ProKera(R) is a unique treatment option for patients presenting with corneal abrasions, scarring, erosions, corneal scars, chemical burns, corneal defects, partial limbal stem cell deficiencies, high-risk corneal transplants, Stevens – Johnson syndrome, and many other ocular surface conditions which may require corneal surgery or a corneal transplant. Sutureless and adhesiveless, ProKera(R) is a safe and effective method to promote healing and reconstruction of the ocular surface and orbit with minimal side effects.

ProKera(R) is similar to a contact lens and is made by placing a piece of amniotic membrane tissue in between two rings made out of a clear, flexible material. The membrane is thin and clear, like the tissue on the surface of the eye and protects the eye’s damaged tissue while inserted. The ProKera(R) device can remain in the eye for up to 30 days. However, it should facilitate healing of most defects within 5-10 days, at which point the membrane in the device will naturally dissolve and the ring set can be removed by an eye surgeon.

The healing properties of ProKera(R) deliver natural biological and therapeutic actions inherent in amniotic tissue to help damaged eye surfaces heal faster. Eyes treated with ProKera(R) heal faster, with less scarring and inflammation. Moreover, it reduces chances of the formation of abnormal blood vessels and induces less pain or discomfort to the patient.

“ProKera allows me to provide my patients with exceptional clinical results safely and effectively, without surgery,” said Dr. Mary Davidian. “In addition, the ProKera device is now configured and packaged much like a contact lens, which enables easy insertion right here in our office, hospital bedside, or following other surgical procedures. I have been using ProKera in the operating room for several years and I was delighted when it was officially approved by Medicare recently for use as an office procedure rather than an operating room procedure.”

Considered a leading expert in cataract, corneal treatment and surgery, Dr. Davidian frequents national conferences on ophthalmology. She has lectured to other ophthalmologists on the proper use of ProKera(R) and proper diagnosis, addressing the conditions under which a patient can benefit the most from this device.

“I think of it as a magic Band-Aid,” said Dr. Davidian. “As a corneal specialist, I see many of patients with corneal damage, including patients referred to me by my colleagues. ProKera(R) allows me to provide patients with a unique alternative to surgery which, in many cases, helps them with a much quicker and less painful recovery.”

Dr. Mary Davidian, founder and Medical Director of Highland Ophthalmology Associates, LLC, has been living in and serving the greater Hudson Valley community since 1997. Dr. Davidian is a fellowship trained corneal specialist. She is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS), the New York Keratorefractive Surgery Society, the New York Intraocular Lens Implant (NYIOL) Society, and the New York State Ophthalmological Society (NYSOS) in which she has served on the Board of Directors.

Dr. Davidian is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and serves as an Associate Adjunct Professor at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary and the New York Medical College.

Call (845) 562-0138 today for your first consultation with Dr. Davidian. For more information about ProKera(R), visit www.highlandophthalmology.com .

The Bio-Tissue ProKera(R) website is www.biotissue.com .

ProKera(R) is a registered trademark of Bio-Tissue, Inc.

News Source: Highland Ophthalmology Associates :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source by Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®. View all current news at: http://Send2PressNewswire.com .

“Cataracts are the leading cause of visual loss in Americans 65 and older,” said Mary Davidian, M.D. fellowship trained cornea specialist at Highland Ophthalmology. “This month, learn how to recognize the symptoms, find treatment, and educate others on this common – but treatable – eye condition.”

What is a Cataract? A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens of the eye, the same part of the eye responsible for focusing light and enabling you to see sharp and clear images. Aside from the normal aging process, additional causes for developing cataracts include eye injury, previous eye surgery, the use of certain systemic medications, long-term unprotected sun exposure, and a family history of cataracts.

Symptoms – The most common symptoms of cataracts are:
- clouded or blurry vision
- sensitivity to light, both night-time glare and daylight
- fading colors
- difficulty reading
- double vision (often goes away as cataracts worsen)
- frequent changes in prescription of eyeglasses and contact lenses.

According to Dr. Thien (Tim) Huynh, fellowship trained glaucoma specialist at Highland Ophthalmology, “It is important to note that small cataracts may not cause any noticeable changes in your vision, but as the condition tends to develop slowly, it will eventually get worse.” If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor, as these may be signs of a cataract or other eye conditions. An ophthalmologist, a doctor who specializes in eye care and surgery, should be seen to diagnose and help treat your eye condition.

Because cataracts are so common in older adults, it’s important to have your eyes examined on a regular basis. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, people aged 40 to 64 should have a comprehensive eye examination every two to four years; people 65 and older should have a comprehensive eye examination every one to two years. People with a history of eye problems or other medical conditions that increase the risk of eye disease –such as diabetes– should have eye exams more frequently (once a year or as recommended by your doctor).

During the months of August, 2010, Highland Ophthalmology will be offering complimentary cataract screenings at the New Windsor, NY Vision Center. Appointments can be scheduled by calling (845) 562-0138.

About Highland Ophthalmology Associates:

Highland Ophthalmology Associates is a full-service ophthalmology practice, located at 140 Executive Drive in New Windsor, NY and headed under the direction of Dr. Mary E. Davidian, a Fellowship Trained Corneal Specialist and a Refractive Surgeon. She specializes in corneal transplants, multifocal lens implants and cataract surgery. The staff includes: Dr. Thien (Tim) Huynh, a Fellowship Trained Glaucoma Specialist who also performs cataract surgery; Dr. Martin Cohen, a Doctor of Optometry with extensive experience in ocular disease management and primary eye care; Dr. Miriam M. Rolf, a Doctor of Optometry with extensive clinical and academic experience. Highland Ophthalmology is affiliated with leading medical and academic centers in the Hudson Valley and the New York City metropolitan area including: The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, Westchester Medical Center, Central New York Eye Center and The Vassar Brothers Medical Center.

More information on Highland Ophthalmology Associates can be found at www.highlandophthalmology.com .

News Source: Highland Ophthalmology Associates :: This press release was issued by Send2Press® and is Copyright © 2010 Neotrope® News Network – all rights reserved.