The Hot Topics symposium is a recurring symposium at the annual meeting that highlights a popular issue from each subspecialty. This year’s symposium featured talks on the effect of GLP-1 agonists in ophthalmology, specifically neuro-ophthalmology, retina and oculoplastics. There were also talks on the use of virtual reality in glaucoma, oral sedation for intraocular surgery, surgical considerations in keratoconus and the real-world issue of pediatric ophthalmology shortage.
“New this year, the audience was able to text questions to a speaker and panel and a ‘continue the conversation’ area in the room where attendees can meet with speakers for 15 minutes at the end of the session,” said Carolyn K. Pan, MD, clinical associate professor, Ophthalmology, Stanford University, and chair of the session.
In his discussion "Medication Contributors to NAION: The Old and The New," Joseph F. Rizzo, III, MD, Simmons Lessell Professor of Ophthalmology, Director, Neuro-Ophthalmology Service, Mass Eye and Ear/Harvard Medical School, noted: “Our research offers evidence of an association between some forms of semaglutide and the risk of developing non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, which is often likened to a stroke of the optic nerve. Our research did not conclude that there is a cause-and-effect, but this lingering issue must be studied in a more definitive way.”
On the topic of "Oral Sedation: MELT," Brent A. Kramer, MD, Vance Thompson Vision, discussed the three reasons why you need MKO MELT. The first reason, he said, is patient experience: “10-25% of patients have a fear of needles. But you don't need to have a fear of needles for it to be an unpleasant experience; it's often the most painful part of cataract surgery! Our patients love when they hear they won't need an IV for surgery,” he said.
The second reason, he said, is IV hassle — it’s more than just a prick. “A good patient experience starts with a good team experience. Our team is able to focus on the patient more and not worry about trying to get a difficult IV. It also cuts down the use of unnecessary supplies which is an ever growing issue,” he said.
The third reason is that it is opioid free. “Cataract surgery is the most performed surgery in the United States. A recent study showed that at a university ~75% of patients were receiving fentanyl for this routine procedure. With opioid abuse and instances of diversion growing, the more you can limit opioids in your surgery center and in your patients, the better.”
According to Dr. Kramer, adding MKO MELT has had a positive impact at his practice. "IV-Free cataract surgery with the MKO MELT has elevated our patient and team experience at Vance Thompson Vision.”
