Advanced Retina Care

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It is a leading cause of vision loss in people aged 50 and older, impacting millions of individuals worldwide. Approximately 80% of AMD cases are the "dry" form, which progresses more slowly, while the "wet" form, though less common, causes more rapid and severe vision loss. Early detection and treatment, are crucial for identifying and treating AMD before significant vision impairment occurs.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is treated by a retina specialist using innovative treatments such as anti-VEGF injections, laser therapy, and, for advanced dry AMD, medications like pegcetacoplan and avacincaptad pegol to slow the progression of vision loss and maintain quality of life.

Diabetic eye disease is a group of eye conditions that can affect individuals with diabetes, potentially leading to vision loss or blindness. The primary conditions include diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma. Diabetic retinopathy, the most common cause of vision loss among people with diabetes, occurs when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina. Approximately 1 in 3 people with diabetes over the age of 40 show signs of diabetic retinopathy. Regular eye exams, good blood sugar control, and early treatment can significantly reduce the risk of severe vision complications from diabetic eye disease.

Diabetic eye disease is treated by a retina specialist using advanced techniques such as anti-VEGF injections, laser therapy, and, in some cases, surgical procedures to manage diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema, helping to preserve and improve vision.

A retinal detachment occurs when the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, pulls away from its normal position, leading to blurry vision and, if untreated, potential vision loss. A retinal tear is a precursor to detachment, where the retina develops a hole or rip, often due to age-related changes in the eye's vitreous gel. Common symptoms include sudden flashes of light, an increase in floaters, and a shadow or curtain over part of your vision.

A retina specialist treats these conditions using advanced techniques such as laser therapy (photocoagulation), cryopexy (freezing therapy), or surgical procedures like pneumatic retinopexy, vitrectomy, and scleral buckling to reattach the retina and restore vision. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent permanent vision loss, so if you experience any warning signs, seek immediate care.

Macular Holes: A macular hole is a small break in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. It often occurs as part of the natural aging process when the vitreous gel inside the eye shrinks and pulls on the retina. Symptoms may include blurry, wavy, or distorted central vision, and as the hole enlarges, a dark spot may appear. Macular holes are typically treated with a surgical procedure called a vitrectomy, during which the vitreous is removed and a gas bubble is inserted to help the hole close and restore vision.

Macular Puckers: A macular pucker, also known as an epiretinal membrane, is a condition where scar tissue forms on the macula, causing the retina to wrinkle or bulge. This can lead to wavy or distorted vision and difficulty seeing fine details. While mild cases might not require treatment, more severe symptoms may be managed with a vitrectomy, where the scar tissue is removed, helping to improve or stabilize vision.

Retinal vascular occlusions occur when blood flow to the retina is blocked, leading to sudden and potentially severe vision loss. There are two main types: retinal artery occlusion (RAO) and retinal vein occlusion (RVO). RAO involves a blockage in the arteries supplying blood to the retina, with central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) generally having a worse prognosis than branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO). RVO, on the other hand, occurs when the veins responsible for draining blood from the retina become blocked, leading to bleeding, swelling, and reduced blood supply to the retina. Central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) and branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) are the primary forms of RVO, with CRVO often presenting a more severe risk of vision loss.

Symptoms and Risk Factors: Common symptoms include sudden vision loss, blurry or distorted vision, and, in some cases, a dark area or "shadow" in the field of vision. Risk factors for retinal vascular occlusions include age (typically over 50), high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma, atherosclerosis, and smoking. In younger patients, additional tests may be needed to rule out underlying clotting or inflammatory conditions.

Treatment by Our Retina Specialist: Our retina specialist treats retinal vascular occlusions using advanced techniques such as anti-VEGF injections to reduce swelling, steroid injections for long-term management, and laser treatments to address abnormal blood vessel growth and prevent complications like neovascular glaucoma. In severe cases, surgery such as a vitrectomy may be necessary to remove blood from the eye and stabilize vision. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to improving outcomes and preserving as much vision as possible.