Dr. Dimitri Azar is a physician scientist whose research encompasses basic science and development of novel surgical techniques. He directs National Eye Institute funded research exploring the mechanisms that prevent corneal neovascularization, a condition in which undesired blood vessels develop in the cornea, usually in response to a lack of oxygen. This vascularization process must be stopped, or at least diminished, if vision is to be preserved. Dr. Azar has been involved in the practice and research of refractive surgery for more than fifteen years and has developed novel techniques and mathematical modeling to improve patient outcomes in refractive and other corneal and anterior segment surgeries. He was a key contributor to the clinical trials and studies for FDA approval of the VISX excimer laser and was the first surgeon to perform the LASEK procedure, now performed routinely around the world. Dr. Azar’s research is widely published in leading clinical and academic ophthalmology journals. He has authored and edited influential books about ophthalmic surgical techniques, the latest technology, patient selection, limitations and complications.
Dr. Azar’s research program adds a new dimension to the outstanding vision science conducted by researchers at the University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary and UIC Department of Ophthalmology. The UIC vision research program leads all Chicago Universities in National Institutes of Health funding. The number of research faculty holding a PhD in basic science disciplines sets the UIC program apart from most other ophthalmology departments. A recent $6-million grant from NEI to a department investigator will lay the foundation for development of a retina bypass system to restore vision. The far-reaching implications of this project, and others now underway in the department continue the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary tradition of embracing new discoveries and applying them to ophthalmologic practice.
