In the episode of The History of Eyecare, host Dr. J. Morgan Micheletti engages in a captivating discussion with world renowned ophthalmologist, Dr. Cathleen McCabe. Tracing an extraordinary arc from an undergraduate degree in Marine Biology studying sea turtle physiology, Dr. McCabe shares her decision to pivot towards eyecare.

Dr. McCabe recounts her time in medical school and her residency at the prestigious Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. While her initial focus leaned towards the retina, her true passion emerged in the form of cataract and refractive surgery, where she found joy in offering immediate and dramatic improvements in vision to her patients.

A key highlight of the discussion is Dr. McCabe’s innovative “belt loop” technique. Inspired by the Yamane technique and devised in a hands-on lab setting, this revolutionary procedure allows for the repositioning and stable fixation of dislocated intraocular lenses. Dr. McCabe considers this accomplishment one of the most satisfying of her career, given its widespread utility for eye surgeons across the globe.

Throughout the episode, Dr. McCabe’s commitment to her profession, her dedication to continual learning, and her knack for inventive problem-solving are clear. This episode paints a vibrant portrait of a true pioneer in the field of ophthalmology.