Eye Conditions
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Diabetic Retinopathy
Eye disease from diabetes is the major cause of new blindness in patients aged 20-64. Diabetes can cause blood vessels in the retina to grow abnormally. The vessels can leak fluid (macular edema) or bleed inside the eye. The Center For Sight of Lufkin and Livingston, stresses that dilated eye exams are very important to track and manage diabetic changes. These exams should be performed every six-to 12 months or sooner depending on the degree of the disease. If the diabetic retinopathy requires further evaluation, a Fluorescein Angiogram may be ordered to provide photographs of the blood vessels in the retina. A special dye is injected into the arm to allow photography of these vessels.
Argon laser surgery or special injections may be recommended to treat abnormal findings that, if left\ untreated, could lead to vision loss and eventual blindness. Laser surgery can effectively treat diabetic retinopathy. This procedure is performed by Dr. Kravitz at The Center For Sight in Lufkin, on an outpatient basis and is used to accomplish the following:
- Seal leaking blood vessels, helping to prevent further vision loss.
- Slow or stop the growth of abnormal blood vessels, decreasing the chance of bleeding in the eye.
Advanced cases of diabetic retinopathy may require consultation with a retinal specialist. The doctors can refer you to a specialist and work with them to treat and manage your condition.
Macular Degeneration
The macula is the small, central area of the retina that allows us to see fine details clearly. Macular Degeneration affects your central or reading vision. Most people who have Macular Degeneration have the “dry” type, which cannot be helped by laser or in-office injections. However, vitamin therapies may reduce the rate of progression.
Approximately 10% of Macular Degeneration patients have “wet” Macular Degeneration. Abnormal blood vessels cause bleeding and scarring of the macula. If detected and treated early with certain medications, these patients may experience stabilization or significant improvement in their vision. The medicine seals the blood vessels to prevent further damage. This is an outpatient procedure performed by Dr. Kravitz.
Glaucoma
The Center For Sight of Lufkin and Livingston has an Optical Coherence Tomography available for optic nerve evaluation. This system is helpful in diagnosing glaucoma in its earliest stages. After glaucoma has been diagnosed, your condition is first treated with routine glaucoma management, but in patients where glaucoma has not been effectively controlled with medical therapy, surgery is sometimes necessary.
Initially, this may result in a laser procedure called Laser Trabeculoplasty. This procedure is performed by Dr. Kravitz in the Lufkin clinic as an office procedure. After the treatment, you should be able to resume your usual activities. This glaucoma procedure is often successful in reducing intraocular pressure more than 80% of the time and may reduce or eliminate the use of glaucoma medications. You should always follow your doctor’s directions concerning the use of your medication.
In the event that the glaucoma remains uncontrolled, a surgical procedure called a Trabeculectomy may be necessary. This procedure is also performed by Dr. Kravitz under local anesthesia in our AAAHC certified Ambulatory Surgery Center located in the Lufkin office.