Strutha C. Rouse, II, MD
Providing expert retinal care to Charlotte, NC patients at Horizon Eye Care’s Cotswold and Huntersville locations.
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Meet the Doctor
Dr. Strutha Rouse is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in the diagnosis and surgical management of vitreoretinal diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachments, and macular degeneration. With nearly two decades of experience, he combines scientific precision with a warm, personable approach, ensuring every patient fully understands their condition and treatment options.
His early work in gene therapy and retinal disease has laid the foundation for a distinguished career focused on restoring and preserving vision. Dr. Rouse remains deeply committed to advancing retinal surgery techniques and to mentoring future generations of ophthalmologists.
Expertise & Specialities
Dr. Strutha Rouse is a fellowship-trained vitreoretinal surgeon with nearly two decades of experience in the surgical and medical management of complex retinal disease. His practice spans the full spectrum of vitreoretinal conditions, backed by a strong foundation in research and academic contribution.
Retinal conditions he treats include:
- Diabetic retinopathy — comprehensive management and laser therapy for diabetic eye disease
- Retinal detachments — surgical repair using advanced vitreoretinal techniques
- Vascular abnormalities — diagnosis and treatment of retinal vein and artery occlusion
- Macular degeneration — care for both wet and dry forms of AMD
- Macular holes and puckers — microsurgical repair of vitreomacular traction disorders
- Infectious and noninfectious uveitis — medical and surgical treatment for inflammatory eye conditions
Dr. Rouse’s research background, including early work in gene therapy at Yale, and his contributions to landmark ophthalmology texts ensure patients benefit from the most current and evidence-based retinal care available.
Education & Training
Dr. Rouse earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology, Magna Cum Laude, from Clark Atlanta University as a Howard Hughes and MARC Scholar. He completed his Doctor of Medicine at Emory University School of Medicine as a recipient of the Medical Student Research Fellowship, and conducted research at Yale University School of Medicine on polypeptide drug delivery and intracellular signaling mechanisms.
He completed his ophthalmology residency at McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University and went on to complete a two-year vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at Northwestern University in Chicago, focused on complex retinal diseases and the advanced surgical procedures that define his practice today.
Memberships & Recognition
Dr. Rouse is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the American Society of Retina Specialists, and the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology. He has coauthored papers and textbook chapters on vitreoretinal diseases, including contributions to the renowned Albert & Jakobiec’s Principles and Practice of Ophthalmology.
His published research explores complex inflammatory retinal conditions, including posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy, serpiginous choroiditis, and relentless placoid choroiditis, reflecting a career dedicated to advancing both the science and practice of retinal care.
Insights From Dr. Rouse
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Vision Restored, Lives Transformed
“I transferred from CEENTA to Dr Ryder at Horizon Eye Care-Cotswold. Today was my first appointment. I can say I was pleasantly surprised. I had absolutely no wait time. The office has…”
“Dr. Cameron was friendly yet quite professional. His exam seemed thorough and his recommendations sound. He answered questions I had and took his time - he was not rushed to get to…”
“All staff from checking in at the front desk, throughout my appointment were very helpful. Dr.Minkowski did a great job of explaining options/the process of cataract surgery with me, especially given my…”
“I have been coming to Dr. Minkowski for over 2 years and he is an awesome doctor. He makes you feel welcomed and worry free. He explains everything in detail and will…”
“As always the check up was professional and expert. Dr Wang is a caring professional and I have confidence in her work. This visit had an annoying amount of waiting time which…”
“Conscientious, considerate and very knowledgeable”
“Excellent doctor but long wait”
“Excellent ”
“Dr and the staff that did his final was great. The initial nurse that did his first exam that 2 yrs was rude when i was trying to get some info and…”
“Dr. Biber is always attentive and takes time to answer all my questions.”
“Dr Garcia Santana and her staff were very professional and friendly. .”
“I met with the team for a followup and it was a great experience - listened to my concerns, offered options to address. The rest of the office staff was equally competent…”
“The doctor completed a thorough eval of my eyes to determine if I needed to continue taking a Stereoid that I had been taking for my eyes. He concluded that I no…”
“I have been under Dr.Ryder for the last five years and he and his staff is the best I couldn’t be more thankful and grateful I Love them all!!!!”
“Horizon eye care has always been a professional run facility. Staff are knowledgeable and caring. Dr Minnal is exceptional.”
“Exccellent. Dr. Ryder gave clear answers to my questions and explained the pricedure. Expectations and possible complications well. Everything was smooth, efficent and performed in a friendly atmosphere. All staff were pleasant…”
“Very nice guy, did my procedure quickly and professionally!”
“This was my first visit with Dr. James. I was having a problem with my eye and it required an immediate evaluation. Dr. James spent a lot of time evaluating my eye…”
“Friendly and polite”
“Dr Kaluzny is a Great DOCTOR!”
Conveniently Located Across Charlotte
You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Rouse at any of these two convenient Charlotte-area locations.
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