RetinUp Podcast

RetinUp Podcast, LLC
  • 5.0 (1)
  • MEDICINE

RetinUp is a podcast exploring the latest in retina science and ophthalmology. Hosted by John Kitchens, MD, and Scott Krzywonos, each episode features expert insights, research breakthroughs, and practical discussions designed for ophthalmologists, retina specialists, and vision science researchers.

  1. ASP7317 for Geographic Atrophy | Plus, Moo Adam, MD, on IV-Free Surgery

    MAY 14

    ASP7317 for Geographic Atrophy | Plus, Moo Adam, MD, on IV-Free Surgery

    Guests: Marci English, MPH – Senior Vice President, Biopharma and Ophthalmology Development, Astellas Pharma | Erin Kimbrel, PhD – President, Astellas Institute for Regenerative Medicine (AIRM); Head of Cell and Gene Therapy Research, Astellas Pharma | Murtaza Adam, MD – Chair of Clinical Research, Colorado Retina Associates Hosts: John Kitchens, MD, Scott Krzywonos Show Summary Recorded on the final day of ARVO 2026 in Denver, John Kitchens, MD, invites Marci English, MPH, and Erin Kimbrel, PhD, from Astellas to review some of the most significant cell therapy data to emerge in retina in recent years: the phase 1b interim results for ASP7317, an investigational RPE cell therapy that showed functional visual acuity gains in patients with advanced GA. The conversation covers what made earlier cell therapies fail, what's different now, the path to a registration trial, and two additional pipeline programs: ASP2767 (a gene therapy for glaucoma) and ASP2020 (an immune-evasive RPE cell therapy for Stargardt disease). The Vitreoretinal View segment features Moo Adam, MD, who has been performing IV-free vitreoretinal surgery since 2018, now accounting for roughly 70% of his cases. He breaks down patient selection, practical logistics, and why the approach could serve as a bridge to office-based surgery. John and Scott then cover the realities of office-based surgery and speculate what needs to change for retina surgeons to embrace office-based surgery. Hosts: John Kitchens, MD, Scott Krzywonos Topics Covered ASP7317 Phase 1b Interim Results ASP7317: investigational RPE cell therapy derived from human embryonic stem cells, delivered via subretinal transplantation in advanced GA secondary to AMDThree dose cohorts with severity stratification; BCVA improvements observed in multiple patients, including gains of 2 linesGA lesion area stabilized in treated eyes; only 1 month of immunosuppression requiredMechanism: likely a combination of cell replacement, phagocytic debris clearance, and trophic factor secretionWhy earlier RPE transplantation attempts failed: engraftment and immune rejection; advances in differentiation technique and surgical delivery have changed the picture Pipeline & Path Forward Astellas plans to engage regulators in the coming months with the goal of moving directly to Phase 3; functional BCVA endpoints expected to be central to the registrational designComplement inhibitors and ASP7317 seen as complementary across the GA spectrum: slowing progression in early disease, potentially restoring function in advanced diseaseASP2020: iPS-derived RPE cell therapy for Stargardt disease, Phase 1 expected in 2026; EVOLVE natural history study ongoingASP2767: AAV gene therapy for neuroprotection of retinal ganglion cells in glaucoma; IND filing anticipated shortly Vitreoretinal View: IV-Free Surgery (Moo Adam, MD) Oral sedation plus sub-Tenon's block replaces IV anesthesia in approximately 70% of Dr. Adam's cases; in practice since 2018 with published safety dataPatient benefits: no fasting, no anesthesiologist copay, no GLP-1 or anticoagulation concerns; appropriate patients can drive themselves homePatient selection is key, and active patient communication during surgery is essential Office-based Surgery in 2026 Office-based surgery context: the financial model isn't there yet; no facility fee reimbursement in the office setting, and organized ophthalmology advocacy has stalled Key Takeaways ASP7317 Phase 1b data showed cell-based therapy led to functional BCVA gains in advanced GA.Astellas views complement inhibitors and ASP7317 as complementary tools, not competitors, across the GA disease spectrum.IV-free vitreoretinal surgery is practical, patient-friendly, and already in routine use — but the path to office-based surgery still requires a reimbursement solution. Credits Production & Marketing: Laura Brown | Business Operations: Liz Hogan Listen at RetinUp.com | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

    49 min
  2. Clorinda Walley, President & CEO of Good Days, on Patient Assistance Funding | Plus, Image of the Month with Prof. Paulo Stanga: Papillophlebitis on the Silverstone RGB

    APR 30

    Clorinda Walley, President & CEO of Good Days, on Patient Assistance Funding | Plus, Image of the Month with Prof. Paulo Stanga: Papillophlebitis on the Silverstone RGB

    Guests: Clorinda Walley – President & CEO, Good Days | Prof. Paulo Stanga – Founder & Chief Medical Officer, The Retina Clinic London; Professor of Ophthalmology, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology Show Summary This episode of RetinUp pulls back the curtain on Good Days, one of the most important — and least understood — resources in retina practice. Clorinda Walley, Good Days President & CEO, joins John and Scott to explain how the organization works, how it's funded, who qualifies, and what retina specialists can do to help sustain it. The conversation covers everything from the mechanics of fund allocation to the policy threats currently on Good Days's radar. The episode then moves to the inaugural Image of the Month, featuring Prof. Paulo Stanga, who presents a case of papillophlebitis initially referred as a branch retinal vein occlusion. The case demonstrates how ultra-widefield RGB imaging with the Optos Silverstone RGB changed the clinical picture before the patient ever entered the exam room. Hosts: John Kitchens, MD, and Scott Krzywonos Topics Covered Good Days in 2026 (Clorinda Walley) What is Good Days?Types of assistance (copay, premium, and travel support across multiple disease categories) and who is eligible for supportFunding sources for Good DaysHow retinal vascular disease assistance operates separately from GA assistance What happens when a program is funded—and when funding runs outGood Days’ advocacy in DC and beyondGetting your patients enrolled in Good Days Image of the Month: Papillophlebitis (Prof. Paulo Stanga) Case presentation: patient referred for a clinical trial with presumed branch retinal vein occlusionUltra-widefield RGB imaging with the Optos Silverstone upon referral Final diagnosis: papillophlebitis Clinical workflow advantages of pre-visit imaging Key Takeaways Good Days is a critical safety net for Medicare patients who cannot afford their retinal treatments, but its programs depend entirely on ongoing donations — funding can close without warning.Retina specialists can directly support Good Days by getting on the notification list, posting donation signage, and advocating with pharma partners for continued funding.Retina practice as we know it is supported by Good Days—but Good Days itself is only around as long as their donation base shows up. Ultra-widefield imaging captured early in an appointment changes clinical workflow: Prof. Stanga's case demonstrates that RGB imaging can redirect a diagnosis before the physician enters the room.True-color RGB ultra-widefield imaging with swept-source OCT provides a more complete picture of the retina than two-channel systems, particularly at the vitreoretinal interface and in patients with media opacity. Sponsors RetinUp is an editorially independent podcast supported with advertising. This episode is sponsored by Ocular Therapeutix. Learn more at OCUTX.com. This episode is sponsored by Genentech, maker of Vabysmo (faricimab-svoa). Watch the Purple Chair series at Vabysmo-HCP.com. The images featured in this episode were captured using the Optos Silverstone RGB. Learn more about Silverstone RGB at Optos.com/products/silverstone. Credits Production & Marketing: Laura Brown | Business Operations: Liz Hogan Listen at RetinUp.com | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

    34 min
  3. Darius Moshfeghi, MD, on the SOL-1 Study | Plus, Heads-Up 3D Visualization and Medicare Cut Concerns

    APR 16

    Darius Moshfeghi, MD, on the SOL-1 Study | Plus, Heads-Up 3D Visualization and Medicare Cut Concerns

    Show Summary This episode of RetinUp opens with a timely policy discussion between the hosts about proposed Medicare and Medicaid funding cuts, exploring what they could mean for retina practices and their most vulnerable patients. The Vitreoretinal View segment features John Kitchens, MD, sharing his decade-long experience with heads-up 3D visualization. He reviews what makes it transformative for training and surgical outcomes, why widespread adoption has been slower than expected, and what might finally tip the scales. In the main interview, Stanford's Darius Moshfeghi, MD, joins Scott and John to break down the SOL-1 Phase 3 superiority study on Axpaxli (OTX-TKI), Ocular Therapeutix's investigational bioresorbable intravitreal hydrogel incorporating axitinib. He discusses his unique role as an independent rescue monitor, explains the study's novel design, unpacks what the superiority outcome over aflibercept actually means for clinical practice, and previews what the SOL-R study may tell us next. Hosts: John Kitchens, MD, Scott Krzywonos Guests: Darius Moshfeghi, MD – Chief, Retina Division; Professor, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine Topics Covered SOL-1 Study: Design, Findings & Context (Darius Moshfeghi, MD) The independent rescue monitor role: what it is, how it worked, and why it was created for SOL-1SOL-1’s study design, superiority outcome, and floaters data (and why they were not clinically concerning)Superiority vs. non-inferiority: implications for labeling, step therapy avoidance, and physician adoptionHow retina specialists could integrate Axpaxli into their practice protocolsHow SOL-R differs from SOL-1, and what SOL-R might show us Vitreoretinal View: Heads-Up 3D Visualization Origins of heads-up 3D: TruVision and Alcon NGenuityZeiss and Heidelberg heads-up visualization systemsWhy John adopted NGenuity early and continues to use itKey benefits: surgical video quality, fellow training, and real-time coachingCost considerations and other reasons why adoption has remained lowThe anterior segment opportunity: how cataract surgery economics may drive broader uptake Medicare & Managed Care Policy Concerns Proposed $200 billion in federal budget cuts and the potential impact on Medicare and MedicaidRisk of increased step therapy, Avastin-first policies, and tiered drug coverageAccess-to-care concerns for Medicaid patients, particularly at academic medical centersThe difference between traditional Medicare and managed Medicare (Medicare Advantage)Historical context: past Congressional threats to Medicare reimbursement and how they've played out Key Takeaways The independent rescue monitor role pioneered in SOL-1 reflects a novel, collaborative approach to adjudicating vision-threatening events in clinical trials.Physicians will likely adapt AXPAXLI into existing treat-and-extend protocols; SOL-R's more traditional design may generate data that resonates more directly with clinical practice.SOL-1 is the first superiority study in retina/ophthalmology, demonstrating that a single injection of Axpaxli (Ocular Therapeutix) outperforms aflibercept 2mg (Regeneron) on vision maintenance — with durability extending well beyond current approved dosing intervals.Heads-up 3D visualization offers meaningful advantages for surgical training and video quality, but high costs for integrated systems and declining surgery center reimbursements continue to limit adoption.Proposed federal budget cuts to Medicare and Medicaid represent a real threat to retina practices and patient access, particularly for drug coverage and underserved populations. Credits Production & Marketing: Laura Brown | Business Operations: Liz Hogan

    45 min
  4. 2026 Vit Buckle Society Meeting Preview

    APR 2

    2026 Vit Buckle Society Meeting Preview

    This episode of RetinUp is a special deep dive into the Vit-Buckle Society (VBS), tracing its origins and previewing what’s ahead for the 2026 meeting. In the first segment, Ross Lakhanpal, MD, shares the founding story of VBS — from informal dinner discussions among fellows to one of the most distinctive and influential meetings in retina. What began as an effort to preserve surgical retina education has evolved into a meeting known for its creativity, honesty, and strong sense of community. The episode then shifts to Aleksandra Ratchitskaya, MD, who outlines the agenda and structure of the 2026 VBS meeting, including expanded programming for trainees, new educational tracks, and the continued emphasis on open discussion and real-world clinical challenges. Across both conversations, a consistent theme emerges: VBS succeeds because it prioritizes authenticity, collaboration, and the full experience of being a retina specialist — not just the science. Hosts: John Kitchens, MD Scott Krzywonos Guests: Ross Lakhanpal, MD, FACS – Founding Member, Vit-Buckle Society (VBS); Retina Care Center (Maryland) Aleksandra Ratchitskaya, MD, – President, Vit-Buckle Society (VBS) Topics CoveredThe Founding of VBS (Ross Lakhanpal, MD,)Origins in 2004–2006 among fellows seeking more surgical retina focusEarly dinner meetings piggybacking on major conferences (ASRS, AAO)Initial industry support from Bausch + Lomb and later AlconThe role of key mentors including Timothy Murray, MD, and Harry Flynn, MD,Transition from informal gatherings to a standalone national meetingEarly challenges with organization, funding, and defining a clear vision Building a Distinctive Retina MeetingIntroduction of debates, live surgery, and unconventional formatsThe importance of creativity, energy, and peer-driven programmingBalancing innovation with professionalism as the meeting grewThe role of medical conference planners (MCPI) in scaling the eventHow VBS differentiated itself from traditional, science-heavy meetings Leadership Transition and GrowthDecision to hand leadership to the next generationEvolution of programming under new leadershipIncreased focus on year-round education, social media, and engagementCurrent leadership structure and succession planningWhy maintaining a strong culture and relationships is critical to continuity 2026 VBS Meeting Preview (Aleksandra Ratchitskaya, MD,)Expanded Thursday programming for fellows, trainees, and early-career specialists“VBS Silver” sessions for more experienced physiciansFellows Forum-style competitions, including surgical video presentationsAwards, including Lifetime Achievement and Mentorship recognitionDedicated sessions on practice management, advocacy, and wellness Signature VBS ElementsSurgical case discussions focused on complications and real-world challengesDebates on controversial clinical and professional topicsA strong emphasis on honesty and open dialogueSocial programming built around the Alice in Wonderland themeNetworking that reflects the collaborative, peer-driven culture of VBS Key TakeawaysVBS was founded to address a gap in surgical retina education and has grown into a broader platform for professional development.The meeting’s success is rooted in its culture of openness, creativity, and peer collaboration.Leadership transition to younger physicians has strengthened the organization and expanded its reach.VBS continues to stand out by addressing the full scope of retina practice, including clinical, personal, and professional challenges. CreditsProduction & Marketing: Laura Brown Business Operations: Liz Hogan Listen at RetinUp.com | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

    34 min
  5. Emergency Pod: Biogen to Acquire Apellis

    MAR 31

    Emergency Pod: Biogen to Acquire Apellis

    In this breaking news episode, John Kitchens, MD, and Scott Krzywonos react to the announcement that Biogen will acquire Apellis Pharmaceuticals for $5.6 billion, an approximately 8x revenue multiple driven largely by Syfovre (pegcetacoplan), which accounts for the majority of Apellis’ srevenue. The discussion focuses on what this acquisition could mean for the future of geographic atrophy (GA) treatment, including concerns around strategic priorities, industry support programs, and whether Biogen will maintain Apellis’ current momentum in retina. Bottom LineThis acquisition has the potential to reshape the geographic atrophy landscape — but its success will depend on whether Biogen maintains Apellis’ clinical focus, physician relationships, and commitment to innovation in retina. Hosts: John Kitchens, MD Scott Krzywonos Listen now at RetinUp.com or wherever you get your podcasts.

    9 min
  6. Marion Munk on Photobiomodulation in AMD | Plus Oliver Hvidt on Norlase and Laser Technology

    MAR 19

    Marion Munk on Photobiomodulation in AMD | Plus Oliver Hvidt on Norlase and Laser Technology

    This episode of RetinUp combines clinical innovation and device engineering, starting with a discussion on photobiomodulation (PBM) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), followed by a deep dive into the future of ophthalmic laser technology. First, Marion Munk, MD, shares her extensive real-world experience using the Valeda Light Delivery System (Alcon) for PBM, including patient selection, treatment protocols, and functional outcomes. With over 300 patients treated, she provides one of the most comprehensive perspectives currently available on how PBM is being implemented in clinical practice. The episode then shifts to Oliver Hvidt, co-founder and CEO of Norlase, who explains how his training in economics led him to develop a next-generation, portable laser systems. The conversation explores how engineering, economics, and workflow design intersect to improve efficiency in retina practices. The episode opens with a brief discussion on optometric scope expansion in Kansas, where John explains that fears surrounding scope changes may be overblown. Hosts: John Kitchens, MD Scott Krzywonos Guests: Marion Munk, MD – Medical Retina & Uveitis Specialist, Gutblick Group (Switzerland) Oliver Hvidt – Co-Founder & CEO, Norlase Topics CoveredScope Expansion in OptometryKansas legislation expanding optometric procedural scopeReal-world experience from Kentucky following similar changesWhy expanded scope has had limited impact on retina practiceThe evolving role of optometry as general ophthalmology declines Photobiomodulation in AMD (Marion Munk, MD)Differences between general “red light therapy” and medical PBMThe Valeda Light Delivery System and evidence from LIGHTSITE trialsReal-world outcomes from 300+ treated patientsIdeal patient profiles (drusen-predominant AMD, non–center-involving GA)Reported benefits: improved dark adaptation, contrast, and daily function~50–60% of patients reporting subjective improvementChallenges in correlating functional gains with OCT or structural changesImplementation strategies: standardized imaging, AI-assisted analysis, and patient trackingWhen to continue vs. discontinue treatment in non-responders Norlase and the Future of Laser Technology (Oliver Hvidt)Founding story: from engineering collaboration to ophthalmic applicationRedesigning laser architecture using semiconductor technologyMiniaturization and portability (headset-based indirect laser systems)MEMS-based pattern scanning vs. traditional galvanometer systemsDesigning equipment around workflow efficiency, not just performanceAddressing increasing patient volume with limited clinical resourcesFunding challenges in a post-COVID, AI-dominated investment landscapeFuture roadmap: software-driven upgrades and multi-specialty applications Key TakeawaysPhotobiomodulation is gaining traction, but patient selection and expectation-setting are critical.Functional improvements in AMD may not always correlate with structural imaging.Device innovation in retina is increasingly focused on efficiency, portability, and workflow integration.The future of ophthalmic technology will depend as much on practice economics as clinical performance. Sponsor AcknowledgmentThis episode includes a segment made possible with support from Alcon, featuring technologies like UNITY VCS designed to enhance surgical performance and efficiency. Credits: Production & Marketing: Laura Brown Business Operations: Liz Hogan Listen at RetinUp.com | Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

    35 min
  7. RetinUp Mailbag – Cash Pay Models, Emerging Therapies, and Tech Adoption During Reimbursement Reductions

    MAR 5

    RetinUp Mailbag – Cash Pay Models, Emerging Therapies, and Tech Adoption During Reimbursement Reductions

    Hosts: John Kitchens, MD Scott Krzywonos Show SummaryIn this special RetinUp Mailbag episode, John Kitchens and Scott Krzywonos answer listener questions from retina specialists around the country about three issues: cash-pay diversification, the future of emerging therapies in light of payer realities, and how practices can realistically adopt expensive new technology as reimbursements decline. The conversation explores whether concierge retina models could emerge in certain markets, how insurers may respond to high-cost innovations like gene therapy and tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and what practical frameworks practices use when deciding whether to invest in new surgical or imaging equipment. Throughout the episode, a central theme emerges: innovation in retina continues to accelerate, but reimbursement pressure is forcing practices to rethink business models, technology adoption, and long-term sustainability. Topics Covered Cash-Pay Diversification in RetinaListener question from Jed Assam, MD (VRA Vision, Sioux Falls, South Dakota) Whether concierge retina could work, and whether VIP-style care models might translate to retina practicesPotential cash-pay services such as photobiomodulation (PBM) therapyOperational considerations for scheduling concierge visits separately from standard clinic flowGeographic limitations for cash-pay models in smaller markets Future Therapies and Insurance CoverageListener question from Deepak Sambhara, MD (Eye Clinic of Wisconsin, Wausau, Wisconsin) How payers may respond to upcoming therapies such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors and gene therapyThe likelihood of step therapy policies changingPricing challenges for long-duration treatmentsEconomic implications of one-time gene therapy approaches Technology Adoption in an Era of Declining ReimbursementListener question from Priya Vakharia, MD (Retina Vitreous Associates of Florida, Tampa, Florida) How practices decide when to adopt new surgical technologyCost pressures from declining surgical reimbursementEvaluating investments in surgical and imaging equipment The potential role of AI-driven analysis in improving efficiency and clinical decision-making Key TakeawaysConcierge-style retina care may be viable in affluent metropolitan markets but remains niche.Insurance economics will strongly influence how quickly new therapies reach patients.Practices increasingly rely on ROI analysis and efficiency gains when deciding whether to adopt new technologies.Artificial intelligence may help practices manage growing data complexity, though its financial model remains uncertain. Have a Question for the Next Mailbag?RetinUp listeners can submit questions by sending a voice memo to info@retinup.com, leaving a comment on YouTube, or connecting with John and Scott on LinkedIn. Sign up for our newsletter at RetinUp.com.

    29 min
  8. Retina Wealth Strategy ft. David Mandell; ASRS Biz Recap + Maria Berrocal on Surgical Tech

    FEB 19

    Retina Wealth Strategy ft. David Mandell; ASRS Biz Recap + Maria Berrocal on Surgical Tech

    Hosts: John Kitchens, MD Scott Krzywonos Guests: Thomas Stone, MD – Program Committee Chair, ASRS Business of Retina Meeting Maria Berrocal, MD – CEO, Drs. Berrocal & Associates; Associate Professor, University of Puerto Rico David Mandell, JD, MBA – Co-Founder & Partner, OJM Group Show SummaryRetinUp brings together three distinct but interconnected conversations focused on the business, surgical innovation, and financial realities of retina practice. First, Tom Stone joins the show to preview the upcoming ASRS Business of Retina Meeting in Houston (March 20–22). He outlines this year’s agenda, which covers staffing strategies, AI in practice operations, drug inventory management, coding updates, and a new full-day clinical trials workshop designed to help practices launch research programs from the ground up. Next, in the Vitreoretinal View segment, Maria Berrocal discusses her experience using the Alcon UNITY VCS system, focusing on flow-based vitrectomy, 30,000 cpm performance, and the evolution of 27-gauge surgery. She also shares early observations comparing case times and complication rates versus legacy systems. For the long-form interview, David Mandell of the OJM Group offers a structured framework for physician wealth management across career stages—covering early-career planning, mid-career tax strategy and asset protection, and retirement-phase portfolio positioning. Topics CoveredASRS Business of Retina Meeting The 2026 meeting agenda: staffing, AI implementation, and drug inventory strategyCoding updates and compliance (including Modifier -25)Launch of the Clinical Trials Workshop (capped at 80 participants, so register soon!)Dedicated business curriculum for fellows Vitreoretinal View – Surgical Innovation Transition from vacuum-based to flow-based vitrectomy on Alcon UNITY VCS27-gauge adoption and surface vitrectomy precisionReduced instrument frustrations Physician Wealth Strategy Why retina specialists are unique when it comes to wealth strategyEarly-career debt balancing, disability protection, and lifestyle creepMid-career tax optimization and liability protectionRetirement red-zone portfolio repositioningAssessing private equity offers Key TakeawaysThe Business of Retina Meeting is will be in Houston March 20-22. Registration link below.Flow-based vitrectomy may meaningfully refine 27-gauge surgery.Financial discipline—not peak income—is what ultimately determines long-term security. Resources MentionedASRS Business of Retina Meeting – Register HereOJM Group – ojmgroup.comUse the code RetinUp26 to get a free copy of the book Wealth Planning for the Modern Physician: Residency to Retirement at the OJM Bookstore.

    52 min
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About

RetinUp is a podcast exploring the latest in retina science and ophthalmology. Hosted by John Kitchens, MD, and Scott Krzywonos, each episode features expert insights, research breakthroughs, and practical discussions designed for ophthalmologists, retina specialists, and vision science researchers.

Information

  • Creator
    RetinUp Podcast, LLC
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 RetinUp Podcast, LLC
  • Show Website
    RetinUp Podcast

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