The GDX or glaucoma diagnostic test is used to determine the nerve fiber layer thickness around the optic disc. It is an important test for patients that may be suspected of developing glaucoma or those patients that have already been diagnosed with glaucoma. The test takes only a few minutes and compares the results of each patient to the results of those of the same age that have normal results. It also compares the results to a patient’s previous test results. The GDX Nerve Fiber Analyzer helps our doctors make the right choices in the management and detection of glaucoma.
VISUAL FIELD ANALYSIS
The Visual Field Analyzer is used to determine if a patient has a peripheral
or central visual field defect. This information can help to determine
if a patient has glaucoma, retinal problems, has had a stroke or if a
patient has a brain tumor. By plotting the field of vision, our doctors
are able to better diagnose and treat eye and health problems.
FUNDUS
PHOTOGRAPHY
Fundus photographs are used to display the appearance of the inside of
the patients eye including the retina. Additionally, the photographs show
any changes that may be occurring in the optic nerve. The photos are generally
used to show damage to the retina that may be caused by glaucoma as well
as diabetic retinopathy or aging/pathologic changes.
The Pachymeter helps determine the thickness of the cornea. This test is helpful in the management of glaucoma as well as certain disorders that can result in a loss of vision. PACH is also used to assist our physicians in determining whether or not the cornea is strong enough for LASIK surgery.
GONIOSCOPY
Gonio photography is used to evaluate and manage patients that are suspected
of or have been diagnosed with glaucoma. It is also helpful in determining
the type of glaucoma in which a patient may be suffering from. A special
lens and a slit lamp are used to display the front part of the eye between
the cornea and the iris. This painless examination helps show the area
in which the fluid drains out of the eye and is beneficial in determining
whether this area is closed or open.
FLUORESCEIN
ANGIOGRAPY (FA)
The FA test is used to provide information in reference to the condition
of the back of the eye and retina. Any circulation problems, swelling,
or abnormal blood vessels in the eye can be seen by performing this test.
Our doctors usually recommend patients that are at risk or have been diagnosed
with diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration to have an FA test performed.
SELECTIVE
LASER TRABECULECTOMY (SLT)
The SLT is used to help lower intraocular eye pressure in patients that
have glaucoma. This safe and painless laser treatment is performed in
our office. Patients whose pressures cannot be controlled by eye drops
alone are usually recommended to have the SLT in order to preserve visual
acuity. The SLT also helps patients reduce the need to use numerous eye
drops to treat their eye condition.
YAG
LASER CAPSALOTOMY
Occasionally, vision after cataract surgery may once again become cloudy.
This cloudiness is caused by the opacification of the lens capsule (the
clear structure that holds the intraocular lens in its place). Patients
that are having trouble with reading, driving or other activities may
be recommended to have the YAG Laser. The YAG Laser is a safe in-office
procedure that is used to open a cloudy lens capsule. It will help restore
any vision that may have been lost due the cloudiness of the lens capsule
and is painless.
