and glaucoma. Sleep apnea has also been associated with other ophthalmic conditions such as floppy eye lid syndrome and keratoconus.
Some ophthalmologists have started to take a brief sleep history in their glaucoma patients. On the flip side, it is important for patients with sleep apnea to alert their eye physician of this diagnosis. This topic is the subject of much research and we hope to have more answers as to the link between sleep apnea and glaucoma in the near future.
Dr. Rozenbaum Lectures in Georgia
Ilya Rozenbaum, MD had the privilege of presenting his review paper on Medical versus Surgical Initial Glaucoma Treatment at the seventh annual Black Sea Ophthalmological Society in Batumi, Georgia recently.This has been a hot topic of discussion for decades, with opinions changing as new medications and surgical techniques become available. Treatment practices differ greatly around the world, with initial surgical treatments much more commonly used outside of the US. The meeting was a two day long international congress of ophthalmologists from many countries including Turkey, India, USA, Russia, Italy, Belgium, Sweden, and others.
Poor Night Vision: Detecting and Treating the Problems
Based on multiple FDA studies, difficulty with night driving is noted among a substantial segment of the population. There are two principal categories for poor night vision: Diseases of the eye Natural effects of aging and other non-disease causes of decreased contrast sensitivity. While poor night vision is most often associated with conditions such as Retinitis pigmentosa, cataracts or advanced glaucoma, there are many other causes of decreased contrast sensitivity with night driving such as:
1. Astigmatism (non-spherical shape of the cornea) which can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.
2. Dry Eye Syndrome with poor tear film which can be treated with artificial tear solutions or ointments, oral Omega 3 fish oil capsules and or Restasis, a medication for Dry Eyes.
3. Chronic blepharitis – inflammation of the eyelid margins which can be treated with lid scrubs and in some cases Azasite, an antibiotic preparation.
4. Vitamin A deficiency, although rare in the USA, can be seen in patients with malabsorption syndromes from intestinal surgery or a history of liver disease.
The most common cause of nighttime driving issues is a cataract. Glare usually precedes changes in vision. Oftentimes, it is the glare and decreased night driving that brings patients in for their initial evaluation. If you are having problems with night driving, please call for an appointment.
Aspheric Implants Predicted to Reduce the Frequency of Car Accidents
At the time of cataract surgery, the cloudy cataract is removed and an intraocular lens implant (IOL) is centered in its place. We are now fortunate to have implants with more advanced aspheric designs. These implants have been shown to improve patients’ functional vision and their visual performance in simulated night driving conditions. According to a study by the Potomac In stitute for Policy Studies, located in Arlington, VA, the enhanced vision of patients who receive aspheric IOLs will result in a decreased rate of car accidents. Moreover, these implants have shown an average 45 foot advantage in terms of braking/stopping sooner which translated as a 0.5 second improvement in response time. How does improved reaction time increase driving safety? According to the Potomac Institute, these aspheric IOLs would result in a 10% reduction in accidents among those who received this lens. The anticipated savings could exceed $1 billion per year with a prevention of more than 70,000 personal injuries annually. Therefore, these aspheric IOLs can have a major impact in improving driver safely and cost to society. At MEA, we evaluate each patient and determine the best implant match in order to help our patients achieve the best possible vision after cataract surgery.
What's New at MEA
- Congratulations to our entire billing staff for successfully completing the American Academy of Ophthalmology and JCAHPO accredited program to become certified Ophthalmic Coding Specialists.
- We now have the latest Optomap software system in our 3 offices with better picture quality & detail capability for non-dilated retinal exams.
- Cynthia Matossian, MD presented a lecture to area physicians on “What’s new with premium implants” this past July.
- Our MEA family continues to grow: Congratulations to Lauren & her husband and to Shauna and her husband for their recent weddings. Congratulations to Erin and Dr. Melissa Richard for upcoming babies and to Yelena who just had a baby boy.
- MEA was selected as one of only a few practices in the USA to participate in a phase III clinical trial for an NSAID eye drop for use after cataract surgery.
- Jennifer Viscusi, OD attended the American Optometric Association's national conference in Washington, DC in June 2009
- Alan Szczesniewski, D.O attended the American Osteopathic College of Ophthalmology meeting in Austin, Texas recently where he took his board recertification exam and passed. Congratulations.
- Jennine Lutz, OD attended a seminar at the NJ Academy of Optometry recently.
Up to 20% of Teenagers Have Sight Problems
A survey of 1,500 participants found more than 1 in 5 teenagers between the ages of 12 and 17 have difficulty seeing the chalkboard, and more than 25% complained of headaches, according to VSP Vision Care (Rancho Cordova, Calif.) and Prevent Blindness America, who jointly sponsored the survey.
Additional findings of the survey showed:
- Almost two-thirds (66%) of children under the age of 6 have never had an eye exam by an eye doctor.
- One in four 6 to 11-year-olds wears prescription glasses.
- The prevalence of common eye conditions, as reported by parents, increases with the child's age.
Prevent Blindness America recommends all children have their vision checked at infancy and regularly throughout childhood. If a child fails a vision screening, or if there is any concern of an eye or vision problem, the child should be referred for a complete eye exam by an eye doctor. We at MEA believe it is important to have a complete eye check-up by age 5 before starting kindergarten. The combination of primary care doctor eye evaluations and vision screenings with a referral for a complete eye exam by an eye doctor is the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus.
A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DR. MATOSSIAN
We have made every effort possible to work with our patients in view of the “down economy” by helping them obtain their medication and enrolling them in pharmaceutical assistance programs. We expanded our evening and Saturday hours to help accommodate our patients who cannot take time off during the typical work day. This April, I attended the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) meeting in San Francisco where I took many courses on the latest advances in cataract surgery. I completed additional courses at the Ocular Surgery News Conference this September in NYC. Multifocal implants for the correction of presbyopia (inability to see near after middle age) and toric implants for the correction of astigmatism are constantly improving to meet the demands of our aging population. Our daughter, Nora, turned 21 this summer. She is back at Davidson College for her senior year. She is considering an MBA degree after graduation. My husband and I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary this year. Enjoy the beautiful Fall weather. Happy Holidays to you and your families.
Inside MEA's Spring/Summer 2009 Newsletter
 Matossian Eye Associates Welcomes Dr. Priya Desai
After graduating cum laude from Cornell University, Priya Desai, M.D. MBA returned to her home state of California to earn her medical degree at the UCLA Medical School and her business degree at the UCLA School of Management. Dr. Desai completed her ophthalmology training and her fellowship in glaucoma at the Jules Stein Eye Institute at UCLA. Dr. Desai,
her husband and her two toddler boys left sunny California to enjoy the four seasons of New Jersey & Pennsylvania. Building their first snowman this winter was one of their highlights! Dr. Priya Desai sees patients in the Ewing and Doylestown offices. She specializes in the medical, laser and surgical treatment of all types of glaucoma as well as comprehensive ophthalmology, including cataract surgery with the latest implant technology. Her special interests include normal tension glaucoma.
 Surgical Correction of Astigmatism
Astigmatism means that the cornea (which is the clear dome over the colored
portion of the eye) is shaped more like a football rather than round like a
basketball. This causes light rays entering the eye to bend, leading to
blurred and distorted vision for both distance and near. Almost everyone
has a small amount of astigmatism; however for some the amount is
significant enough to create visual problems.
Surgical options are now available to help treat astigmatism and
minimize a patient’s dependency on glasses. One of the options is a
Limbal Relaxing Incision (LRI) which is offered by MEA. It involves
creating a small arc shaped incision in the peripheral cornea to
cause a flattening effect. This is performed at the time of your cataract
surgery. MEA is proud to offer an additional surgical approach
for the correction of astigmatism via a toric intraocular lens implant.
The AcrySof® Toric lens implant is placed in the eye after the cataract
is removed. The advantage of this lens is that it can correct astigmatism
at the same time it treats cataracts without the need for a separate
procedure. For more information and educational videos regarding
either procedure please visit our website at www.matossianeye.com.
Surgeon of Excellence with AMO: Cynthia Matossian, MD, FACS
According to David Schaffer, Senior Territory Manager for Abbott Medical Optics, Dr. Matossian performs state of the art cataract surgery and uses the most advanced cataract removal system available today. Her surgical skill and progressive approach have been recognized by the manufacturer. In 2008, she was awarded the distinct honor of being named Surgeon of Excellence. This distinction belongs only to a small number of cataract surgeons across the United States and their charge is to help raise the bar for surgical outcomes. Dr. Matossian will be serving as host and teacher to visiting surgeons who have traveled to observe and learn from her.
 Intraoperative Floppy-Iris Syndrome
Intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) is a condition that alters the muscle tone of the iris (which is the colored portion of the eye.) It was first described by Drs. Chang and Campbell in 2005. The awareness of this syndrome is important because it is associated with a higher rate of complications during cataract surgery, especially if it is not recognized ahead of time.
IFIS is most often associated with the alpha 1 antagonist medication tamsulosin (Flomax) used to treat benign prostatic hypertension (BPH), or an enlarged prostate. However, other alpha antagonist medications such as terazosin (Hytrin), doxazosin (Cardura), and alfuzosin (Uroxatral) can also cause IFIS.
At MEA, we take every measure to minimize risk by using iris hooks or a Malyugin ring to keep the pupil dilated and flat during cataract surgery in our IFIS patients. As such, it is imperative that every patient scheduled for eye surgery convey the list of all medications to MEA.
Office Workers and Dry Eyes
Dry eye syndrome is an annoying and distracting condition. It affects millions of men and women. The list of causes is long and includes certain diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, medications such as anti-histamines for allergies, use of computers for prolonged periods of time, and a dry environment. Most affected are people older than 40. However this appears to be changing now that computers have become part of everyone’s lives both at home and at work.
Recent studies have evaluated the effects of computer use on the eye. The outcomes show that there is a decreased blink rate associated with prolonged visual tasks such as T.V. watching, reading and computer use. The decreased blink rate leads to increased tear evaporation and dry eye symptoms. Office workers who spend more than 4 hours on the computer are typically at a higher risk of dry eye syndrome with gritty, sandy feeling eyes.
Research has demonstrated that dry eyes impact the quality of life for those suffering with this condition. To improve this situation, use artificial tears, add a humidifier to your bedroom, take breaks from the computer by looking away from time to time and ask your eye care physician about adding omega 3 fish oil capsules to your daily dietary intake.
Latisse
Do you want longer, fuller, and darker eyelashes? MEA is proud to offer Latisse™ (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03% from Allergan, the first and only prescription treatment approved by the FDA to grow your lashes.
Latisse™ is applied topically to the base of the upper eyelashes each evening. Patients may start to see the changes in the length, thickness and darkness of their eyelashes starting at 4 weeks with full results after 16 weeks. Latisse is now available at MEA. Please ask us about Latisse™.
What's New at MEA
- Ilya Rozenbaum, MD visited a prominent glaucoma surgeon in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for one week where he observed clinical activities and exchanged ideas about glaucoma research and treatment.
- Phuong Le, OD celebrated his wedding in California this March. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Le and his wife.
- MEA is proud to be a part of World Glaucoma Day designed to raise awareness of glaucoma as a leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide. With two fellowship-trained glaucoma specialists, MEA is on the cutting edge of glaucoma care and is committed to preventing blindness from glaucoma.
- Cynthia Matossian, MD was honored to have her study on the comparison of various glaucoma medications published by Allergan Pharmaceutical.
- MEA is proud to be involved in a clinical trial with Ista pharmaceutical. MEA is one of few sites selected in the USA.
- Our optometrists, Drs. Melissa Richard, Jennine Lutz, and Phuong Le, are certified to fit SynergEyes contact lenses. These specialty lenses are designed for patients with keratoconus or patients who have had prior refractive surgery. Synergize contact lenses provide the optical quality of a gas permeable lens with the comfort of a soft contact lens. A multifocal version exists for those who need distance and near correction in one lens.
- Melissa Richard, OD presented a lecture on treatment options for contact lens discomfort at the Health and Wellness Center in Warrington, PA.
A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DR. MATOSSIAN
Spring is here and I am very happy about that. This February, I attended the American College of Eye Surgeons’ meeting where the latest techniques of cataract surgery and premium implants were discussed. In April, I attended the American College of Cataract and Refractive Surgery meeting in San Francisco. I was invited to give a presentation to a group of ophthalmologists on the subject of premium implants in Bergen County, NJ a few months ago. Many of you know Aliceann, who has been with MEA since 1987. Her husband passed away recently after months of illness. Please join us in conveying our sympathies to her. My husband and I visited our daughter, Nora, who just completed her junior year at Davidson College in NC. She is majoring in Psychology with a concentration in math. She wants to go into business. She turns 21 this summer!
Inside MEA's Fall/Winter 2008 Newsletter
 Matossian Eye Associates Welcomes Dr. Ilya Rozenbaum
Ilya Rozenbaum, M.D. is a summa cum laude graduate of the University of Maryland at College Park and New York University School of Medicine, where he was elected to the medical honor society Alpha Omega Alpha. He received his ophthalmology training at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary in Manhattan. Dr. Rozenbaum, his wife, and 3-year-old daughter just moved to Jenkintown, PA. He is available to see patients in both our Ewing and Doylestown offices. He specializes in the medical and surgical treatment of glaucoma and cataract surgery. Please join us in welcoming him to MEA.
Ilya Rozenbaum, M.D. had the following published recently:
Rozenbaum I, Ritch R. Eye on the Web:
The Faces Behind the Eponyms. Arch Ophthalmol.
2008;126(6):846.
Rozenbaum I, Ritch R. Eye on the Web:
Four Eyed Fish. Arch Ophthalmol.
2008;126(5):733.
(At the time of writing, the following are “In Press”:)
Rozenbaum I, Ritch R. Eye on the Web:
Video Gonioscopy Atlas. Arch Ophthalmol. In Press.
Radcliffe N, Liebmann J, Rozenbaum I, Sbeity Z, Sandler SF, Tello C, Ritch R.
Anatomic Relationships Between Disc Hemorrhage and Parapapillary Atrophy.
American Journal of Ophthalmology, In Press.
Smoking & Your Eyes
The harmful effects of smoking on the body have been known for many years. Some of these effects can be learned by simply reading the warnings on the package. Not only does smoking increase the risk of lung related diseases, certain cancers, heart disease and fetal injury, recent studies have demonstrated that it can also increase the risk of dry eyes, cataracts and even blindness.
In one study, heavy smokers (at least 1 pack/day) experienced a higher rate of dry eye symptoms (foreign-body sensation, burning, stinging) than non-smokers. This appears to be related to damage to the oily layer of the tear film. In another study, heavy smoking appeared to increase the risk of cataract formation 3 times that of non-smokers. Finally, the study that showed an even more alarming association of the effects of smoking on the eye is the risk of blindness. In this study of 222 twins, smokers had a 1.9 times increased risk of macular degeneration which can lead to blindness.
If all previous side effects of smoking were not reason enough to quit, then perhaps the awareness of ocular complications may be a strong argument to stop.
Diabetes & Dry Eyes
Diabetes, if not treated properly, can lead to various health problems including complications with the eyes. In the United States, it is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness in patients under age 65. Many do not realize that diabetes is also associated with cataracts, glaucoma, and according to recent studies, dry eyes.
Dry eye syndrome has many causes such as aging, medications, menopause, the environment, certain disease processes and prolonged visual tasks. In the case for diabetes, decreased corneal sensation is the cause for dry eyes. This decreased sensation interferes with the neural feedback loop from the cornea to the lacrimal gland (main gland of the eye that produces tears) causing decreased tear production. According to some of the studies, the incidence of dry eyes is greater if patients have underlying poor blood sugar control, peripheral neuropathy and advanced diabetic retinopathy.
Diabetic patients already know that they should have an annual dilated eye exam. Now that there is evidence showing a correlation between diabetes and dry eyes, it is that much more important for diabetics to keep their regularly scheduled eye exams. Treatment options for Dry Eyes can help with the annoying gritty sandy sensation caused by this condition.
The Effect of UV Radiation on the Eye
Today the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays on our skin are well known but few are aware of the damage they cause to the eyes. UV radiation can be divided into two components: UVA which has lower energy but penetrates deeper into the eye and UVB which has higher energy and is more damaging. More than 99% of UV is absorbed by the cornea (clear dome over the front part of the eye) with some of the rest reaching the retina.
UV radiation can play a role in the development of various ocular disorders including cataracts, pterygia/pingueculas (growth of tissue on the white portion of the eye that can extend on to the cornea), cancer of the skin around the eye, photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea) and possibly macular degeneration.
Most people would not go out into the sun without putting sunscreen on their skin and the same protective precautions should be applied to the eyes. Recommendations to minimize UV exposure to the eyes include: a brimmed hat or cap and UVA & UVB absorbing sunglasses or other eyewear. These recommendations are for everyone including children.
Matossian Eye Associates Participating Insurance Plans as of Sept 2008
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Aetna
- AmeriHealth – All Products
- Amerihealth Administrators
- Keystone Health Plans
- Independence Administrators
- Independence Blue Cross
- Personal Choice
- Blair Mills Administrators
- American Postal
- Beech Street PPO
- Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield NJ
All Products
- Managed Care (HMO)
- Indemnity
- PPO
- Medicare Blue
- Cigna
- Devon Health Plans PPO
- First Health PPO (formerly The Affordable)
- First MCO
- GHI
- Great West
- Guardian
- Health Net
- Health Assurance
- Highmark
- Humana
- Insurance Administrators of America (IAA)
- Magnet/Magnacare PPO
- Mail Handlers
- Medicare
- Medicare Railroad
- New Jersey Manufacturers
- One Health Plan
- Oxford
- Private Health Care Systems PPO (PHCS)
- QualCare
- Time Insurance Company
- Tricare
- US Family Health Plan (USFHP)
- United Health Care
- Golden Rule
- Well Choice (formerly Empire Blue Cross)
WHAT’S NEW with MEA
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The staff of MEA
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The staff of MEA enjoyed a beautiful evening at a Trenton Thunder baseball game in July. Pictured above is Dr. Matossian with mascots Boomer and Strike. MEA is the official team ophthalmologist for the Trenton Thunder.
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MEA was selected as one of few sites in the US to be involved in a Phase II clinical trial for a new product from Ista Pharmaceutical for Dry eyes.
- Cynthia Matossian, MD gave a presentation on Xibrom, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication used in cataract surgery, in NYC, to a group of ophthalmologists in June 08.
- MEA is honored to be selected as one of few sites in the US to be involved with an Allergan Combigan glaucoma trial which is currently underway.
- Cynthia Matossian, MD was invited to be a speaker to a group of ophthalmologists in Lehigh Valley on Crystalens, the advanced technology cataract implant with its paired use with Xibrom.
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A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DR. MATOSSIAN
It was a wonderful summer, especially the surprisingly mild weather we had in August. I love the warm weather and am already dreading the cold winter months ahead. My daughter has been in Australia most of the summer. She is learning to surf; she went skydiving at 14,000 feet – if you can believe it! She even sent me a video of her jump. Currently, she is in the middle of her Fall semester at Bond University not far from Sydney. My husband and I have finalized our plans to visit her next month. We are all looking forward to it! Nora will return to Davidson College in North Carolina for the second half of her junior year after the holidays.The course I attended in NYC earlier this month focused on the most up to date techniques in cataract surgery and the use of advanced technology implant lenses such as the Crystalens and ReZoom to help you see far, intermediate and near. I would be happy to answer any of your questions regarding these implants and together we can determine if you are a candidate.Enjoy the upcoming holiday season and, as always, I am wishing for a mild winter!
Inside MEA's Spring/Summer 2008 Newsletter
Accommodating IOL for Cataract Surgery
Accommodating IOL for Cataract Surgery Matossian Eye Associates (MEA) is pleased to offer the Crystalens® which is the first and only FDA approved accommodating intraocular lens (IOL) implant for the treatment of cataracts. This second generation accommodating intraocular lens is unlike a standard implant because it not only treats your cataract but also helps treat presbyopia (the age related inability to read up close without reading glasses). The unique design of the Crystalens® uses the eyemuscles to flex and help focus on objects at distance, midrange (computer distance) and up close for reading. The Crystalens® will reduce your dependency on glasses for most activities such as driving a car, working on the computer, or reading.
Eye Screenings at Age Forty
The movement in healthcare is toward early detection and treatment of diseases. In keeping with this trend, the American Academy of Ophthalmology now recommends that adults with no signs or risk factors for eye disease get a baseline eye exam at age 40. Early signs of eye disease and changes in vision may begin around 40. If an eye condition is detected early, then appropriate treatment can be initiated to minimize the risk of blindness. If you are 40 or older and have not had your eyes checked recently, please call for an appointment. Evening and Saturday hours are available.
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Matossian Eye Associates Welcomes
Dr. Melissa Richard
Matossian Eye Associates is happy to announce a new addition to our team, Melissa Richard, O.D. She is a graduate of the University of Delaware and the Pennsylvania College of Optometry. Dr. Richard and her husband just moved to Doylestown, PA. She is available to see patients primarily in our Doylestown office. She provides comprehensive eye exams and fits contact lenses of all types. Please join us in welcoming her to MEA.
Screening Family Members for Glaucoma
 Glaucoma is a disease of the eye that can gradually lead to blindness. Unfortunately, many patients are unaware that they have glaucoma. There are no associated signs until it is too late. Early detection is crucial.
Risk factors for developing glaucoma are:
- Positive family history of glaucoma
- Diabetes
- Steroid use (oral, inhaled, topical, or drops)
- African-American race
First-degree relatives have 5 times greater chance of developing glaucoma, according to a study by Dr. S. Fabian Lerner. When Dr. Lerner screened 61 first-degree relatives of 35 glaucoma patients, he noted that 26.2% of the relatives had glaucoma. This compared to a screening of patients with no known family history of glaucoma, where only 6% were diagnosed with glaucoma. Early glaucoma detection and treatment is essential. If you have glaucoma, please encourage your relatives – brothers and sisters, sons and daughters – to be checked for glaucoma. Please call our office for an appointment soon.
Air Travel Exacerbates Dry Eye Symptoms
Dry eye patients tend to be happiest during the summer months due to higher humidity (more moisture in the air) associated with warmer temperatures. Unfortunately, the atmosphere inside airplanes is rather dry. Studies have shown the relatively low humidity on a plane causes increased tear evaporation. The average humidity in aircraft cabins can range from 9% to 28% and the lower the humidity the higher the rate of tear evaporation. So dry eye patients take heart, the summer months will soon be here bringing higher humidity. However, if you have any air travel scheduled, be sure to drink lots of water and bring your artificial tears for use during the flight.
All Eyes on the Family
Lions Clubs International has partnered with Allergan Inc. (a pharmaceutical company) to create a national educational program called “All Eyes on the Family” for glaucoma patients and their caregivers.
A recent study demonstrated that glaucoma patients were aware of their disease but not necessarily the severity of its consequences. The patients' caregivers were undereducated about glaucoma, its treatments and the risk of developing the disease themselves as relatives of an individual with glaucoma.
The goal of “All Eyes on the Family” is for both caregivers and glaucoma patients to be better educated and to seek proper care for their disease. Some of the resources available through the program include answers to frequently asked questions, information about common treatments, and strategies for helping family members cope with glaucoma.
WHAT’S NEW with MEA
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MEA staff has fun bowling.
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MEA doctors and staff attended the annual Vision Expo on Saturday, April 12 at the Jacob Javits Center in NYC to learn about the latest options in contact lenses and eye testing equipment.
- Cynthia Matossian, MD was invited to be a consulting participant at an ophthalmology meeting in Miami this February.
- MEA doctors and staff went bowling in March for some fun & time together outside the office.
- Clayton Grinage, COE, Practice Administrator, attended the ASCRS (American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery) annual conference
in Chicago this April. He took multiple courses on practice management.
- Alan Szczesniewski, DO attended a conference for continuing education in Scottsdale, Arizona in May.
- In January, Joan Micucci, COMT presented a talk on THE AGING EYE to a group of senior citizens.
Mascara Recall
More than 12,500 tubes of mascara were removed from the market because they contained the same ingredient (bimatoprost) that is used in a glaucoma medication called Lumigan® (manufactured by Allergan). Lumigan ophthalmic drops have been used for years to treat glaucoma. One of the side effects of Lumigan is eyelash growth.
This was seen as a great opportunity by the cosmetic company (Jan Marini Skin Research) to provide customers with longer eye lashes. The mascara was marketed under the name" Age Intervention Eyelash" and actually contained the same medication as the glaucoma drop. This was an off-label and unapproved use for a potent glaucoma drug.
According to Allergan, patients using Lumigan as well as this mascara product could have increased risk of optic nerve damage because the added medication could decrease the effectiveness of prescribed glaucoma drops. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) agreed with Allergan and removed the mascara
from the market.
Dietary Supplements Aid Dry Eye
Eye doctors have begun to realize the benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids on ocular health, specifically dry eyes. For years, the treatment for dry eyes consisted of artificial tears, a temporizing treatment for most patients. However, through research we have discovered the role inflammation plays on the lacrimal gland (tear producing gland), meibomian glands (oil producing glands), and the eye surface. This inflammation causes these glands to malfunction, leading to and aggravating dry eyes.
Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation. Oily fish such as salmon and sardines are some of the richest sources for O3s. Increased consumption of Omega-3 fatty acids can inhibit the production of inflammatory molecules and can have a protective function.
The current recommendation for dry eye patients is to increase consumption of Omega-3 fatty acids through food and supplements. It may take months for the ocular benefits to become noticeable. O3s also benefit the joints and cardiovascular system.
If you have any questions regarding O3s, please call us or ask us at your next visit. If you are on any medication, consult your primary doctor before taking any supplements to prevent possible interactions.
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A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DR. MATOSSIAN
The two snowstorms this winter reminded me of how much I really like the Spring. As always, there are lots of good things happening at MEA. Dr. Lutz and her husband just had a healthy baby girl named Hayley. Congratulations to them – it's their second daughter!
Joan Micucci, COMT, supervisor of our ophthalmic technicians, and Clayton Grinage, COE attended a conference in Baltimore on patient education with 3D Eye animation programs. Please ask about our new Eyemagination programs in the office.
Nora is finishing her sophomore year at Davidson College in North Carolina. She has decided to major in math and psychology with an eye toward business in the future. She plans to spend the fall semester of her junior year in Australia as part of her college study abroad program. So my husband and I decided to meet her"down under" in November to celebrate Thanksgiving together. I continue to take classes in oenology (study of wine). I have completed 4 courses and am in the middle of my 5th course on wines from Spain.
Enjoy the Spring and Summer!
Inside MEA's Fall/Winter 2007 Newsletter
Check Out Our Revised Website @ matossianeye.com
Top left to right: Drs. Frank Lee, Victor Chin, Jennifer Viscusi, Jennine Lutz, Robin Antonacci, Benjamin Rowe, Bottom Left to right: Drs. Alan Szczesniewski,
Cynthia Matossian and Michael StarrelsPlease log on and check us out! We have updates on our physicians, photos, and insurance plans. If you have not had the opportunity to evaluate the new Eyemaginations software in our offices, you will be able to experience it online. Matossian Eye Associates (MEA) is excited to offer you this new patient education technology. You will enjoy the detailed animations, the colorful illustrations, and easy-to-understand explanations in 3D format about the eye and its various disorders. Read the notes and compliments patients have given us over the years under the section “patient letters”. Follow our commitment to our local communities through our ac calendar. We strive to provide our patients with the best quality eye care.
 Best 50 Women in Business in PA
Last Spring, Governor Ed Rendell and five business journals announced the winners of the 12th annual Pennsylvania’s Best 50 Women in Business awards. Cynthia Matossian, MD, founder and owner of Matossian Eye Associates, was named as an honoree. An independent panel of judges selected the top 50 candidates based on dedication to business growth, professional and personal accomplishments, community involvement, and advocacy for women in business. Dr. Matossian was the only physician and medical practice selected. The Pennsylvania Department of Economic Development honored the fifty women business leaders at an awards reception at the Governor’s mansion on May 21, 2007.
Contact Lens Solutions and Eye Infections
A recent increase in corneal infections has been linked to ReNu® with MoistureLoc® (Bausch & Lomb) and Complete® MoisturePlus™ (AMO) contact lens cleaning solutions. Unfortunately, these eye infections caused by fungi or parasites can be very serious and may lead to blindness. A nationwide recall of both products has been implemented.
It is important to understand that with contact lens wear comes great responsibility. The risk of infection can be reduced with proper contact lens wear and hygiene. The steps you can take to minimize potential problems include:
- avoid wearing your contact lenses longer than necessary
- do not sleep in your contact lenses
- adhere to the recommended replacement schedule
- clean and sterilize your contacts daily with the recommended solution
- rub the contacts between your fingers for daily cleaning
- do not mix and match contact lens cleaning products
- keep your contact lens case clean and refill with fresh solution daily
Please contact us if you have any questions about your contact lenses or their proper care.
Ocular Injuries: BB & Pellet Guns and Paint Balls
Eye injuries related to BB, pellet and paintball guns are of grave concern in the United States. Though overall BB and pellet gun injuries have declined over the years, paintball injuries are on the rise. The devastating consequences from BBs, pellets, and paintballs demand awareness. These injuries range from mild to severe with permanent vision loss or blindness and, in rare cases, even death. BB and pellet injuries accounted for 32.8% of the overall total eye injuries in 1992 but trended down to 18.3% in 1999 as per the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS). A 2004 study that appeared in the Journal of Pediatrics noted that paintball eye injuries increased from 519 in 1999 to greater than 1200 in 2000. The American Academy of Ophthalmology has also reported that sports-related eye injuries are the leading cause of preventable blindness in children. The best ways to prevent injuries when engaging in these activities are to maintain adequate adult supervision and for people of all ages to use appropriate protective eyewear. Remember, you only come with one set of eyes!
Matossian Eye Selected for Nationwide Glaucoma Research
Matossian Eye Associates has been selected as one of 7 multi-center sites throughout the United States for a glaucoma study. We feel honored to be participating in this important investigation focused on glaucoma. The data will be analyzed within one to two years and we will share our findings with you.
 Steroids:Glaucoma and Cataracts
Prolonged use of steroids can cause cataracts and glaucoma. These side effects may be seen with any form of steroid preparation including oral pills, topical eye drops/ointments, skin preparations, inhalers, and nasal sprays. Two recent studies have corroborated these findings. Christina M. Bui, M.D., et al (Vanderbilt Eye Institute) noted that discontinuation of nasal steroids in glaucoma patients resulted in a significant intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction. From this observation, the authors concluded that nasal steroids need to be used with caution in patients who have glaucoma. P. Ernst, M.D. and colleagues (McGill University Health Center) found that among the elderly even low doses of inhaled steroids for airway diseases (asthma, emphysema, COPD, chronic bronchitis, etc.) can be associated with a small but significant risk of cataracts. At Matossian Eye Associates, we feel that any patient who is on steroid therapy should have a comprehensive eye exam to evaluate for potential side affects.
WHAT’S NEW with MEA
- Clayton Grinage, our Practice Administrator, passed the Certified Ophthalmic Executives exam. The COE is a standard measure of achievement in ophthalmic practice management. There are only about 200 COE certified administrators within the USA. Congratulations!
- Victor Chin, MD passed the written part of the national ophthalmology boards. Congratulations!
- Frank Lee, MD passed the oral part of the national exams and is now fully certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. Congratulations!
- Benjamin Rowe, OD is lecturing on dry eyes in Doylestown, PA.
- Jennine Lutz, OD is lecturing on dry eyes in Hamilton, NJ.
- 6 staff members attended a conference in NYC on multifocal intraocular lens implants in September.
- Dr. Matossian attended a course on cataract surgery updates in NYC in October.
- Drs. Alan Szczesniewski and Cynthia Matossian are attending the American Academy of Ophthalmology annual conference in New Orleans this November.
- MEA is scheduled to perform multiple glaucoma and vision screening events throughout our NJ and PA communities over the next few months. This is our way of giving back and helping those we can reach.
A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DR. MATOSSIAN
The MEA family continues to grow. Mike Starrels, MD became a grandparent recently as each of his 2 daughters had babies. Dr. Szczesniewski and his wife had their second child, Alex, in August. Dr. Rowe and his wife are expecting their second child in the fall. Dr. Lutz and her husband are expecting baby # two around St. Patrick’s Day. Dr. Lee got married in September. Congratulations to all for these wonderful events!Dr. Starrels and his wife traveled to Peru and Machu Pichu last Spring. Dr. Chin along with friends went to Peru as well this past August. My husband and I spent one week on Monhegan Island 10 miles off the coast of Maine in July with no cars and no cell phones. We found it very relaxing. Nora has returned to Davidson College for her sophomore year. She plans to continue rowing crew and fulfilling her core college requirements. She was a camp counselor this past summer at the sports camp that my husband’s grandfather started 103 years ago. Have a wonderful Fall and the enjoy the coming holiday seasons!
Inside MEA's Spring/Summer 2007 Newsletter
20 Years at MEA
In June of 1987, I purchased the ophthalmology portion of the Eyes, Ears, Nose and Throat practice of Drs. Arthur and Erwin Sacks-Wilner in Ewing, NJ. We had one exam room, one ophthalmic assistant, (Aliceann, who is still with us), and one receptionist. With your continued support, we have grown. Thank you for all of your gestures of kindness: the wonderful baked goods you continue to bring to our offices, the homegrown tomatoes and cucumbers, the chocolates, and all of your compliments in notes and cards. In turn, we give back to our community by performing vision screenings at schools, hospitals, and homeless shelters. We give talks to many groups from nursing homes to local chapters of national organizations. All of our physicians and staff at MEA stay current with the latest medical and surgical techniques in order to provide you with the most current treatment options. We also try to educate our patients about eye care. We strive to treat every one of you in the best way we know how. Here’s to another 20 years!
Glaucoma Risk Calculator
Glaucoma is a disease of the optic nerve – the cable that connects the back of the eye to the brain. If left untreated, it can gradually lead to blindness. Instead of full blown glaucoma, some people have ocular hypertension or high eye pressure. This categorizes them as a glaucoma suspect. The process of determining which glaucoma suspects go on to develop glaucoma and when to initiate treatment is not always straightforward. A newly created Glaucoma Risk Calculator helps quantify the probability of progression over time. This calculator, developed by Steven L. Mansberger, MD., MPH, assesses the 5 year risk of progression from ocular hypertension to glaucoma. A well known multi-center eye study called The Ocular Hypertension Treatment Study stressed the importance of risk assessment and the corresponding initiation of treatment. The doctors at Matossian Eye Associates integrate this tool with additional testing methods to personalize the risk of progression from glaucoma suspect to glaucoma. If you have any family members with glaucoma, your risk for this disease is increased. Please call our office for an appointment to have your glaucoma risk assessed.
New Car Headlights and Night Driving Problems
If you have ever complained about the glare and brightness of the new car headlights, you are not alone. So many drivers have been bothered by these blue-tinted headlights that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has conducted studies to investigate the complaints.
Studies have shown that drivers tend to fixate on the new headlights longer than on
conventional ones. The blue color may attract driver’s eyes more or the driver’s eyes may be more sensitive to the blue light. Based on his research, Martin A. Mainster, MD, PhD, vice chairman of Ophthalmology at Kansas University, feels that older drivers have more difficulties with the new headlights due to their brightness and not necessarily due to the blue color. Patients with pre-existing cataracts may be more bothered by these lights. For some drivers, these lights may pose an increased risk of accidents.
Steps have been taken to minimize a driver’s exposure to the direct view of these new blue lights. However, based on continued complaints to the NHTSA, it appears more needs to be done. At MEA, we now have the Functional Vision Analyzer, that simulates night driving with oncoming headlights. If you wish to have your vision checked under these “real road-like” conditions, please call our office for an appointment.
Contact lenses and Dry Eyes: What to do?
Contact lenses exacerbate the sensation of dry eyes. Longtime contact lens wearers have had to discontinue their lenses due to a sandy or gritty feeling in their eyes made worse by their contacts. The cause of these symptoms is thought to be a combination of mechanical disruption of the natural tear film, increased tear evaporation, and underlying disease.
Stabilization of the lipid layer, the outer most layer of the tear film, is important in minimizing dry eye disease. This lipid layer stabilizes the tears by preventing evaporation. Without the lipid layer, the cornea would dry out.
To improve the quality of lens wear, be attentive to:
- Proper fit & appropriate choice of lens material
- Diligent & correct lens care
- Adherence to recommended replacement schedule
- Minimize lens wearing time to give the cornea a healthy break
- Use of the new lipid restorative lubricating drops before insertion and after removal of contacts
Dry eye patients and contact lenses do not always go well together. However, with properly fitting and maintained lenses, the addition of the lipid stabilizing lubricating drops may enable you to better tolerate your contact lenses.
Menopause and Dry Eyes
There are more than 35 million US women in perimenopause and greater than 45 million women who have reached menopause. Unfortunately, many women experience a host of unpleasant symptoms during this time of their lives. A frequently overlooked consequence of menopause is dry eyes.
Red Hot Mamas (the nation’s largest menopause management education program) conducted a study that showed out of a sample of 582 perimenopausal women, 94% had dry eye symptoms. Many women either do not correlate their dry eye symptoms with menopause or simply attribute them to the natural aging process, leaving a fair number of women under treated.
With increased awareness about menopause and its affect on women, emphasis is being placed on better coordination of care between the gynecologist, the primary care doctor, and the eye care professional. The goal is for more menopausal women to get the appropriate treatment for their ocular symptoms.
Risks of Eye Disease Increased by Obesity
Obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the US. Almost 130 million adult Americans are overweight or obese. According to the Centers for Disease Control, this places them at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, some types of cancers, and disabilities.
Recent research has shown that obesity also increases the risk for blinding eye diseases. Studies have revealed links between obesity and progression of macular degeneration, cataract formation, retinopathy, and glaucoma. The increased risk is related to the presence of obesityrelated systemic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension or directly related to a high body mass index (BMI).
Macular degeneration progression was more than double for patients who had higher body mass indices, according to research conducted by Johanna M. Seddon, M.D. ScM, Ophthalmologist and director of Epidemiology at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. Cataract formation was more common in obese patients with hypertension and cardiovascular disease, as outlined in a study by Christine Younan, M.D. University of Sydney. Hendrik A. Van Leiden, M.D., at the University Medical Center in Amsterdam, noted retinopathy was associated with increased abdominal obesity, hyperglycemia, and hypertension. Lastly, two studies from Asia established a correlation between an increased BMI and elevated intraocular pressure which could lead to glaucoma.
Hopefully, more attention to obesity and its associated risks may motivate some patients to improve their eating and exercising habits.
WHAT’S NEW with MEA
- MEA Practice Administrator, Clayton Grinage, will be taking an exam in San Diego during the American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators annual meeting to become one of only 200 nationwide Certified Ophthalmic Executives. This is the highest level credential that an Ophthalmology Practice Administrator can achieve. We all wish Clayton the best of luck!
- Jennine Lutz, OD and Jennifer Viscusi, OD took a 30 hour Continuation Education course called 2007 Credentialing for Oral Pharmaceuticals in New Jersey. They also took an 8 hour CPR course for the Professional Rescuer.
- Ophthalmic technicians Joan, Cathy, Debra, and Betsy attended the Wills Eye Annual Conference on cataract surgery in Philadelphia this March.
- Ben Rowe, OD is scheduled to speak on Dry Eye Syndrome at the Health and Wellness Center (PA) on Wednesday, May 2nd at 6:00 PM. Please call Aliceann at 609-323-1560 Option 4 to sign up.
- Almost the entire MEA staff attended the Vision Expo conference in New York City on March 24th at the Jacob Javitz Center.
- Kristina completed her certification as an ophthalmic assistant in late 2006. Congratulations!
- Cynthia Matossian, MD and Benjamin Rowe, OD are official preceptors for Pennsylvania College of Optometry interns.
- Megan and Kristina, ophthalmic assistants, attended an A-scan course. This ultrasound procedure helps in the calculation of the implant power required for cataract surgery.
A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DR. MATOSSIAN
Lots of good things are happening at MEA. My daughter is about to complete her
Freshman year at Davidson College outside of Charlotte, NC. She absolutely loves it. She is concentrating on math yet completing all the requirements. She is spending hours on Lake Norman practicing for crew. Their team has done very well throughout the Southeastern region.
Dr. Szczesniewski and his wife are expecting their second baby. Dr. Viscusi and her husband just had their 2nd child. Dr. Viscusi will be on maternity leave for 4 months. We have interim optometrists in Ewing and Hyde Park covering for her.
My husband and I will be traveling to France this spring to visit friends and family. My Mom had some heart problems early last winter. She is doing well and is back on the road to recovery. Thank you for all of your well wishes and concerns. Enjoy the glorious spring weather.
Inside MEA's Fall/Winter 2006 Newsletter
Michael Starrels, MD & Doylestown Eye Associates have joined Matossian Eye Associates
This fall, Michael Starrels, MD and his practice of Doylestown Eye Associates have become a part of Matossian Eye Associates. We are proud to welcome Dr. Starrels aboard. As an honored member of Doylestown Hospital and its dedicated medical community, Dr. Starrels has been in private practice for 27 years. Dr. Starrels completed his residency in ophthalmology at Wills Eye Hospital, one of the country’s highest regarded training centers.
Dr. Starrels is continuing to see patients in the Bailiwick office of Matossian Eye Associates. Appointments can be made with Dr. Starrels by calling 215-345-8142 as before. With this partnership, we reinforce our commitment to provide you with the finest eye care available in the area.
Glaucoma and compliance
 Many studies have shown that compliance with glaucoma medications is very poor, especially if there are several different bottles involved. In other words, we are all human and either forget or ignore our prescribed glaucoma drops. To boost compliance, doctors need to know how individual patients use their drops and what prompts them to miss doses, such as travel or weekend activities. The Travatan Dosing Aid (TDA) is the first tool that makes it easier for patients to use their eye drops. The TDA makes it more comfortable to hold and squeeze the bottle without wasting the expensive medication. The TDA also acts as a monitoring system alerting the patient that it is time to use the drops. The TDA records the time and date when the drops are used. By plugging the TDA into the computer at each office visit, the drop utilization history is printed. We are proud to announce that MEA was selected as 1 out of 500 study sites across the US for the
TDA. This new technology will help us better understand your pressure patterns at each office visit and thereby individualize your anti-glaucoma therapy.
Higher risk of multiple falls among elderly women with decreased vision
 A recent study by Coleman et al. has linked a decrease in vision with an increased incidence of falls in women 65 years or older. This study involved 2,002 women. Those who had lost 10 letters or more of visual acuity during a 5 year period were associated with 43%greater odds of frequent falls than their counterparts who either had no decrease in their vision or those who had improvement in their vision through cataract surgery. The authors conclude that in an effort to prevent falls, older individuals should be referred to ophthalmology in order to ensure best corrected visual acuity. The latest technology in intraocular implants for the correction of vision loss from cataracts is available at Matossian Eye Associates. The Tecnis implant with its wave front designed surface is the only implant approved by the FDA for improved contrast sensitivity. This feature not only helps reduce falls but it also helps reduce accidents while driving by enabling a person to react 0.5 seconds sooner at dusk going 55 MPH. The ReZoom multifocal implant with its 5 concentric zones allows patients to see both at distance, intermediate and near 92% of the time without spectacles. Please call our office if you are interested in being evaluated for cataracts.
Day Care Centers a source for indoor allergens
Day care centers are an important source of exposure to items such as animal dander, dust mites, fungi, and mouse allergens, which can cause allergies in infants and toddlers. Most of these microscopic findings were detected in the carpets at the facilities. According to a press release from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, 97% of day care centers tested positive for dog and cat allergens although animals were not permitted in most of the facilities. Carpeted surfaces had significantly higher levels of allergens indicating that carpets act as a reservoir. Symptoms of itchy, red, and watery eyes in kids attending day care centers may be a sign of an allergy.
Mandatory protective eyewear for sports
The State of NJ law # 2091 effective July 2006 requires anyone who wears corrective eyeglasses while participating in racquetball, squash, tennis, women’s lacrosse, basketball, women’s field hockey, badminton, paddleball, baseball, softball, or volleyball sponsored by a school, community, or governmental agency to wear protective eyewear that meet specified frame and lens standards. Every 13 minutes a person in the United States goes to the emergency room because of a sports related eye injury. New Jersey is the first state to mandate sports protective eyewear in an effort to decrease the needless loss of sight that occurs while playing sports.
Eye pressure and Yoga
 There was a consistent 2-fold increase in the intraocular pressure (IOP) during Sirsasana (Headstand posture) in Yoga practitioners. The asanas (postures) are part of a form of yoga called postural yoga, practiced since the 2nd century AD in India and now in many parts of the world. At least 7.5% of Americans and 7% - 48% of Europeans practice some form of yoga as either a form of well being or an alternative form of therapy for chronic illnesses. This pressure elevation was maintained during the posture in all age groups. There was no correlation between major risk factors for glaucoma such as age or optic nerve cup size with the magnitude of IOP increase owing to habitual Sirsasana. The prevalence of ocular hypertension among yoga practitioners was not higher than that of the normal population. Based on these findings, this study from Ophthalmology August 2006, a publication of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, found no evidence to rule out glaucoma in young subjects practicing Sirsasana; older subjects at higher risk of glaucoma should undergo routine eye evaluation.
WHAT’S NEW with MEA
- Victor Chin, MD has started at MEA. Dr. Chin graduated from Princeton University, attended Mt. Sinai School of Medicine in NY, and completed his ophthalmology residency at Tufts’ New England Eye Center in Boston. His focus is eyelid surgery.
- Congratulations to Kristina Farley for passing her national certification test as an ophthalmic assistant. She is now a certified ophthalmic assistant, COA.
- Joan Micucci, COMT and Dr. Matossian will be attending the American Academy of Ophthalmology annual meeting in Las Vegas next month. Both will be taking many courses.
- Alan Szczesniewski, D.O. is attending the American Osteopathic College of Ophthalmology Midyear Seminar in Philadelphia this Fall.
- All of the staff at MEA just renewed its CPR training. We are proud to let you know that everyone is certified.
- Congratulations to Jenny Kauffman for passing her exam & becoming a certified ophthalmic coding specialist. She also just had her second child, a son named Jalen.
- Cynthia Matossian, MD attended a recent conference on refractive cataract surgery in NYC to acquire the latest techniques for spectacle independence by using multifocal implants for improved distance, intermediate, and near vision.
A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DR. MATOSSIAN
Our daughter, Nora, started her Freshman year at Davidson College just outside Charlotte, N.C. Davidson was her first choice. Ranked 10th in the country for small liberal arts colleges by US News and World Report, I am sure she will be appropriately challenged. She is very happy, with an initial interest in math as her major. My husband and I are getting used to the “empty nest syndrome.” We plan to travel when time permits. Our next trip is to California for a visit to one of the pharmaceutical companies so I can better understand their research and development strategies.
Our MEA family continues to grow. Dr. Rowe’s son and Dr. Lutz’s daughter are growing beautifully; Dr. Viscusi and her husband are expecting their second child this spring.
Our Hamilton office will be open 5 days per week Monday through Friday with 2 evening sessions on Tuesdays and Wednesdays starting October 2006. Please let us know if you would like your chart transferred from our Ewing office to Hamilton. Wishing you a healthy Fall and upcoming holiday season.
Inside MEA's Spring/Summer 2006 Newsletter
 New Contact Lenses for the Dry Eye
Although millions of new patients try contact lenses each year, an equal number of patients give up lens wear. Most of the patients who drop out of contact lenses do so because of discomfort. Often, this discomfort is described as a sensation of “dryness” that gets worse as the day wears on. Several types of materials have been suggested as optimal choices for the dry eye patient. These include high and low water content soft lenses as well as silicone hydrogel materials. In addition to traditional hydrogels, several contact lens brands are specifically designed for dryness. What sets the silicone hydrogel contact lenses apart from others is their ability to transfer high amounts of oxygen through the contact lens material to the cornea. Some studies suggest that getting more oxygen to the cornea translates into more comfort. While added oxygen may contribute to comfort, it is clearly not the whole story.
Attention to contact lens cleaning systems must be paid. Cleaners and disinfectants from different brands cannot be mixed since they can cause a subtle chemical reaction leading to mild irritation. This, in turn, can be mistakenly interpreted as “dryness” by the patient. Please adhere to the specific cleaning system that your Contact Lens specialist has recommended for you.
Over-wearing contact lenses can also cause a sensation of “dryness”. Researchers have found that corneal infiltrates or ulcers occur eight t i m e s more frequently in extended wear patients. Sleeping in your contact lenses increases your risk of corneal infections. Systemic medications such as anti-histamines or allergy medication can cause dryness of mucous membranes, which becomes more noticeable in the contact lens wearer.
Even though end-of-day dryness and discomfort are not medically serious conditions, they are more than an inconvenience. It is important, therefore, to be using the most appropriate contact lens for you. Please contact our office to be fitted with the special contact lens that is just right for you.
Glaucoma screening for siblings of glaucoma patients
Siblings of glaucoma patients have an increased risk of developing glaucoma, and the risk increases with age, according to a study by British researchers. Between 1994 and 2003, a group of siblings of open-angle glaucoma patients underwent extensive ophthalmic examinations.
At the initial evaluation, 12% of the siblings were classified as glaucoma and 5.5% were classified as glaucoma suspects. In the follow up study, an additional 7% of the “normal” siblings were classified as glaucoma and 20% as glaucoma suspects. Researchers noted increasing prevalence of glaucoma among
siblings with age. The lifetime risk is estimated at approximately 20% by age 70. If you have glaucoma or are diagnosed as a glaucoma suspect, please urge your siblings to have their eyes checked.
 Soccer Eye Injuries are a Global Concern
Severe ocular injuries can be sustained on the soccer field according to an analysis of soccer-related eye injuries at the São João Hospital in Portugal. The worldwide popularity of soccer makes the risk of injury a public health issue. Researchers found that many of the injuries involved the lids and the front part of the eye resulting from blunt trauma from the ball. Because of the force and impact angle of the ball, bleeding inside the eye as well as retinal injuries were quite common. Most injuries occurred around the goalpost. More injuries occurred in indoor soccer compared to outdoor soccer. The need for protective eyewear in soccer has remained far less clear than for other sports such as hockey or racket sports. Though protective eyewear is not mandatory, researchers recommend adequate eyewear for soccer players of all levels that conform to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standard guidelines.
New Sutureless Corneal Transplant Surgery
2005 marked the 100 year anniversary of the first successful organ transplant. In 1905, Dr. Eduard Zirm, in what is now the Czech Republic, transplanted a cornea into a patient who had been blinded by an industrial accident. Since that time, advances in instruments, medications, and eye banking have dramatically increased the success of such operations, but the basic surgical technique has remained the same - until now. Over the last century, the premise of the surgery has been to replace the entire central cornea with a new donor cornea. However, scientists have long realized that many corneal diseases are caused by a malfunction of only a very thin layer of corneal tissue. Recently, techniques have been developed to allow replacement of only the diseased layers of cornea, allowing the normal layers to remain. Selective surgery such as this allows for sutureless surgery with much faster healing time, less visual aberrations, and lower risk of wound problems. Dr. Gerald Rosen is one of few cornea specialists who is trained in this new surgery, and is proud to offer this advance in corneal transplant surgery to our patients.
Eating Tuna & Walnuts Could Prevent Dry Eyes
Dry Eye syndrome in post-menopausal women is very common and may be linked to their intake of dietary fat, according to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Consuming foods rich in omega-3 such as tuna may reduce dry eye risk by 68% according to a recent study at the Brigham & Women’s Hospital and the Schepens Eye Research Institute both in Boston. B. Miljanovic, MD analyzed data from more than 37,000 women. “We found that a high intake of omega- 3 fatty acids, often referred to as a ‘good’ fat commonly found in tuna and walnuts, is associated with a protective effect. Conversely, a higher ratio of omega-6, a fat found in many cooking and salad oils and animal meats, increased the risk of dry eye syndrome,” Dr. Miljanovic wrote in the report. In conclusion, women with the highest levels of dietary intake of omega-3 reduced their risk of dry eye syndrome by 20%, compared to women with lower levels of omega-3 in their diets. Other kinds of fish that contain lower levels of omega-3 did not seem to help protect against dry eye syndrome.
Insurance plans and referrals:
We value our relationship with you and the fact that you have selected Matossian Eye Associates (MEA) as your eye health care provider. Health care coverage has changed, especially for a specialty like Ophthalmology. We deal not only with hundreds of different insurance plans and their variations, but also with stringent requirements regarding visits that must be categorized as either medical or routine vision care.
It is your obligation to know your insurance plan, what it covers and does not cover, and what authorization for treatment is required. It is not fair to expect us to figure out for you what your plan requirements are. If you are not familiar with your eye care benefits, please call the customer service number on the back of your insurance card. Thank you for your consideration and cooperation. We are pleased to serve you and care for your vision.
Congress approves legislation to ban decorative contact lenses from over-the-counter sale
The risk of vision-threatening infections is increased when individuals purchase cosmetic contact lenses over the counter instead of visiting an eye care professional. Until recently, decorative contact lenses were available at some beauty parlors, T-shirt shops, delis, and gas stations. Contact lenses require precision fitting and extensive care instructions. Decorative contact lenses purchased from non-licensed vendors were not accompanied by proper instructions or fit. The rate of vision threatening infections was on the rise. This led Congress to pass a ban on these contacts. If you have any decorative contact lenses, please discard them immediately. They may be very harmful to your eyes.
Smoking and the risk of macular degeneration
There is evidence that smoking is a risk factor for age related macular degeneration (AMD). A British study compared current and former smokers and non-smoking patients and determined that smoking was a risk factor for AMD. Researchers found a strong association between AMD and pack-years of cigarette smoking, the odds ratio increasing with the amount smoked. Stopping smoking was associated with reduced odds of AMD and the risk in those who had not smoked for more than 20 years was comparable to those of non-smokers. The risk profile was also similar for men and women. Passive smoking exposure was associated with an increased risk of AMD in non-smokers. The authors believe that the results provide a causal relation between smoking and AMD.
WHAT’S NEW with MEA
- Several staff members along with Cynthia Matossian, MD attended
Vision Expo at the Javitz Center in NYC in April.
- Nina Yepez, MD attended the annual Academy of Ophthalmology and Retina sub-specialty day conferences in Chicago this October. She also attended a recent conference at Wills Eye Hospital: Changing Innovations in the treatment of macular degeneration.
- All MEA staff and physicians were recently certified in CPR.
- Cynthia Matossian, MD attended a two day glaucoma conference as well as the complex cataract surgery symposium at Wills Eye Hospital this winter.
- Megan and Kristina, two of our ophthalmic assistants, attended a cornea course at Scheie Eye Institute. Cathy and Kristina attended a B-scan and A-scan course in Philadelphia.
- Robert Cherewich, Practice Administrator, attended a conference in March sponsored by the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) addressing Practice Performance. He also attended the American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators (ASOA) Conference this spring focusing on practice management.
- Gerald Rosen, MD has been promoted to"Assistant Surgeon" rank at Wills Eye Hospital.
- Joan Micucci, COMT, supervisor of our ophthalmic assistants, attended a comprehensive course in Plymouth Meeting, PA on technician skills.
- Cynthia Matossian, MD was selected as one of “America’s Top Ophthalmologists – 2006” by the Consumers’ Research Council of America. She is among a select few who have earned this prestigious recognition.
A PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DR. MATOSSIAN
We were blessed with a mild winter and little inconvenience due to snow. But it was a very busy season in the baby department for Matossian Eye Associates. Dr. Lutz & her husband had a girl at the end of October; Sue, our receptionist in Doylestown, gave birth to her honeymoon baby, a boy in February; and Dr. Rowe’s wife is expecting their baby any minute now. All are back to work at MEA. Jenny, of our billing department, is due to deliver her second child in June. Congratulations to all! My daughter, Nora is finishing her senior year in high school. She is rowing crew this spring. She is trying to decide which college to attend this fall. Her choices are all small liberal arts schools in the south. It amazes me that she was born at the beginning of my second year in practice! That means MEA will be celebrating its 19th birthday this June, just before Nora turns 18.
We are delighted that Frank Lee, MD, will be joining us in July after he completes his fellowship in glaucoma at the Scheie Eye Institute in Philadelphia. Please join me in welcoming him to our community. I love the spring and summer seasons, especially the warm weather. I hope all of you will enjoy it, too!
Inside MEA's Fall/Winter 2005 Newsletter
VIAGRA AND VISION LOSS
 Recent news reports have implicated Viagra with potential loss of vision from non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION).
NAION is the most common acute optic nerve disease in adults over 50. Although the exact etiology of NAION is unknown, many of its risk factors are similar to those of erectile dysfunction, such as ischemic heart disease, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, smoking, and increased age. Vision loss due to NAION is believed to be caused by a reduction of blood flow to the optic nerve. Most affected patients describe a sudden onset of decreased vision in one eye. The degree of visual loss can vary and, and in most cases, does not include complete blindness. Usually, the visual loss is permanent and there is an increased lifetime risk of having the second eye involved.
The phenomenon of blue-tinged vision experienced by a small percentage of men in the Viagra clinical trials was found to be a temporary side effect with no long-term consequences to vision. The effects of Viagra on ocular blood have been assessed in a number of studies some of which were funded by independent research grants. Data from these studies have consistently demonstrated that Viagra shows a positive to neutral effect on blood flow in the eye.
Pfizer, the manufacturer of Viagra, has completed a comprehensive review of its clinical data base to better understand any relationship between Viagra and NAION. Based on this review, Pfizer states that men taking Viagra are no more likely to develop serious vision-related adverse events including NAION than men of similar age and health who do not take Viagra. They feel there is no causal link between Viagra and loss of vision.
More independent long term studies are required to better understand any potential association between visual impairment and Viagra.
Inhaled Steroids increase risk of Cataracts and Glaucoma
Higher dose and longer use of inhaled steroids increase the risk of glaucoma and cataract formation, according to the results published in a recent issue of the British Journal of Ophthalmology. The risk of developing these problems rose not only with increased dose but with prolonged treatment. The authors emphasize that using the lowest effective steroid dose for asthma symptoms can decrease the risk of cataracts and glaucoma.
ReZoom: A new multifocal Intra-ocular lens implant now available
 The ReZoom Intraocular lens (IOL) is a new second generation multifocal IOL that lets certain cataract patients resume their lives with a full range of vision. This new implant distributes light over five optic zones similar to its predecessor called Array. There is a large distance dominant central zone for distance viewing in bright light conditions as well as a distance dominant 3rd and 5th concentric zones. The remaining zones are for near and intermediate vision.
Patient selection is key for this implant. Adults need to be farsighted and have very little astigmatism. For those patients who meet the criteria, the ReZoom IOL can provide independence from spectacles in most situations. According to the manufacturer, 92% of patients with the ReZoom IOL seldom need to wear glasses to see distance, intermediate, or near. If you are interested in this new technology, please call our office and ask for an appointment with Dr. Matossian.
Ocular Complications of Weight Reduction Surgery
Bariatric Surgery, commonly referred to as gastric bypass surgery, is a treatment option for obesity in the United States that is gaining popularity. The dramatic rise in bariatric procedures is reflected in the rise of morbid obesity in our country. Because of the anatomic alterations and dietary changes resulting from this surgery, concern for adequate vitamin absorption with the potential for vitamin deficiency, including decreased Vitamin A, is a real worry.
Vitamin A is one of the essential vitamins that must be acquired through the diet. Deficiency in Vitamin A could result in malnutrition, malabsorption syndromes, or a breakdown of ocular metabolism. A recent report found the prevalence of Vitamin A deficiency at 54% for patients 1 year after gastric bypass surgery and 69% for patients 4 years after surgery.
Vitamin A plays a key role in maintaining the health of the ocular surface. This fat-soluble vitamin is needed to keep the conjunctiva, the cornea, and the retinal pigment epithelial cells viable. With prolonged vitamin A deficiency, the cornea and the conjunctiva can become extremely dry with a dull, leathery, and scarred appearance. In extreme cases, this could lead to blindness.
Although obesity is a disease that needs aggressive treatment, the serious threat of vision loss must be considered. Adequate vitamin supplementation can prevent ocular complications in many cases.
Tinted Contact Lenses serve to give Athletes a Competitive Edge
A performance enhancing contact lens scheduled to hit the market soon allows the wearer to see an object, such as a ball, with greater clarity than with the naked eye, according to the manufacturer of the lens.
The Nike Maxisight lens, developed by Bausch & Lomb, uses “Light Architecture” to selectively filter specific wavelengths of light to enhance key visual elementswhile reducing glare.
A gray-green tinted lens was designed for sports played in bright sunlight, such as golf, football, running, and rugby. An amber-tinted lens was designed for fast-moving ball sports, such as soccer, tennis, baseball, and softball.
If you are interested in these new contact lenses, please call our office and ask for an appointment with Drs. Rowe, Lutz, or Viscusi, who specialize in contact lenses.
Retinal Hemorrhages–No Two Are Alike
One of the more serious conditions that can be detected on an eye exam is blood on the retina. These hemorrhages can be symptom free or cause significant blurred or blocked vision.
Basically, blood on the retina is not normal. The three most common reasons for retinal hemorrhages include: diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. These conditions block the circulation of the tiny retinal arteries and veins leading to bleeding. In medical terms, they are referred to as retinal vascular occlusions. Additional causes of retinal hemorrhages can be eye trauma or age related changes in the vitreous jelly that tug on adjacent retinal blood vessels precipitating a hemorrhage. For persons 65 and older, another important cause is the growth of abnormal fragile blood vessels behind the macula, the central portion of the retina responsible for detailed vision. This blinding condition is commonly known as “wet” macular degeneration.
There is a whole host of other less common causes of retinal hemorrhages. These not only include infections & blood disorders but also side effects from medications and radiation treatments. Did you know that even pregnancy and pancreatitis can lead to retinal hemorrhages? Depending on the patient’s medical history, appropriate tests will be ordered at the time of your eye appointment.
As you can see, keeping your eye physician informed of your updated medical history and medications, along with undergoing a complete exam of the front and back of your eyes can be critical not only for the future health of your eyes but also for your entire body.
WHAT’S NEW!
Matossian Eye Associates was selected as one of 500 practices nationwide to participate in an upcoming “smart” glaucoma medication dispensing device trial to ensure better patient compliance.
Cynthia Matossian, MD attended the Advanced Techniques and Technology Cataract Surgery Symposium at Bausch & Lomb University in May in New York City.
Nina Yepez, MD was interviewed on WZBN Mercer 25 NJ Capital News Station,"WZBN En Espanol" Spanish Cable Show - - - How to maintain eye health and common eye diseases.
Jennifer Viscusi, OD just attended the OptoEast Conference where she completed courses focused on"Eyecare of the pregnant patient" and"New developments in contact lenses for keratoconus."
Cynthia Matossian, MD will be attending the American Academy of Ophthalmology meeting in Chicago mid-October.
Nina Yepez, MD attended a Johns Hopkins University sponsored conference called"Current Concepts in Retina" in early July in Montana.
Jennine Lutz, OD will be holding a seminar on the newest treatment options for Dry Eye Syndrome in our Hamilton office complex on Wednesday, October 19th, 6:30 to 8:00 pm. Please call Aliceann at 609-323-1560if you wish to register for this no charge seminar.
PERSONAL MESSAGE FROM DR. MATOSSIAN
The summer flew by. It is back to school for Nora to begin her senior year in high school. She is busy playing varsity tennis and completing those “dreaded” college applications. She wants to go to a small liberal arts school in the south.
As a family, we went to Florence and Venice this June. We all had a terrific time in Italy despite the swarming tourists (like us) everywhere.
Our office staff family continues to expand; we are planning 3 baby showers for winter babies. With our new Argon and Yag lasers, we have expanded the availability for laser procedures in all 3 offices. Our Optomap units for non-dilated digital fundus imaging are interconnected between our offices for your convenience.
Enjoy the lovely fall weather and the upcoming holidays.
Spring/Summer 2005 Newsletter
MEA OPENS HAMILTON OFFICE
 Matossian Eye Associates recently opened its new office in Hamilton, New Jersey. This office is in the beautiful state of the art medical building developed by Capital Health Systems. The 46,000 square foot medical mall features an ambulatory surgical center, diagnostic radiology, a medical laboratory, and multiple primary care and specialists offices in the heart of Hamilton. All of these services are provided to patients and family in a welcoming environment featuring lots of natural light, ornamental and healing gardens. The new complex is located at 1445 Whitehorse Mercerville Road. Our office is in Suite 106. The phone number is 609-890-0772. Please call now for an appointment.
The opening of MEA's new office in Hamilton will not affect our existing offices in Ewing and Doylestown. These two offices will remain open and will continue with the current patient schedules.
Smoking: the universal risk factor
Smoking is not only a cause of heart and lung disease, it is also a trigger for the development of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Although the exact mechanisms of damage are not known, it is thought that smoking may increase the number of free radicals in the blood molecules that are capable of corroding tissue in the macula and lens said Lylas Mygk, MD, chairwoman of the Visual Rehabilitation Committee for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. The risk of disease may depend on how much a person has smoked and for how long. This risk may be reduced by smoking cessation but not brought down to zero. Another article by Tomay et al in Ophthalmology, the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, showed pooled data to support that smoking is related to an increased risk of AMD. Current smokers were at higher risk of AMD than both past smokers and those who never smoked.
Fluorescein Angiography-- What's That?
Fluorescein ('flor-is-seen') angiography, which is better known as"the dye test," is the most common test performed by retinal specialists to help diagnose, treat, and manage retinal disease.
This in-office test should not be confused with the iodinebased tests like CT scans or MRIs people have performed in hospitals. Fluorescein is a vegetablebased dye that has been used in ophthalmology for more than 100 years. It was not until 1955, however, that this dye was first used as an intravenous injection to help identify key structures in the back anatomy of the eye. Four years later, in 1959, two medical students experimented with this dye and developed a technique of injecting the dye into the large vein of the arm in concert with rapid sequence photography of the eye. The fluorescein dye has special properties that allow it to"illuminate" in the retinal tissue when photographed by a camera equipped with special lens filters.
The photos obtained by this test enable the ophthalmologist to determine if a patient has normal blood flow or damage occurring to the blood vessels or to the retina. It is only through extensive training that the physician can develop the knowledge and expertise to interpret angiogram results accurately.
Fluorescein angiography is an essential test for evaluating conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, blockage of retinal circulation, macular pucker, and various inflammations of the retina. Fluorescein angiograms can often detect subtle problems that the examination with the naked eye alone cannot pick up. Thus, this test is a critical tool that helps retinal specialists monitor and track the stability or deterioration of various retinal conditions, similar to the way glaucoma specialists use visual field testing in patients with glaucoma.
These test results are then used to plan the course of treatment. For example, the angiogram assists the retinologist in determining the exact location of a laser application on the retina. In other words, the angiogram acts as a retinal"map."
In summary, although fluorescein angiography can never replace the keen eye of the ophthalmologist, it can clearly give the retinal physician a tremendous amount of information that ultimately benefits the management and care of the patient with retinal problems. If you have any retinal or macular conditions, please call our office to make an appointment with Dr. Yepez now.
 Physician neckties may harbor bacteria, spread disease.
Neckties worn by doctors were eight times more likely to harbor pathogens than were those of hospital workers not normally in contact with patients, according to a new study. Ties become contaminated when they come into contact with patients' bed sheets. Authors suggest tie tacks to hold ties to shirts, switching to bow ties, or abandoning them altogether. American Academy of Ophthalmology, Academy Express Vol. 3, No. 18 June 2004.
Prevalence of Diabetic Retinopathy among U.S. Adults
Approximately 4.1 million U.S. adults 40 years and older have diabetic retinopathy, and one of every 12 people with diabetes in this age group had advanced, vision-threatening retinopathy, according to the Eye Disease Prevalence Research Group. Among an estimated 10.2 million Americans 40 years and older known to have diabetes mellitus, the estimated crude prevalence rates for retinopathy were 40.3 % and for vision threatening retinopathy were 8.2%. Future projections suggest that diabetic retinopathy will increase as a public health problem both with aging of the U.S. population and increasing prevalence of Diabetes over time. Review of Ophthalmology Volume 4 Number 18 May 2004.
Principles leading to contact lenses date to 15th Century
Contact lenses as we know them today began in the late 1940s with the introduction of the corneal contact lens although larger sclero-corneal contact lenses were first used in the late 1880s. Even though use of contact lenses is approximately 120 years old, the basic concepts date back to the 15th century with the classic writings of Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519). Many technological advances have been made in contact lenses over the past few years with better fitting multifocal and bifocal designs. If you are interested in contact lenses, please call our office and request an appointment with one of our 2 contact lens specialists, Ben Rowe, OD and Jennine Lutz, OD.
Computer Vision Syndrome
Surveys show that 14% of well eye exams uncover vision problems associated with computers. The most frequent symptoms include eyestrain, blurred vision, dry & irritated eyes, tired eyes and headaches. Neck and backaches can also be related to the way patients use their eyes at the computer or to the type of spectacles they wear. Physicians at Matossian Eye Associates are committed to helping our patients who suffer from Computer Vision Syndrome.
Prospective Study of Intake of Fruits, Vegetables, Vitamins, and Carotenoids and Risk of Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD).
A total of 464 cases of early AMD and 316 cases of neovascular (wet) AMD all with visual loss of 20/30 or worse due primarily to AMD were examined. Fruit intake was inversely associated with the risk of wet AMD. Participants who consumed 3 or more servings per day of fruits had less of a pooled relative risk compared with those who consumed less than 1.5 servings per day. The results were similar in women and men. However, intakes of vegetables, antioxidant vitamins, or carotenoids were not strongly related to either early or neovascular AMD. Archives of Ophthalmology vol 122 June 2004.
Nina Yepez, MD attended an update on the management of Diabetic Retinopathy in NYC recently.
Cynthia Matossian, MD was recognized as an EyeCare America Volunteer for 2004.
Jennine Lutz, OD took courses, and several staff members attended Vision Expo East in NYC in March.
Gerald Rosen, MD attended the World Cornea Congress in Washington, DC in April.
Cynthia Matossian, MD along with Joan Micucci, COMT (supervisor of the ophthalmic assistants at MEA) and Robert Cherewich, COE, practice administrator for MEA, attended the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery Society meeting in Washington, DC. in April 2005.
Ben Rowe, OD attended a recent conference on Ocular injuries and Trauma in the greater Philadelphia area.
Gerald Rosen, MD has been certified to perform VISX CustomVue myopic LASIK treatment for nearsightedness and was just certified to perform VISX CustomVue hyperopic LASIK treatment for farsightedness which was recently approved in Dec. 2004.
Betsy Leary and Vinka Monaco attended a 3 day comprehensive course for ophthalmology assistants at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
A Personal Message From Dr. Matossian:
It feels really good to finally have warm weather again. It sure seemed like winter would never end.
It's been a period of wonderful growth for Matossian Eye Associates. Over the last six months, we have welcomed Nina Yepez, MD (retina) to the practice. We just opened our third office in Hamilton, NJ. This spring, we have two staff weddings and four staff members are expecting mothers about to give birth as you read this newsletter. We extend our congratulations to these women and look forward to them continuing with us at MEA.
My husband, my mother and I recently traveled to Argentina to visit relatives that I had never met. It was a great trip. My daughter, Nora, is now driving and about to finish her junior year in high school. She is playing varsity lacrosse and enjoys it a great deal. Since she was away at spring lacrosse training with her school, she could not accompany us to Argentina. She will be a counselor at a girls sports camp in upstate Pennsylvania this summer.
I wish all of you a healthy and enjoyable summer.
Fall/Winter 2004 Newsletter
MATOSSIAN EYE ASSCOCIATES WELCOMES NEW PHYSICIANS
 Robin Antonacci, MD, is now part of the Matossian Eye Associates team. Dr. Antonacci specializes in comprehensive and diagnostic ophthalmology and the surgical treatment of eyelid disorders. She is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. Dr. Antonacci is a graduate of Georgetown University, where she also completed medical school and her residency in ophthalmology. Dr. Antonacci brings to MEA excellent experience from her private practice work in Massachusetts and Princeton prior to joining Matossian Eye Associates.
Dr. Antonacci is a resident of Hopewell Township, NJ where she lives with her husband and their three young children.
 Retina specialist Maria Cristina Yepez, MD joined the staff of Matossian Eye Associates this fall. A board certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Yepez specializes in the medical and surgical treatment of retinal diseases including diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and the repair of retinal tears, holes and detachments.
A cum laude graduate from Rutgers College, Dr. Yepez received her medical degree from the University of Medicine & Dentistry of NJ. She then completed her residency in ophthalmology at Hahnemann Hospital in Philadelphia, PA and a fellowship in medical and surgical retina from the renowned Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD. Dr. Yepez has been a co-investigator in retinal clinical trials for major pharmaceutical and biotech companies and has published five papers in peer-reviewed journals. She is a member of the American Society of Retina Specialists and the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
A native of Ecuador who grew up in New Jersey, Dr. Yepez is fluent in Spanish. She lives in Hopewell, New Jersey with her husband and two children.
Dr. Matossian Certified by the American Board of Eye Surgery
 Cynthia Matossian, MD was recently awarded certification in cataract with implant surgery by the American Board of Eye Surgery. The certification program was established to identify those ophthalmic surgeons who maintain the highest standards of eye surgery as measured by their peers. Dr. Matossian is one of only 250 ophthalmic surgeons nationwide and 14 in the New York / Philadelphia area who have earned the ABES award of excellence.
Dr. Matossian was required to submit a detailed record of 50 consecutive cataract with implant procedures so that examiners could assess her competence in the type of surgery performed, frequency of surgical complications, and visual outcomes achieved. The examiners then observed and videotaped three consecutive surgical procedures for presentation to a board of surgeons for evaluation.
Many patients ask us "What can I do to help control my glaucoma?"
The most important thing you can do if you have glaucoma is take your medications exactly as prescribed and have regular eye examination. In addition, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and eating nutritious foods may be helpful in the prevention of visual loss from glaucoma.
 Exercise
Getting regular exercise is a component of maintaining good overall health. There is some preliminary evidence that regular aerobic exercise and strength training may help reduce eye pressure, a significant risk factor for glaucoma. In addition, regular exercise can improve blood flow to the entire body including the retina and the optic nerve. Some studies indicate that patients Page 3 who had sedentary life-styles and then began a regular exercise routine (20 minutes of aerobic exercise at least three times a week for 3 months) were able to reduce their eye pressure by 10 to 20 %. However, once you stop exercising, the effect wears off.
You should not stop taking your glaucoma medications. Glaucoma patients should not undertake activities in which they stand on their head or turn their body upside down such as yoga, scuba diving, or bungee jumping because this has been shown to elevate eye pressure. Also, some forms of glaucoma are unresponsive to exercise, such as angle closure glaucoma. In addition, patients with pigment dispersion syndrome or pigmentary glaucoma run a risk of increasing eye pressure from bouncing-type or high-impact exercises.
Diet
Although no conclusive studies have shown a link between glaucoma and diet, eating healthily is the best way to ensure your body receives the proper nutrients it needs to function well. Some of the vitamins and minerals that may contribute to overall eye health include antioxidant vitamins A, C, E and minerals zinc, copper and selenium.
WHAT'S NEW!
Robert Cherewich, MEA Practice Administrator, passed the written exam for certification by the American College of Medical Practice Administrators.
Drs. Antonacci and Matossian attended a lecture in Philadelphia on Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), the newest laser technique for the treatment of glaucoma.
Drs. Lutz and Rowe were guests on Living with Glaucoma the Big Talk radio health show in August. They discussed issues relating to glasses and contact lenses.
Dr. Matossian attended two seminars in New York City on the latest techniques of cataract surgery and the newest treatment modalities for glaucoma.
The Optomap laser retina imaging technology is now available in our Hyde Park, PA office. Ask about it during your next visit.
A Personal Message From Dr. Matossian:
It feels really good to finally have warm weather again. It sure seemed like winter would never end.
It's been a period of wonderful growth for Matossian Eye Associates. Over the last six months, we have welcomed Nina Yepez, MD (retina) to the practice. We just opened our third office in Hamilton, NJ. This spring, we have two staff weddings and four staff members are expecting mothers about to give birth as you read this newsletter. We extend our congratulations to these women and look forward to them continuing with us at MEA.
My husband, my mother and I recently traveled to Argentina to visit relatives that I had never met. It was a great trip. My daughter, Nora, is now driving and about to finish her junior year in high school. She is playing varsity lacrosse and enjoys it a great deal. Since she was away at spring lacrosse training with her school, she could not accompany us to Argentina. She will be a counselor at a girls sports camp in upstate Pennsylvania this summer.
I wish all of you a healthy and enjoyable summer.
Spring/Summer 2004 Newsletter
WHAT IS LOW VISION?
Low vision is a condition in which vision cannot be improved with regular glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. One in five older Americans, about 7.3 million people age 65 and older, report some form of vision impairment. Patients with low vision could have a loss of central or peripheral vision. Low vision can be caused by diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diabetes. Many visually impaired people can have difficulty with everyday tasks such as reading, writing, shopping, or watching television. Having low vision does not mean that your quality of life should suffer. There are many ways to help maximize the remaining sight. Through vision rehabilitation with a low vision specialist you can learn new ways and techniques to assist you with your daily activities. This can be as simple as changing the lighting in your house or more complex such as the use of telescopes. There are many low vision devices available to assist you in your tasks. Magnifiers of different strengths and sizes may help you with your near vision. Stand magnifiers are available for those with weaker or shaky hands. These can also be equipped with lights.
Special magnifying glasses that are much stronger than your regular glasses can also be prescribed to enhance reading. These are just some of the ways to make living with low vision easier. We want to help you so your quality of life does not suffer. Please call today to set up your low vision evaluation with Jennine Lutz, O.D.
 JENNINE LUTZ, O.D.
Jennine Lutz, O.D. joined Matossian Eye Associates in January. Dr. Lutz received her undergraduate degree from Penn State University and then attended the Pennsylvania College of Optometry in Philadelphia. Her training included rotations at the Philadelphia Eye Institute and the Northeastern Eye Institute, where she focused on primary and pediatric eye care. She specializes in the fitting of all types of contact lenses including toric (for astigmatism), gas permeable, and bifocal varieties. She is a member of the American Optometric Association and the New Jersey Optometric Association. Currently, Dr. Lutz performs complete eye exams, contact lens fittings and low vision evaluations. She is married. Dr. Lutz enjoys biking, aerobics and relaxing at the beach. Please join us in welcoming Dr. Lutz to MEA.
OPTOMAP AT MATOSSIAN EYE ASSOCIATES
Optomap at Matossian Eye Associates. Rapid imaging of the retina, the lining in the back of the eye, is becoming increasingly important in the detection and documentation of eye disease. Examination methods to date requiring pupil dilation pose burdens for the patient since s/he must wait 20 to 30 minutes before the evaluation and the near vision remains blurred for 4 to 6 hours thereafter. The Optomap is a revolutionary scanning laser imaging system that requires no dilation in most patients. The Optomap exam is quickly performed with absolutely no pain. Seconds later, an ultra widefield image is transferred to the computer screen in the exam room where the doctor can review and discuss the findings with the patient. Optomap can be used in two different situations: a) in the detection and documentation of sight threatening problems such as macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy. This is viewed as a medically necessary procedure and is billed to the patient's insurance as a fundus photo or b) in lieu of dilation when there is no pathology. Since this is optional for the patient and not medically necessary, there is a minimal out-of-pocket charge. Optomap decreases the overall examination time since there is no wait for the dilation drops to work and there is no residual blurred vision after the exam. The patient may leave the eye exam, feel safe to drive and return to work without any visual consequences. Matossian Eye Associates is proud to present this new state of the art technology in its Ewing office.
Human ophthalmology vs. Animal Ophthalmology:
Only in America
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PROCEDURE
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ANIMAL
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HUMAN
|
| Cost of Cataract Surgery |
Approx. $800 / Eye |
Approx. $700 / Eye |
| Implanting an Artificial Lens |
Approx $300 |
Included in Above Surgery Fee |
| Post Operative Visits |
Only 1st at No Charge
Subsequent Ones with Charge |
No Charge for The 90 Day Global Period |
| Payment |
Cash or Credit Card at Time of SX |
Bill to Insurance, Wait 30-120 days for Payment. |
| Malpractice |
Not Likely |
More Likely |
STRONG BUT TASTY MEDICINE
In a study published last summer in the Journal of the American Medical Association, researchers found that dark chocolate may lower blood pressure in people with mild hypertension. In a separate study, reported in the August issue of Nature, researchers found that dark chocolate increased levels of antioxidants. According to the Age Related Macular Degeneration study, antioxidants are thought to slow down the progression of certain types of macular degeneration. Neither white nor milk chocolate produced the same effect.
PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR FOR YOUNG ATHLETES
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HIGH RISK
|
MODRISK
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LOW RISK
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EYE SAFE
|
Small, Fast Projectiles
Air rifle
BB gun
Paintball
Hard Projectiles, Sticks, Close Contact
Basketball
Baseball/softball Cricket
Lacrosse (men's and women's)
Hockey (field and ice)
Squash Racquetball
Fencing
Intentional injury
Boxing
Full contact martial arts |
Tennis
Badminton
Soccer
Volleyball
Water Polo
Football
Fishing
Golf |
Swimming
Diving
Skiing (Snow and Water)
Noncontact martial arts
Wrestling
Bicycling |
Track and field
Gymnastics |
More than 42,000 sports and recreation-related eye injuries were reported in the year 2000. 72% of the injuries occurred in individuals younger than 25. 43% occurred in athletes younger than 15. Adolescents may be particularly susceptible to injuries because of their aggressive play, lack of athletic maturity, or poor supervision in some recreational situations. The eye-injury risk of a sport is proportional to the chance of the eye being impacted with sufficient energy to cause injury. Please refer to the table above. Make sure that your young athlete has the proper protective eyewear to avoid a serious eye injury.
WHAT'S NEW!
Drs. Matossian, Rowe, and Lutz accompanied 11 MEA staff members attending Vision Expo in NYC at the Jacob Javitz Center in March. Everyone learned a lot by seeing the latest in contact lenses and vision testing equipment.
Contact lens options at MEA have been expanded and the turn-around time for lens orders has been expedited through a new service.
Ben Rowe, OD was selected by the Consumer's Research Council of America as one of America's Top Optometrists. Congratulations Dr. Rowe!!
Robert Cherewich, our Practice Administrator, recently attended the annual meeting for the American Society of Ophthalmic Administrators in San Diego.
Cynthia Matossian, MD received a certificate of appreciation for serving as an EyeCare America 2003 Volunteer.
Seven of our ophthalmic assistants participated in a course on the HRT II (Heidelberg Retinal Tomography) in the greater Philadelphia area. This test is used to assess the optic nerve for glaucoma.
Two of our ophthalmic assistants will be attending a comprehensive 2 day course on updates in ophthalmology in Atlantic City next month.
A Personal Message From Dr. Matossian:
So many wonderful things are happening at MEA. I am delighted to share with you that an ophthalmologist will be joining MEA this Fall. Nina Yepez, MD is a fellowship trained Retina specialist.
Some of you have had the opportunity to meet Jennine Lutz, OD, an optometrist who joined MEA in January. Her areas of specialty are contact lenses (like Dr. Rowe) and low vision. Please join me in congratulating Ben Rowe, OD on his June wedding!
It was an honor to be invited recently to participate in two radio show interviews in Bucks County and one in New Jersey. I enjoyed answering the questions from our attentive listening audience. I have really enjoyed the opportunity to lecture on a wide variety of eye related topics these past few months. Maybe some of you had the chance to attend those lectures.
Nora will be turning 16 this summer. Can you believe it? She cannot wait to get her permit to drive. She is busy with lacrosse, tennis, and her schoolwork.
Enjoy the beautiful warm weather this spring and summer. I know I will.
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