Roger F. Steinert, MD
Irvine, CA
The preface to the second edition, published in 2004 but written and edited in 2002-03, paid special tribute to the pioneers of phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation who founded and nurtured the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. ASCRS became a force that overcame tradition and regulation, launching a revolution in cataract surgery and vastly improving the quality of life of cataract patients world-wide. Special recognition was given to the singular contributions of Charles Kelman, MD.
In the following years, we have lost the ultimate innovator in our specialty. Highly controversial in his younger years, Charlie, as he was known to thousands of friends and colleagues, lived long enough to know that his contributions were universally recognized. He was always supportive of younger surgeons striving to make further progress. We all miss you, Charlie, and we are the poorer for your early passing.
This third edition follows the mission that this textbook has always followed: to be comprehensive, thorough, and balanced. While the chapters stand on their own, extensive references also assist the reader in pursuing a subject further. The rapid pace of innovation continues, and the reader must always follow recent advances that will not be reflected in these pages.
The third edition is thoroughly updated, and several new chapters have been added as well as extensive revisions of the previous edition. One completely new teaching medium has been added: a DVD collection of relevant operative video clips to illustrate the surgical techniques already captured in the written word and figures. Thirty seven separate video segments illustrate many maneuvers, ranging from the basics through the most advanced.