STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Dr. Joseph Muscente, 56, an optometrist at Richmond University Medical Center (RUMC) in West Brighton, has co-authored a textbook on complex ophthalmology cases.

“We all practice in different ways, one in private practice, one with patients who have experienced vision loss, and I work in a Level 1 trauma center,’’ said Muscente, who has worked at RUMC for six years and has 30 years of experience. “We all had our little niche. Mine was the trauma center.”

The book illustrates the variety of uncommon cases in the three unique and common styles of ophthalmic practice.

He said he hopes it serves as a resource for those working in all levels of ophthalmic care.

“I think people in the eye world will definitely benefit from this,” Muscente said. “I think patients could benefit, too. It will give them all the information they need to make educated choices.”

The book’s chapters are divided by anatomy, from the anterior to posterior segment of the eye. Within each chapter, anatomically relevant cases illustrating a unique condition or challenging diagnosis are presented with ancillary testing and images.

Each chapter also contains clinical assessments and opinions that have been highlighted and summarized throughout each case to further illustrate the relevance of the case report and the importance of diagnostic ability for the common clinician.

Working in a trauma center brings new opportunities and fulfillment each day, Muscente said.

“I love it,‘’ he said. ”When someone is in an emergency situation, and you help them, you really feel like you’ve done something good."

Now that the book has been published, Muscente said he’s relieved.

“It was a labor of love,‘’ said Muscente, a product of the State University of New York College of Optometry. ”Proud. Relieved. Those are the two words that come to mind. This has been on the horizon for 15 years and finally came to fruition."