Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center Glaucoma Specialist Publishes New Research on Multimodal Glaucoma Treatment

A new glaucoma study is exploring how two treatment options, iDose TR and MIGS, may work together to help lower eye pressure and reduce the need for daily glaucoma drops in some patients.

The study was led by Christine Funke, MD, a fellowship-trained glaucoma specialist at Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center. It examined early real-world outcomes among patients with open-angle glaucoma who received both iDose TR and MIGS.

After 3 months, researchers found that many treated eyes had lower average eye pressure, used fewer glaucoma medications, and were more likely to be medication-free than before treatment.

“These results are encouraging, but they do not mean every patient with glaucoma can stop using eye drops. Glaucoma treatment is highly personal, and the right plan depends on each patient’s eye pressure, optic nerve health, disease stage, lifestyle, and long-term risk of vision loss”, says Dr. Christine Funke.

Read the complete peer-reviewed study.

Why Glaucoma Treatment Often Requires More Than One Tool

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, which carries visual information from the eye to the brain. Many forms of glaucoma progress slowly and without obvious early symptoms. Once glaucoma causes vision loss, doctors cannot restore that lost vision.

Prescription eye drops work well for many patients, but they must be used consistently and may not lower pressure enough on their own over time. Treatment may include laser therapy, iDose TR, MIGS, or traditional glaucoma surgery. Your doctor will recommend options based on your eye pressure goals, glaucoma severity, and overall eye health. Using more than one approach can give your glaucoma specialist additional ways to control eye pressure and build a plan that fits your eyes and daily routine.

What Did The New Glaucoma Study Examine?

Dr. Funke and co-author Chloe CoHan reviewed outcomes in 107 eyes from 75 adults with open-angle glaucoma.

Each eye received the iDose®TR travoprost implant together with one of two microinvasive glaucoma procedures:

  • iStent infinite implantation
  • Canaloplasty

Some patients received the glaucoma treatments during cataract surgery. Others received the glaucoma treatments without cataract surgery.

Researchers compared intraocular pressure and use of topical glaucoma medications before treatment and at three months afterward. They also reviewed outcomes by type of glaucoma procedure and whether cataract surgery was performed at the same time.

The study evaluated a multimodal approach that combines treatments that lower intraocular pressure in different ways. In this case, iDose® TR delivers medication inside the eye, while MIGS helps improve the eye’s natural fluid drainage.

What is iDose®TR?

iDose®TR is a small implant placed inside the eye. It continuously releases travoprost, a prescription medication that helps lower eye pressure.

The United States Food and Drug Administration has approved iDose®TR  for reducing eye pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Unlike topical eye drops, the implant delivers medication from inside the eye. This removes the need for the patient to remember and administer that particular medication every day.

However, iDose®TR does not guarantee that a patient will become completely free from glaucoma drops. Some patients may still need additional medication, laser treatment, surgery, or another therapy to reach their target pressure

What Is MIGS?

MIGS, or microinvasive glaucoma surgery, refers to a group of procedures designed to lower eye pressure through smaller openings and less tissue disruption than traditional glaucoma surgery.

The two MIGS approaches examined in this study were iStent Infinite and canaloplasty.

iStent Infinite

The iStent Infinite system uses tiny stents placed in the eye’s drainage pathway. The goal is to help fluid move through the trabecular meshwork and Schlemm’s canal more efficiently.

Canaloplasty

Canaloplasty uses a small catheter to access and expand Schlemm’s canal, part of the eye’s natural drainage system. Improving this pathway may help fluid leave the eye more effectively.

Both procedures address fluid drainage. iDose TR® lowers intraocular pressure by delivering medication directly into the eye. Combining the treatments allows the doctor to address eye pressure through multiple pathways.

What Were The Main Study Results?

The researchers reported several notable changes three months after treatment.

Average Eye Pressure Decreased

Across all 107 treated eyes, average eye pressure decreased from 19.0 mmHg before treatment to 15.3 mmHg after three months.

The study also reported significant average pressure reductions in the larger groups of eyes treated with and without concurrent cataract surgery.

Average Medication Use Decreased

Before treatment, patients used an average of 1.64 topical eye-pressure medications.

After three months, that average decreased to 0.58 medications.

This does not mean every patient stopped every drop. It means the overall number of topical pressure-lowering medications fell across the study group.

More Eyes Were Medication-Free At Three Months

Before treatment, 6.5% of the studied eyes were not using topical pressure-lowering medication.

At the three-month follow-up, 59.4% were medication-free.

Among eyes treated during cataract surgery, 67.7% were medication-free after three months. Among eyes treated without cataract surgery, 46.3% were medication-free.

These percentages describe the patients included in this particular study. They do not predict an individual patient’s outcome.

What Do These Results Mean For Patients?

The findings suggest that iDose®TR  and MIGS may help selected patients lower eye pressure while reducing the burden of topical glaucoma medication.

That could matter for patients who:

  • Have difficulty remembering daily drops
  • Struggle to place drops correctly
  • Experience irritation or other medication side effects
  • Use several pressure-lowering medications
  • Need steadier medication delivery
  • Have glaucoma and cataracts
  • May benefit from a combined treatment plan

Reducing the number of daily drops may also make a treatment routine easier to manage. However, convenience is not the only goal. The treatment must also lower pressure enough to protect the optic nerve.

A patient who becomes medication-free still needs regular eye-pressure checks, optic nerve imaging, visual field testing, and long-term glaucoma care.

Why Combine iDose®TR With MIGS?

Glaucoma treatment often works best when doctors match several strategies to the needs of one eye.

iDose®TR delivers pressure-lowering medication internally. MIGS procedures help improve fluid drainage. Because they work differently, the treatments may provide complementary pressure control.

Think of it as addressing a traffic problem from two directions. One treatment changes how pressure-lowering medication reaches the eye. The other helps create a clearer path for fluid to flow out.

This approach may be especially useful when a patient needs more control than a single treatment can provide.

“Glaucoma is a lifelong disease, and many patients need more than one tool to control eye pressure over time. Our early real-world findings suggest that combining treatments that work in different ways may help appropriately selected patients lower eye pressure while reducing their reliance on daily drops. These results are encouraging, and continued follow-up will help us better understand the long-term role of this approach.” – Christine Funke, MD

What Did The Study Find About Safety?

The researchers reported one intraoperative adverse event. An endothelial detachment occurred during canaloplasty and was repaired in situ. The report states that no additional surgery or lasting complications resulted from that event.

The researchers reported no postoperative adverse events during the three-month follow-up period.

These early findings are reassuring, but every eye procedure carries potential risks. Risks vary by treatment and may include inflammation, bleeding, infection, pressure that becomes too serious or too low, corneal problems, or the need for additional treatment.

A glaucoma specialist should explain the expected benefits, alternatives, and risks before recommending a procedure.

Dr. Christine Funke, MDDr. Christine Funke’s Role In The Research

Dr. Christine Funke conceived and designed the study, performed the procedures, supervised the research, and contributed to the manuscript.

She is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained glaucoma specialist at Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center. Her clinical work includes MIGS, drug-eluting glaucoma devices, tube shunts, cataract surgery, and combined cataract and glaucoma procedures.

Dr. Funke provides care at Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center locations in Chandler, Mesa, and Sun City. Patients can learn more about Dr. Christine Funke and her approach to glaucoma care. 

Ask About Your Glaucoma Treatment Options

Glaucoma can progress without pain or noticeable early warning signs. Regular monitoring and timely treatment can help protect the vision you still have.

Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center provides glaucoma testing and advanced treatment options across Arizona, including care from fellowship-trained glaucoma specialists in the Phoenix Metro area and communities throughout the state.

Schedule a glaucoma evaluation at Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center today to learn which treatment options may fit your eyes, your health, and your long-term vision needs.

Study Disclosure

**The study received no external research funding. Glaukos funded editorial assistance, the publication fee, and the journal’s Rapid Service fee. Dr. Christine Funke reports consulting and speaking relationships with Glaukos. Complete author disclosures are available in the published study.

 

American Vision Partners Celebrates Dr. Brendan Girschek’s AZ Top Docs Recognition

Northern Arizona retina surgeon recognized for advanced vitreoretinal care and commitment to patients across Flagstaff, Show Low, and Cottonwood

American Vision Partners is proud to celebrate Brendan Girschek, MD, FRCSC, FACS, for his recognition by AZ Top Docs.PHOENIX, AZ (May 14, 2026), American Vision Partners is proud to celebrate Brendan Girschek, MD, FRCSC, FACS, for his recognition by AZ Top Docs.

Dr. Girschek is a highly accomplished vitreoretinal surgeon with Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center and Southwestern Eye Center. He brings more than 15 years of experience in private medical and surgical retina practice and is board-certified in both the United States and Canada.

As a retina and vitreous surgery specialist, Dr. Girschek diagnoses and treats complex retinal conditions, including retinal detachments, macular holes, epiretinal membranes, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and challenging medical and surgical uveitis cases. His work helps patients facing serious retinal disease better understand their condition, explore advanced treatment options, and protect as much vision as possible.

“It means everything to be in a position to provide state-of-the-art care – both medically and surgically – in a predominantly underserved area. To establish a reputation of excellence in retinal medicine based out of Flagstaff means everything to my patients and my referring physicians.”

Dr. Girschek serves patients throughout northern Arizona. His primary office and surgical center are located in Flagstaff, with additional clinical and surgical services available in Show Low and Cottonwood. As the only full-time retina surgeon serving northern Arizona, he plays an important role in expanding access to specialized retina care for patients who might otherwise need to travel farther for treatment.

When patients choose him for their eye care, Dr. Girschek hopes they feel supported, informed, and confident throughout the process, especially when travel, timing, surgery, and caregiver support all factor into care planning.

“Empathy and confidence that they will be managed in an efficient and comprehensive manner is key. Our patients seldom live close by, and managing the intricacies of travel and being mindful of everyone’s time – both patients and their generous caregivers – is vital. Balancing the need for surgery when necessary and scheduling close-to-home care is my primary goal.”

His medical training includes an ophthalmology residency at the LSU Eye Center in New Orleans and an Internal Medicine internship at the Ochsner Clinic Foundation. He also completed fellowship training in Vitreoretinal Surgery at the Charles Retina Institute/University of Tennessee in Memphis under renowned retina surgeon Dr. Steve Charles.

In addition to his clinical and surgical work, Dr. Girschek serves as an oral examiner for the American Board of Ophthalmology. He is also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and the American Society of Retina Specialists. His professional contributions include writing for Review of Optometry and Ophthalmology Management, reviewing for Retinal Physician, and presenting at professional meetings, including the American Academy of Optometry Retina SIG and the Global Retina Summit in Canada.

American Vision Partners congratulates Dr. Girschek on this recognition and celebrates his continued commitment to preserving patients’ sight across northern Arizona.

About American Vision Partners

American Vision Partners partners with leading ophthalmology practices and providers to support high-quality, patient-centered eye care. Through its affiliated practices, American Vision Partners helps deliver advanced medical, surgical, and routine vision care to communities across Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, and Texas.

About Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center

Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center provides comprehensive eye care across Arizona, including cataract surgery, retina care, glaucoma care, cornea care, oculoplastics, vision correction, optical services, and routine eye exams. The practice is committed to helping patients protect and improve their vision through experienced doctors, advanced technology, and personalized care.

John Davidson, MD, National Leader in Advanced Vision Correction Joins Barnet Dulaney Perkins to Lead Advanced Technology Cataract and Refractive Surgery

Dr John Davidson, Refractive and Cataract Surgeon.John Davidson, MD, a nationally recognized refractive and cataract surgeon, will be joining Barnet Dulaney Perkins in August of 2026, continuing his path to redefine what’s possible in modern vision correction through a career marked by innovation, clinical excellence, and trusted leadership among peers.

Dr. Davidson specializes in tailoring highly personalized vision plans designed to maximize patients’ long-term visual freedom from glasses and contact lenses. He devotes his entire practice to refractive surgery, cataract surgery, lens replacement, and micro-invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), with a singular focus on delivering exceptional outcomes.

That commitment has led to more than 50,000 successful, sight-restoring procedures, with refractive outcomes that exceed results published by many of the world’s most respected surgeons. Among Dr. Davidson’s greatest professional honors is the trust placed in him by fellow physicians—having performed eye surgery on hundreds of medical doctors, ophthalmic surgeons, optometrists, and their loved ones.

Throughout his career Dr. Davidson has held numerous leadership roles, including Assistant Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at the Jules Stein Eye Institute, UCLA School of Medicine, Chief Surgeon of the Miramar LASIK Center in Camarillo, and Director of Cataract and Refractive Surgery at Miramar Eye Specialists Medical Group in Ventura and Lynn Eye Medical Group in Thousand Oaks.

A pioneer in surgical innovation, Dr. Davidson was:

  • The first surgeon on California’s Central Coast to perform Laser Lens Replacement using LenSx, ORA, and Verion
  • The first surgeon in the region to implant LAL+ (adjustable), Odyssey (trifocal), ReSTOR (bifocal), Vivity (EDOF), Trulign (accommodative) and Clareon (Toric) lenses.
  • The first to perform LASIK using the Allegretto EX500 laser
  • The first surgeon in the nation to implant the FDA-approved PanOptix trifocal lens using the NGENUITY® 3D Heads-Up Visualization System
  • The second surgeon worldwide to perform cataract surgery using a head-mounted 3D display system

Dr. Davidson is also a nationally recognized educator and industry leader in advanced lens and laser technology. Since 2015, he has served as National Director for the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s Laser Cataract Surgery Skills Transfer Course and as an Instructor for the ASCRS Femtosecond Laser Cataract Skills Sessions. He collaborates closely with laser and lens implant manufacturers to improve surgical devices, hardware, and software, and he authors training curricula for LenSx and ORA systems used by surgeons nationwide.

“Dr. John Davidson is the definition of a surgeon’s surgeon,” said Dr. Shaun Brierly, Chief Medical Officer of American Vision Partners. “His track record of innovation, his unmatched clinical outcomes, and the trust he has earned from peers across the country align perfectly with our mission to set the highest standard in vision care. We are honored to welcome Dr. Davidson and look forward to the impact he will have on our patients, our physicians, and the future of refractive and cataract surgery at Barnet Dulaney Perkins.”

Throughout his career, Dr. Davidson has:

  • Implanted over 10,000 Advanced Technology Lenses
  • Performed 10,000+ Laser Lens Replacements
  • Completed 8,000+ ORA-assisted cases
  • Implanted more than 1,800 PanOptix trifocal lenses since their launch

A sought-after speaker, Dr. Davidson has lectured at more than 20 state and regional ophthalmology society meetings and teaches ophthalmology residency programs across California, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas, with a focus on intraocular lens power calculation strategies. “Dr. Davidson has spent his career pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in vision correction,” said Shane Armstrong, CEO of American Vision Partners. “From pioneering new technologies to educating surgeons nationwide, his influence extends far beyond the operating room. Bringing his expertise and leadership to Barnet Dulaney Perkins strengthens our commitment to innovation, precision, and truly personalized patient care.  We’re proud to have him join the Barnet Dulaney Perkins team and look forward to what’s ahead.””

Dr. Davidson earned his medical degree with Highest Distinction (top 1%) from Indiana University School of Medicine, following undergraduate degrees in Biology and Chemistry with a minor in Mathematics—also with Highest Distinction. He completed his ophthalmology residency at Indiana University and a prestigious fellowship in pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus at UCLA, where he received the Fellowship Research Award. He continues to teach and mentor residents and fellows.

Committed to service beyond the clinic, Dr. Davidson has participated in surgical mission trips to Albania, Fiji, Mexico, Venezuela, and Vietnam, providing care to underserved populations.

Dr. Davidson was the first physician in any specialty in Ventura County to be named a Southern California Super Doctor and has been nominated annually by fellow Los Angeles-area ophthalmologists since 2013. He has also received the American Medical Association’s Physician Recognition Award multiple times for exceeding continuing medical education standards, most recently in December 2024.

 

HONORS & AWARDS:

  • Southern California Super Doctors (Dr. Davidson was the first doctor in any specialty in Ventura County to be awarded this distinction and has been nominated by other Los Angeles area ophthalmologists for this title every year since 2013.)
  • Jules Stein Eye Institute Clinical Fellow Research Award, UCLA, 1992
  • Phi Beta Kappa, Indiana University, 1983
  • Alpha Omega Alpha, Indiana University Medical School (Junior & Senior Years), 1986-87
  • Arthur R. Metz Distinguished Academic Scholarship, Indiana University, 1979-83

EDUCATION & TRAINING:

  • Fellowship in Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus at Jules Stein Institute, UCLA, 1992
  • Residency in Ophthalmology at Indiana University, Indianapolis, 1991
  • Medical Doctorate (MD degree) with Highest Distinction (top 1%) from Indiana University in Indianapolis, Indiana, 1987
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA degrees) in Biology and Chemistry with Highest Distinction (top 1%) from Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana, 1983

RESEARCH:

  • Principal Investigator for studies leading to recent FDA approvals for iDose, and UNITY® VCS and CS, Alcon’s unified surgical platforms for cataract and vitreoretinal procedures.

PUBLICATIONS:

  • Strabismus Surgery in Patients with Myasthenia, Journal of Pediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus, 1993;30:292-5.
  • The Visual Function of Professional Baseball Players (Dodgers), American Journal of Ophthalmology, 1996;122:476-85.
  • Delivering on the promise: AcrySof IQ ReSTOR IOL, EyeWorld ASCRS 2012
  • OSN Article, “Cataract Refractive Surgery: Myth Busters”, August 2014
  • OSN Article, “The New Era in Astigmatism Management”, October 10, 2014
  • OSN Article, “Refractive Cataract Surgery: Practice Profiles”, December 10, 2014
  • How does the OMNI° Surgical System work? Provided idea for explaining how OMNI works in the corporate patient education brochure, Sight Sciences, 2015
  • The LenSx Laser—A Review of Current Literature on its Use in Cataract Surgery, US Ophthalmic Review, April 2016

Dr. Daniel Adelberg Performs Arizona’s First ENCELTO™ Stem Cell-Based Gene Therapy Procedure for Macular Telangiectasia Type 2

Breakthrough treatment offers new hope for patients with a rare, progressive retinal disease

Dr. Daniel Adelburg

 

Phoenix, AZ — February 25, 2026 — Dr. Daniel Adelberg of Southwestern Eye Center, a leading ophthalmology practice managed by American Vision Partners – Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, has performed the first ENCELTO™ gene therapy procedure in Arizona, marking a significant milestone in advanced retinal care and personalized medicine.

The procedure treats Macular Telangiectasia Type 2 (MacTel), a rare and progressive retinal disease that gradually damages the central retina and leads to vision loss. This landmark case represents a new treatment option for patients who previously had limited or no effective therapies available.

Macular Telangiectasia Type 2, also known as idiopathic macular telangiectasia type 2, is a bilateral neurodegenerative disease typically diagnosed in adults over age 40. The condition causes localized retinal degeneration and the gradual loss of retinal cells, resulting in declining central vision and changes to the retinal blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the eye. MacTel is uncommon worldwide and historically has had few effective treatment options.

ENCELTO™, approved by the FDA in 2025 following a clinical study involving 228 patients, is an encapsulated stem cell-based gene therapy implant designed to slow disease progression and preserve vision.

About the size of a grain of rice, the ENCELTO implant is surgically placed inside the eye. It contains living cells that have been genetically modified to continuously produce and release recombinant human ciliary neurotrophic factor (rhCNTF) — a protective protein that supports retinal health and reduces the degeneration of photoreceptors, the light-sensitive cells responsible for vision.

ENCELTO is an encapsulated cell-based gene therapy.

By delivering stem cell-based therapy directly to the retina, ENCELTO helps protect retinal cells and may slow the vision loss associated with MacTel, helping patients maintain independence and quality of life.

“This treatment is a major breakthrough in ophthalmology and medicine,” said Dr. Daniel Adelberg, retina specialist at Southwestern Eye Center. “It represents proof of concept that stem cell-based therapies can provide long-term — and potentially lifelong — treatment options that were not previously possible.”

This breakthrough therapy is the result of years of scientific research and collaboration, including the Duke Reading Center’s role in clinical trial design and endpoint development. ENCELTO is intended for adults diagnosed with idiopathic Macular Telangiectasia Type 2. Candidates for treatment undergo a comprehensive retinal evaluation and medical history review to determine whether the therapy is appropriate. The introduction of ENCELTO therapy at Southwestern Eye Center expands access to advanced retinal treatments in Arizona and reinforces the practice’s commitment to bringing leading-edge technology to patients across the region.

About Southwestern Eye Center
Southwestern Eye Center, managed by American Vision Partners, is a leading provider of comprehensive ophthalmology services across Arizona. The practice offers advanced medical and surgical eye care, including retina treatment, cataract surgery, glaucoma care, and vision correction, delivered by experienced specialists using state-of-the-art technology. Southwestern Eye Center was established in 1982 in Mesa, Arizona, by Dr. Lothaire Bluth. Over the last 40 years, the practice has grown and continues to offer world-class technology and patient-first values across Arizona and New Mexico. The experienced team of doctors at Southwestern Eye Center are specialized in multiple fields of ophthalmology, including cataracts, retinal disease, glaucoma, and oculoplastics. Together, the caring team of physicians and staff make sure that their focus is always on providing the highest-quality eye care for their patients and convenient service for their communities. For more information, please visit http://www.SWeye.com.

American Vision Partners Honors Dr. Ronald Wain Barnet

PHOENIX, Arizona – January 5, 2026 – American Vision Partners (AVP), one of the nation’s leading eye care practice management organizations, today announced the passing of Dr. Ronald Wain Barnet, a founder of Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center and a respected leader in ophthalmology. Dr. Barnet passed away on January 1, 2026.

More than 35 years ago, Dr. Barnet co-founded Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center with a vision centered on delivering high-quality, patient-focused eye care and expanding access to ophthalmic services throughout Arizona. His leadership, clinical excellence, and commitment to service helped establish the foundation of what would become one of the most recognized eye care practices in the Southwest.

Today, Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center operates 24 locations across Arizona with a team of more than 450 physicians, providers, and staff. The practice is part of the American Vision Partners network, which supports leading eye care organizations across the United States while preserving their local identities and clinical autonomy.

“Dr. Barnet exemplified what it means to lead with purpose,” said Shane Armstrong, CEO of American Vision Partners. “His dedication to patients, his commitment to innovation in eye care, and his belief in building strong medical teams continue to shape the care we provide every day.”

In a statement, American Vision Partners shared, “We are grateful for Dr. Barnet’s lasting contributions to the field of ophthalmology, his military service, his philanthropic spirit, and the enduring impact of his leadership. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and the many patients whose lives were improved through his work.”

Dr. Barnet’s career left a lasting mark not only on Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center but also on the broader eye care community. His focus on access, quality, and integrity remains embedded in the culture of the organizations he helped build.

For more information about Dr. Barnet’s life and legacy, please view his published obituary:
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/ronald-barnet-obituary?id=60437852

About American Vision Partners

American Vision Partners is a leading eye care practice management organization supporting a network of ophthalmology and optometry practices across the United States. AVP partners with physician-led practices to provide operational, administrative, and strategic support, enabling doctors and care teams to focus on delivering high-quality, patient-centered eye care.

About Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center

Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center provides comprehensive medical and surgical eye care throughout Arizona, including cataract surgery, LASIK and vision correction, retina care, glaucoma treatment, and comprehensive eye exams.

Revolutionary Procedure Takes Control of High Eye Pressure and Prevents Irreversible Vision Loss

American Vision Partners (AVP) performs revolutionary, micro-invasive, injectable treatment for the full range of glaucoma disease to significantly decrease the dependence of daily eye drops.

Phoenix, AZ — October 1, 2025 — American Vision Partners ophthalmology practices are proud to announce the availability of iDose® TR (travoprost intraocular implant) 75 mcg iDose TR is a new, FDA approved treatment that is designed to provide long duration, continuous drug therapy directly inside the eye, helping patients take better control over the elevated eye pressure associated with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

More than 3 million people in the United States are affected by Glaucoma, an eye disease caused by increased pressure in the eye and it can also cause damage to the optic nerve which carries visual information from the eyes to the brain. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause permanent damage to the eye, which means vision loss cannot be reversed. Prescription eye drops are the most common treatment for glaucoma, but they can be difficult to administer correctly and can cause uncomfortable or irritating side effects for most patients. High rates of non-compliance and non-adherence to prescription medications contribute to disease progression.
“With iDose TR, we confront the standard practice of relying on topical drops, which may cause unpleasant side effects and be challenging to properly administer multiple times a day,” said Dr. Christine Funke, surgeon at Barnet Dulany Perkins Eye Center. “By delivering an effective therapy directly inside of the eye, iDose TR is an alternative to prescription eye drops and a hands-free way to keep eye pressure under control. The high rate of efficacy of iDose gives me the confidence to perform a standalone glaucoma procedure knowing many patients will gain freedom from their topical therapy. iDose gives physicians and patients a solution for the huge problem of non-compliance; as a result, glaucoma clinic has become a place with happy grateful patients”, says Dr. Funke.
Developed by Glaukos, iDose TR reduces high or elevated pressure within the eye by automatically releasing the same type of medication used for decades in the most commonly prescribed eye drops. During a clinical study, 8 out of 10 patients did not need prescription eye drops 12 months after administration of iDose TR. iDose TR may be particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty adhering to a daily medication regimen or whose condition is uncontrolled on topical glaucoma medications. “American Vision Partners is dedicated to providing our patients with the most advanced treatment options available, iDose gives physicians and patients a solution for the huge problem of non-compliance when using drops; as a result, my glaucoma clinic has become a place with happy grateful patients”, says Dr. Funke. “iDose TR represents a significant development in how we can proactively address glaucoma care, and we are proud to be among the first practices to make this therapy available.”

Advantages of iDose® TR

  • Sustained Medication Release: Delivers consistent levels of medication, reducing IOP fluctuations.
  • Improved Compliance: Eliminates the need for daily eye drops, addressing adherence challenges.
  • Minimally Invasive Procedure: Implanted during a quick outpatient procedure with minimal recovery time.
  • Reduced Side Effects: By delivering medication directly into the eye, it minimizes common side effects associated with topical treatments.
  • Long-Term Efficacy: Clinical studies have shown that approximately 80% of patients remained free from additional glaucoma medications for at least 12 months post-implantation.

About American Vision Partners

American Vision Partners is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing eye care physician services organizations. AVP serves communities throughout Arizona, Texas, New Mexico, and Nevada with more than 180 nationally recognized doctors and 120 locations. We partner with the most respected ophthalmology practices in the country and share a best-in-class management system, infrastructure, and technology to provide the highest-quality patient care. Our partner practices, including Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center, Southwestern Eye Center, Retinal Consultants of Arizona, M&M Eye Institute,  Wellish Abrams Eye Institute, Southwest Eye Institute, Aiello Eye Institute, Moretsky Cassidy Vision Correction, West Texas Eye Associates, and Vantage Eye Center have on average been in practice for more than 30 years. For more information, please visit www.AmericanVisionPartners.com.

A Visionary Breakthrough: Dr. Sanjay Kamat performs first ever ocular implant iDose in Lake Havasu City, AZ

Barnet Dulaney Perkins is leading the way in glaucoma treatment, performing a revolutionary ocular treatment for the full range of glaucoma disease to significantly decrease the dependence of daily eye drops.

Lake Havasu City, AZ — August 13, 2025 — Barnet Dulaney Perkins is thrilled to announce Dr. Sanjay Kamat and his team successfully performed the first-ever iDose TR implantation in Lake Havasu City, AZ. iDose TR is a new, groundbreaking FDA approved treatment that is designed to provide long duration, continuous drug therapy directly inside the eye, helping patients take better control over the elevated eye pressure associated with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. This innovative device, developed by Glaukos, delivers sustained-release medication directly into the eye, reducing or even eliminating the need for daily drops.

More than 3 million people in the United States are affected by Glaucoma, an eye disease caused by increased pressure in the eye and it can also cause damage to the optic nerve which carries visual information from the eyes to the brain. If left untreated, glaucoma can cause permanent damage to the eye, which means vision loss cannot be reversed. Prescription eye drops are the most common treatment for glaucoma, but they can be difficult to administer correctly and can cause uncomfortable or irritating side effects for most patients. High rates of non-compliance and non-adherence to prescription medications contribute to disease progression.

“With iDose TR, this innovative device delivers sustained-release medication directly into the eye, which reduces, and can even eliminate the need for the patient to have to self-administer eye drops multiple times a day, which may cause unpleasant side effects” said Dr. Sanjay Kamat. By delivering an effective therapy directly inside of the eye, iDose TR is an alternative to prescription eye drops and a hands-free way to keep eye pressure under control. “It is great to be able to offer the latest technology available in glaucoma management. Achieving great pressure control, having less side effects, being less dependent on daily eyedrops, and preventing permanent vision loss are great improvements in quality of life for our patients”, says Dr. Kamat.

Developed by Glaukos, iDose TR reduces high or elevated pressure within the eye by automatically releasing the same type of medication used for decades in the most commonly prescribed eye drops. During a clinical study, 8 out of 10 patients did not need prescription eye drops 12 months after administration of iDose TR. iDose TR may be particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty adhering to a daily medication regimen or whose condition is uncontrolled on topical glaucoma medications. “Barnet Dulaney Perkins is dedicated to providing our patients with the most advanced treatment options available, iDose gives physicians and patients a solution for the huge problem of non-compliance when using drops”, says Dr. Kamat.

Advantages of iDose® TR

  • Sustained Medication Release: Delivers consistent levels of medication, reducing IOP fluctuations.
  • Improved Compliance: Eliminates the need for daily eye drops, addressing adherence challenges.
  • Minimally Invasive Procedure: Implanted during a quick outpatient procedure with minimal recovery time.
  • Reduced Side Effects: By delivering medication directly into the eye, it minimizes common side effects associated with topical treatments.
  • Long-Term Efficacy: Clinical studies have shown that approximately 80% of patients remained free from additional glaucoma medications for at least 12 months post-implantation.

To learn more about innovative glaucoma treatments available at Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center, visit www.goodeyes.com or call 602-955-1000 to schedule a comprehensive medical eye exam.

About Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center
Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center, an affiliate of American Vision Partners, has been providing state-of-the-art medical and surgical eye care in Arizona for over 35 years. With a commitment to advanced technology and compassionate care, its team of experienced eye specialists helps patients protect, improve and preserve their sight for life.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Chris La Fleur | chris.lafleur@americanvisionpartners.com|

Doctors Christine Funke and Aaron Amacher Among First in Southwest to Implant Clareon® PanOptix® Pro Trifocal Lens

Dr. Christine Funke and Dr. Brett Clark holding Clareon® PanOptix® Pro IOL boxes in the operating suite

Mesa, AZ – July 18, 2025 – Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center and East Valley Peaks Surgery Center—trusted leaders in advanced eye care and proud members of the American Vision Partners network—are among the first in the Southwest to successfully implant the Clareon® PanOptix® Pro Trifocal Intraocular Lens (IOL), Alcon’s most advanced presbyopia-correcting lens to date.

Built with Alcon’s proprietary ENLIGHTEN® NXT Optical Technology, the PanOptix® Pro sets a new standard for trifocal IOLs by offering:

  • 94% total light energy utilization

  • 50% reduction in light scatter compared to previous models¹³

  • Enhanced contrast sensitivity

  • Minimal reports of glare, halos, and starbursts

  • Seamless visual range from near (33 cm) to far distances

Dr. Christine Funke, a board-certified ophthalmologist with fellowship training in cornea, external disease, and refractive surgery, was one of the first in the region to implant the PanOptix® Pro. With over 20 years of surgical experience, Dr. Funke is known for her commitment to bringing cutting-edge technology to patients in the East Valley.

“The clarity and consistency we’re seeing with the PanOptix® Pro is remarkable,” said Dr. Funke. “It offers patients a premium vision solution that aligns with their lifestyles and visual goals.”

She is joined by Dr. Aaron Amacher III, board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained cornea specialist, whose expertise in complex cataract and refractive surgery makes him an invaluable leader in adopting new surgical innovations.

“This lens technology significantly expands our ability to deliver high-quality vision with reduced dependence on glasses,” said Dr. Amacher. “It’s exciting to offer patients another visual solution.”

Available in both standard and toric versions, the Clareon® PanOptix® Pro gives surgeons the flexibility to tailor treatment to each patient’s unique refractive needs. With a reported 98% patient satisfaction rate⁴, this lens reaffirms Alcon’s mission to help people see brilliantly.

Patients across Arizona now have access to this revolutionary lens technology, thanks to the expertise and leadership of surgeons like Dr. Funke and Dr. Amacher at Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center.

To learn more about the Clareon® PanOptix® Pro or upcoming educational events, visit www.myalcon.com or contact your Alcon representative.

Celebrating Dr. Jordan Graff—Three-Time AZ Top Doc!

Portrait of Dr. Jordan Graff in surgical scrubs at Barnet Dulaney Perkins Eye Center

PHOENIX, AZ (May 7, 2025)   We’re delighted to announce that Dr. Jordan Graff has been named an AZ Top Doc for 2025, marking his third time earning this prestigious honor! Selected through AZ Top Docs’ rigorous, merit-based review process—where peers evaluate clinical expertise, leadership, research, and community service—Dr. Graff continues to set the standard for retinal care in Arizona.

A Leader in Retinal Medicine

Dr. Graff is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in diseases of the retina and vitreous. A Brigham Young alumnus and magna cum laude graduate of the University of California—with honors in the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society—he completed his ophthalmology residency and vitreoretinal fellowship at the University of Iowa, earning the Heed Foundation Fellowship for promising fellows nationwide.

Known for his surgical precision, Dr. Graff leads multiple groundbreaking clinical trials and has authored numerous scientific publications. His commitment extends beyond our community: fluent in Spanish, he regularly returns to Latin America on medical mission trips, providing sight-saving care to underserved populations.

What Makes an AZ Top Doc?

AZ Top Docs vets each candidate through a confidential peer-review process:

  • Clinical Excellence: Proven track record in patient outcomes and surgical skill.
  • Research & Education: Leadership in clinical trials, publications, and teaching.
  • Community Service: Dedication to outreach, mentoring, and humanitarian missions.

Being named an AZ Top Doc reflects Dr. Graff’s outstanding reputation among his colleagues and his unwavering commitment to exceptional patient care.

Join us in congratulating Dr. Graff on this remarkable achievement and thanking him for bringing world-class retinal expertise to BDP!

AVP Announces Their 2024-2025 Medical Executive Committee

The Medical Executive Committee (MEC) plays a crucial role in ensuring American Vision Partners (AVP) delivers high-quality medical care and promotes effective collaboration among medical staff, administration, and other stakeholders across all brands within the AVP organization.

“Our MEC is responsible for making important medical and clinical decisions, overseeing medical staff, and sharing best practices amongst our expanded provider base, playing a key role in setting the strategic direction and policies related to patient care, medical staff, and clinical services,” says Dr. Shaun Brierly, AVP Chief Medical Officer and MEC Chair.

The MEC will also have a role in ensuring that medical staff members adhere to ethical standards and comply with relevant laws, regulations, and organizational policies.