Retina & Vitreous Treatment

Vitreoretinal surgery has advanced significantly over the past 15 years due to innovations in equipment, laser technology, fiberoptics and the introduction of vitreous substitutes such as purified silicone oil and perflourocarbon gases. These tools have enabled the vitreoretinal surgeon to improve visual function in a variety of diseases.
 

The current retinal and vitreous treatments have resulted in improved management of postoperative infections following cataract and glaucoma surgery. Removal of retained intraocular foreign bodies has been improved as well as management of complicated cataracts, dislocated intraocular lenses and dislocated cataract material into the vitreous cavity. Diagnostic vitrectomy has improved diagnosis of rare intraocular tumors. The surgical management of proliferative diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema and vascular occlusive disease has improved the visual function of many patients who were once deemed inoperable and destined to blindness.

The surgical management of macular abnormalities such as full thickness macular holes, macular epiretinal membranes, and selected forms of macular degeneration are now possible. Many of these conditions may be treated with small-gauge or “suture-less” surgery.

The availability of intravitreal injections, argon, krypton, and dye laser technology has resulted in effective control of diabetic retinopathy, vascular occlusive diseases and the complications of premature birth. The treatment of retinal tears with laser and cryo provided an effective treatment for the prevention of retinal detachment.

Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is a breakdown of the macula in an eye. The macula is a small area in the back of the eye that allows a person to see fine detail. The breakdown of the macula causes decreased central vision, which can affect our distance and near vision. This disease is more common as people get older due to aging of the eye. 

Matthew H. Wood, M.D., recentlnspy sat down to talk with 1011 News in Lincoln about age-related macular degeneration.

Types of Macular Degeneration

There are two types of macular degeneration, which are dry (atrophic) and wet (exudative). Dry macular degeneration is the most common. It is caused by aging and thinning of the macula. Vision loss is primarily gradual. Wet or "exudative" macular degeneration occurs when the blood vessels leak in the back of the eye. This type of macular degeneration is often more rapid and severe.

Treatment of Macular Degeneration

Unfortunately, there is no treatment at this time for dry macular degeneration, but there is a lot of ongoing research regarding this subtype. Wet macular degeneration, however, can be treated in the early stages. There have been a number of recent exciting developments in the treatment of wet macular degeneration. We currently participate in cutting edge research, treatment, and clinical trials in the treatment of wet macular degeneration. Current treatments available outside of clinical trials include visudyne photodynamic laser treatment, Lucentis injections, and Avastin injections.

Pediatric Ophthalmology

At Eye Surgical Associates, we work to understand from a child's perspective how vision problems can affect the ability to run, play and read. Our doctors understand how to overcome a child’s fear of “going to the doctor.” They take the time to ask questions and really listen so they can provide the best possible treatment.

We understand the importance of catching vision problems early, before they begin to affect schoolwork and other activities. Our doctors understand how precious a child's sight is and are committed to providing the very best care.
 

 
Strabismus

Strabismus means that one eye is not lining up with the other. The misalignment may involve wandering of the eye in, out, up or, down. Sometimes strabismus is present just when a child is ill or tired, and sometimes it is present all the time. Strabismus is usually caused by a muscle imbalance within the eye.

Amblyopia

Amblyopia involves the underdevelopment of an eye during early childhood. This is a very common eye disease among children that can be corrected if caught early. Treatment of an amblyopic eye usually needs to be done in children nine years old and younger.

We are a proud member of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus. Please click the logo to visit their website.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a progressive disease of the optic nerve that is a leading cause of blindness in this country. Because early in the disease there are no symptoms, glaucoma is often referred to as "the sneak thief of sight." In the majority of patients with glaucoma, the pressure inside the eye is elevated. Medical, surgical and laser treatments are available to lower the intraocular pressure and lower the risk of optic nerve damage. With early detection and treatment, vision loss and blindness from glaucoma can be prevented.

What are the risk factors for glaucoma?

Elevated intraocular pressure, advancing age, African ancestry, family history, history of ocular injury, extreme nearsightedness and chronic use of corticosteroid medicines are the major risk factors. Diabetes and high blood pressure are minor risk factors.

What are the different types of glaucoma?

There are several different types of glaucoma, all of which have progressive optic nerve injury and visual field loss in common. Except for Normal Tension Glaucoma, all are associated with elevated intraocular pressure.
 

Types of Glaucoma

Angle Closure Glaucoma

Sudden closure of the drainage angle results in a rapid increase in pressure in the eye. Symptoms include severe eye pain, blurred vision, haloes around lights, nausea and vomiting. Treatment is needed immediately to minimize optic nerve damage. Angle closure glaucoma is usually treated with laser or microsurgery. Patients that are farsighted, especially those with cataracts or Asian ancestry are at risk for this type of glaucoma.

Congenital Glaucoma

This rare type of glaucoma occurs in infants due to incomplete formation of the drainage channels in the eye during the prenatal period. Medication and surgery can also help treat this type of glaucoma.

Exfoliative Glaucoma

This common type of secondary glaucoma is due to clogging of the drainage channels by an abnormal white substance that is deposited throughout the eye. Elevated intraocular pressure is treated with medication, laser or surgery.

Glaucoma Suspect

This diagnosis refers to patients believed to be at high risk for developing glaucoma or in whom glaucoma is suspected but cannot be confirmed. A person may be considered a glaucoma suspect on the basis of high intraocular pressure, a suspicious appearance of the optic nerve or visual field, or the presence of risk factors.

Normal Tension Glaucoma

In this type of glaucoma, characteristic optic nerve damage and visual field loss occur at pressures within the normal range. Studies have confirmed that lowering pressures further with medications, laser or filtering surgery results in a lower risk of disease progression.

Open Angle Glaucoma

Open angle glaucoma is the most common type of chronic glaucoma in which the intraocular pressure is high but the drainage angle is open and normal in appearance. Elevated pressure in the eye damages the optic nerve and results in permanent vision loss. OAG can be treated with eye drop and oral medications, laser and filtering surgery.

Pigmentary Glaucoma

This type of glaucoma is a form of secondary glaucoma that occurs when pigment granules from the iris (the colored part of the eye) are rubbed off and clog the drainage channels in the eye, causing the pressure to rise. Medication, laser or surgery may be used for treatment.

Secondary Glaucoma
Secondary glaucoma occurs as a result of an eye injury, inflammation, tumor, cataracts, diabetes or vascular disease. Sometimes, medications such as steroids can cause secondary glaucoma. Treatment is directed toward both the underlying problem as well as lowering pressure with standard glaucoma therapies.