View Annual Report - Jules Stein Eye Institute

Robert alan Goldberg, mD
Karen and Frank Dabby Professor of Ophthalmology
Chief of the Orbital and Ophthalmic
Plastic Surgery Division
Director of the UCLA Orbital Disease Center
Co-Director of the UCLA Aesthetic Center
Member of the Jules Stein Eye Institute
ReseaRch summaRy
Diseases and Therapy
of the Eyelid and Orbit
Research into the various surgical approaches to
Graves orbitopathy (thyroid eye disease) has resulted
in new techniques that include less invasive small
incision surgical approaches. In addition, detailed
clinical information gathered from patients with Graves
orbitopathy is being recorded in a shared database as a
way to understand the natural history and response to
treatment of this multifaceted disease, which is a cause
of significant visual loss and discomfort. Multicenter
studies are underway. Dr. Goldberg is also investigating
the underlying causes of thyroid-related orbitopathy.
The goal of this research is to develop better tests to
monitor disease activity, as well as new treatments to
address the basic cause of the disease.
Research into orbital and eyelid anatomy, currently
in progress, is resulting in improved techniques and
approaches to deep orbital disease. Included is the use
of high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging and
high-resolution dynamic ultrasonography to evaluate
motility problems following trauma and orbital surgery,
and three-dimensional analysis of orbital anatomy.
Improved understanding of eyelid and orbital anatomy is
the basis for developing improved surgical techniques.
Instrumentation and devices that allow less invasive
surgical approaches, such as hyaluronic acid gels, are
being developed and studied. In collaboration with the
Department of Engineering, custom materials for orbital
reconstruction are investigated.
Ongoing research related to the reconstruction of the
ocular surface in severe trauma or cicatrizing disease
includes the design and evaluation of improved instrumentation
and surgery techniques. It is hoped that new
treatment approaches can solve problems caused when
damaged eyelids, conjunctiva, and support tissues fail to
provide a supportive environment for the cornea.
40 Faculty | Goldberg
Public Service
Assistant Vice President of Professional Education,
California Academy of Ophthalmology
Fellow and Chair, International Committee, American Society
of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons
Fellowship Program Director, American Academy of
Cosmetic Surgery and American Society of
Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Editorial Board Member, Archives of Ophthalmology,
Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery,
Aesthetic Surgery Journal, and Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery
Section Editor, American Academy of Ophthalmology,
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