Blind Spot - The Eye Doctor's Podcast

Zale talks with Dr. Peter Lin, director of primary care initiatives at the Canadian Heart Research Center and a CBC medical contributor, about what's really behind the pill or eye drop your pharmacist hands you.Questions we explore

• Why does the pharmacy sometimes give you a different drug than the one your doctor prescribed?
• What is a generic drug, and how does a drug become one?
• What do regulators require before approving a generic?
• Is "equivalent" really the same as "identical"?
• What do the letters at the start of a generic's name mean?
• How do effectiveness and safety compare between generics and brand names?
• Why are eye drops harder to evaluate than pills?
• Which eye drops present the biggest challenges when a generic is used? 

This episode is sponsored by Thea Pharma Canada - https://theapharma.ca/

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/blind-spot-the-eye-doctor-s-podcast--5819306/support.

In this episode Zale speaks with Dr. Jacob Rullo, a clinician and researcher focused on dry eye disease and meibomian gland dysfunction. Dry eye is often treated as a simple lubrication problem, but our understanding of the disease is changing.

Dr. Rullo explains the growing importance of meibomian gland dysfunction and evaporative dry eye, and how the DEWS III framework is changing the way we approach diagnosis and treatment. The conversation focuses on artificial tears — from traditional formulations to newer hyaluronic acid, osmoprotectant and lipid-containing drops — and how clinicians can choose the right tear for the right patient rather than simply reaching for whatever sample is available. They also discuss meibomian gland dysfunction, heat, lid hygiene, IPL and LipiFlow, the limitations of current treatments, and Dr. Rullo's research into restoring meibomian gland function. Finally, they explore how reduced blinking and increasing screen time may be contributing to a growing dry eye problem.



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In this episode, Zale sits down with pediatric ophthalmologist Dr. Christine Law to unpack when children should get their eyes checked and why that question is more nuanced than it seems. They break down the difference between basic vision screening and a full comprehensive eye exam, including what each can and cannot detect. Dr. Law shares practical guidance on common refractive issues in children like hyperopia, myopia, and astigmatism, and when glasses may be needed.
The conversation also covers why early detection matters for preventing amblyopia and how parents can think about eye care as their kids grow.

This episode is sponsored by Thea Pharma Canada. Learn more about them at https://theapharma.ca/who-we-are

Listen to our previous episode on the Myopia Epidemic with Dr. Rupa Wong at https://www.spreaker.com/episode/9-myopia-epidemic-dr-rupa-wong--56113340

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Implantable collamer lenses, or ICLs, have evolved from a niche alternative for extreme prescriptions into a mainstream refractive option that is increasingly being chosen over LASIK—even for some ideal LASIK candidates. In this episode, we explore what changed: the history of the procedure, how ICL surgery is performed, the real risks and safety considerations, and how the visual outcomes compare with LASIK. We also dive into higher-order aberrations, stability of refraction, regression, and whether ICLs may offer superior quality of vision in certain patients. Refractive surgery expert Dr. Avi Wallerstein joins the podcast. 

Dr. Avi Wallerstein is the co-founder of Vision Group - https://www.thevisiongroup.com/ 

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The use of intracameral antibiotics - specifically intracameral moxifloxacin - has become relatively mainstream practice in cataract surgery. But how effective is it in preventing endophthalmitis? Are ophthalmologists administering it correctly?  And what are some of the potential adverse effects that can result from intracameral moxifloxacin? Leading expert in the field, Dr. Steve Arshinoff, joins the podcast. 

This episode is sponsored by Thea Pharma Canada - https://www.theapharma.ca

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/blind-spot-the-eye-doctor-s-podcast--5819306/support.

When a posterior capsule rupture occurs during cataract surgery, the standard teaching is that we do an anterior vitrectomy if the hyaloid face is broken and vitreous comes forward. But why is the anterior vitrectomy so important? Is it always 100% necessary? And what are some tips on performing the anterior vitrectomy as safely and effectively as possible. Dr. Uday Devgan, aka The Cataract Coach, joins the podcast.

Check out The Cataract Coach at https://www.youtube.com/@UdayDevgan

This episode is sponsored by Thea Pharma Canada - https://www.theapharma.ca/

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/blind-spot-the-eye-doctor-s-podcast--5819306/support.

In this episode, Dr. Elizabeth Yeu shares her expertise on multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs), discussing patient communication, surgical considerations, optics, and personality traits that influence candidacy. Whether you're an ophthalmologist or optometrist, gain practical tips to improve patient outcomes and satisfaction.

This episode is sponsored by Thea Pharma Canada - https://www.theapharma.ca

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/blind-spot-the-eye-doctor-s-podcast--5819306/support.

In this episode of Blind Spot, Zale discusses the controversial topic of bilateral cataract surgery with Dr. Steve Arshinoff, a leading expert in the field. They explore the historical context, current debates, and the potential benefits and risks associated with performing cataract surgery on both eyes simultaneously. Dr. Arshinoff shares insights from his extensive research and experience, addressing common concerns such as infection risks and refractive surprises, and highlights the importance of evidence-based practice in ophthalmology.

This episode is sponsored by Thea Pharma Canada - https://www.theapharma.ca

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/blind-spot-the-eye-doctor-s-podcast--5819306/support.

In this episode of Blind Spot, Zale sits down with Dr. Kieran Murphy, a renowned inventor and professor of radiology, to explore the essence of invention and creativity in medicine. Dr. Murphy shares his journey from medical innovations to his thoughts on the socio-economic factors that influence creativity. Discover how invention is not just about genius but a mindset, and learn about the challenges and triumphs in the world of medical creativity. 


Dr. Murphy's Book 'The Essence of Invention'
https://www.amazon.ca/Essence-Invention-Medicine-Joy-Creativity/dp/1459754034

This episode is sponsored by Thea Pharma Canada - https://www.theapharma.ca


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/blind-spot-the-eye-doctor-s-podcast--5819306/support.

In this episode, Zale sits down with Dr. Benny Jeng, head of the ZEDS study which investigated the role of longer time antiviral treatmetn for patients with HZO with ocular involvement.  They review the results of the study and disuss whether long term oral antivirals reduces zoster recurrences and the severity and duration of post-herpetic neuralgia. 

This episode is sponsored by Thea Pharma Canada - https://www.theapharma.ca

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/blind-spot-the-eye-doctor-s-podcast--5819306/support.