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…”
“Dr James was very communicative and thorough in his exam and left us feeling well prepared for new glasses.”
“Efficient, friendly!”
“I appreciated that Dr. Tomasko took as much time as I needed to explain my options & answer all my questions.”
“I was very impressed with Dr. Minkowski. He was very cordial and professional and obviously knowledgeable. I have very complicated eye issues and he had me do all the tests and did…”
“I've been Dr. James' patient for about 8 or 9 years. He's thorough, genuinely interested in eye health, collaborative with care options and very efficient. I'm very satisfied!”
“Really appreciated the details/explanation about the examination and results.”
“I was completely satisfied with my visit. Everything was explained clearly and questions were asked. I love the communication process. TY”
“Great dialogue in my health and felt he was listening to my feedback. Thorough exam but really efficient.”
“Check-in staff who arrives at 7 to set up for. Day, check-out male staff, Fiona, specialist who conducts comparative studies with machine are exemplary. Dr. Minkowski is highly professional and efficient.”
“Overall great experience!”
“Took less than hour. First time meeting Dr James. Accurate and knowledgeable. Asked questions..”
“Dr Tomasko made the whole blepharoplasty a piece of cake from start to finish. I felt cared for by confident, experienced hands.”
“Excellent provider care! Dr. Garcia is knowledgeable patient and careful. I trust her with the health of my eyes and highly recommend her.”
“Attention to details about my eyes with comparison fr last years visit to this year. Professional in every way. His Assistant sat in the room transcribing Dr Ryder’s comments. It took me…”
“Had a good visit.”
“Excellent experience! The surgery center staff made things easy, the procedure stayed on schedule, and Dr.Kaluzny’s bedside manner was fantastic. Results are excellent. Dr. Kaluzny, not his nurse called me the evening…”
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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