From Sarasota to Peru

Center For Sight founder and CEO Dr. David Shoemaker, was among a select group of 18 ophthalmologists from the U.S. and abroad who recently traveled to Lima, Peru  to perform laser cataract surgery on Peruvians with very dense cataracts. The surgeries were performed at the Instituto de Ojos Sacro Cuore as part of a skills transfer program arranged by LensAR, Inc., an Orlando-based company that is designing the next phase of advanced femtosecond laser technology for refractive cataract surgery. In all, 70 cases were performed with remarkable results.

Dr. Shoemaker agrees the new technology holds great promise. “Amazing technology. Flawless execution,” he says. “There is no doubt the LensAR System will result in safer and more predictable outcomes for our patients. It is rare to experience a true ‘Wow!’ moment, and that is exactly what this laser does.”

The LensAR Laser System uses the most advanced measurement-guided beam technology ever offered to cataract surgeons. Previous generations have been cleared by FDA for two specific procedures: anterior capsulotomy and lens fragmentation. The new system has been successfully used in more than 600 eyes worldwide with excellent clinical success and reliability, paving the way to be considered for FDA approval for all cataract procedures.

How to Utilize Your Long-term Care Insurance Policy

Did you know Take Care employs a professional certified in long-term care? This means Take Care researches clients’ long-term care insurance policies for care coverage, provides the client with the proper care, and then follows through to effectively processes claims and payment. This is how healthcare is evolving, and Take Care Private Duty Home Health Care leads the way in providing the guidance and support of a professional insurance team.

Known for her personal touch and commitment, Susanne S. Wise, R.N., M.B.A., Take Care’s founder and executive administrator, continues to embrace health care challenges and implement innovative changes so older adults may age comfortably and safely in their own residence.

Since 1995, the Take Care team has been dedicated to providing expert, compassionate care in addition to the oversight and guidance in planning, and received Sarasota Magazine’s “Best of Sarasota 2012” award. (Sarasota License: HHA#21657096 & Manatee License: HHA#299991405)

The Truth About Biophosphonates

You may have heard recent reports about bisphosphonate drugs (Fosamax, Boniva, and Actonel) and their potential effect on periodontal health. Dr. Thomas Rubino feels these reports can be alarming and even misleading, especially for those taking bisphosphonates. The information below explains what bisphosphonates are, how they are related to periodontal health, and how bisphosphonates may impact your periodontal treatment.

Bisphosphonates, also known as bone-sparing drugs, are used to treat and prevent osteoporosis and are also prescribed to patients diagnosed with certain bone cancers.

In rare instances, some people who have been treated with bisphosphonates, especially the intravenous form, develop a rare condition called osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), which can cause severe, irreversible, and often debilitating damage to the jaw. ONJ can be worsened by invasive dental procedures such as tooth extractions or dental implants.

Symptoms of ONJ include:

• Loose teeth

• Numbness or a feeling of heaviness in the jaw

• Pain, swelling, or infection of the gums or jaw

• Gums that do not heal

• Exposed bone

It is important to maintain your oral health if you are taking bisphosphonates. Even though the risk of developing ONJ while taking a bisphosphonate remains very small, if you need periodontal surgery, your dental professional may recommend that you interrupt your bisphosphonate therapy prior to, during, and/or after your procedure. Be assured that both the medical and dental communities are studying ways to ensure the safest outcomes for patients taking bisphosphonates who require invasive dental procedures. Dr. Rubino would be happy to evaluate your personal situation and can be reached at (941) 792-0029 to set up an appointment.