726. Alston responds that Dr. Jaffe's theory that
horizontal placement is safer was published in his textbooks and peer reviewed
journals and had been tested and was accepted by the medical community, as
illustrated by the testimony of the other experts who agreed that horizontal
placement is the accepted technique, is taught, and is preferred. Indeed, each
expert who testified on this subject, except Dr. Marvelli, stated that
horizontal placement of the lens gives a stable anchor and is the preferred
technique. Additionally, Alston points out, Dr. Jaffe relied upon his
"unique knowledge and experience in lens implantation surgery," as
well as his previously written textbooks, to support his opinions.
Dr. Jaffe acknowledged that he was aware of no specific studies comparing the
frequency of dislocations using the superior approach versus the horizontal
approach. He was likewise aware of noof which concerned lens
implantation procedures. He is a clinical professor at Palmer Eye Institute of
the University of Miami, and visiting professor at various institutions around
the world. He is a member of several professional associations relating to lens
implant surgeries, some international, including being founder and president of
the American Intraocular and Implant Society, and has been a practicing, board
certified ophthalmologist since 1950. (8)
Although there must be some basis for expert opinion offered to show its
reliability, the criteria for assessing reliability will vary depending on the
type of expert and the nature of the evidence. Gammill, 972 S.W.2d at
726-27. In some instances, "[e]xperience alone may provide a sufficient
basis for an expert's opinion in some cases . . . ." Id. at 726.
Here, the record supports Dr. Jaffe's reliance, not only on his