New Treatment for Macular holes

Recent approval of Jetrea (Ocriplasmin) to treat symptomatic VMA (Vitreo Macular Adhesion) has opened up a new era in non surgical management of macular holes. Previously only a hospital based surgery was able to reverse the process of macular hole development but now a new drug can be injected into the eye painlessly in the office and within a few weeks the process reverses back to more normal vision levels....  more


FDA Approves ASRS Leader's ArgusŪ II Artificial Retina

On February 14, the FDA approved the Argus II artificial retina developed by ASRS Executive Committee and Board Member Mark S. Humayun, MD, PhD.

This breakthrough technology is the first ever to offer limited vision to patients with late-stage retinitis pigmentosa (RP).

 Second Sight Medical Products (Sylmar, CA) manufactures the Argus II implant, which has 60 electrodes and a tiny camera mounted on eyeglasses to capture images.

 The FDA approved Argus II for adults age 25 years or older with severe to profound RP. About 10,000 to 15,000 of the 100,000 Americans with RP will qualify for Argus II. Up to 4,000 patients a year can be treated with the device.


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Macular degeneration and Aspirin?

Aspirin and Macular degeneration... is there an increase in the wet form of macular degeneration in those patients taking aspirin? The wet form develops quicker than the dry form. It may only be related to the fact that you are more likely to take aspirin if you have medical problems like stroke or heart attacks in the past and these conditions are more commonly associated with wet age related macular degeneration. ...  more

Patient Resources


What To Expect

At East Carolina Retina Consultants, we want each and every patient to be prepared for his or her appointment, and be at ease with our experienced, caring physicians. See what to expect during your visit to our practice.  Read More

 


Patient Education

Patient education is a vital and important part of the diagnosis and treatment process at East Carolina Retina Consultants. Here, you will find information and helpful articles related to the management and prevention of common retinal concerns. Read More


In An Emergency

Should you experience an eye emergency at any time during the course of your care at East Carolina Retina Consultants, take immediate action.  If you are in our office at the time, we will either treat the problem or refer you to the appropriate care facility.  If you are not in our office or it is after hours, please dial 911 or go to the Vidant Hospital emergency room where there is an on call ophthalmologist. Read More


Patient Testimonials

Are you new to our practice or seeking a vitreo-retina specialist?  Find out what some of our short-term and long-term patients have to say about East Carolina Retina Consultants and their experiences here. Read More


Patient Forms

Have an upcoming appointment, but are new to East Carolina Retina Consultants?  Follow the link below to access forms that can be filled out before your appointment.  Because our physicians spend as much time as needed with each patient, bring the completed forms with you when you come to cut down on waiting time. Read More


FAQ’s

What is a retina specialist?  What kinds of treatments are available to me?  Many patients have questions when seeing our practice for the first time.  Our knowledgeable physicians and staff will be glad to answer your inquiries, but feel free to use this online resource as an initial guide. Read More


Practice Policies

At East Carolina Retina Consultants, we are committed to maintaining the privacy of your health information as well as providing you with our financial policies up front to offer several methods of payment for services. Read More


Billing & Insurance

Our practice accepts many forms of insurance including Workers Compensation and also accepts Medicaid for your convenience.  We will file all insurance claims as a courtesy to our patients, however, proper and up-to-date documentation of coverage must be provided upon check-in.  Read More


Medical Records

Your medical records are kept secure and confidential for your safety.  If you would like to obtain a copy of your medical records, please ask a member of our staff in person. Read More


Case Studies

Dr. Van Houten remains committed to increasing his knowledge in the areas of ophthalmology and vitreo-retinal care.  Periodically, he will conduct studies to test outcomes, sharing the results of his findings in writing upon completion. Any studies  are done with full disclosure to the patient and only with the patient's consent. Read More