RETINA TREATMENT IN IRELIA HEALTH

• RVO is a blockage in one of the retinal veins, often causing sudden vision loss. It can be associated with high blood pressure, diabetes, or other vascular conditions.

Retinitis Pigmentosa:

• This is a genetic disorder where the retina gradually deteriorates, often leading to night blindness and peripheral vision loss.

Types of Retina Treatments

Laser Treatments:

Laser therapy is often used to treat conditions like diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion by sealing leaking blood vessels or reducing swelling in the retina.

• Laser Photocoagulation: Used to treat diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, and other retinal conditions, it involves using a laser to seal leaking blood vessels or create small scars to stabilize the retina.

• Laser Therapy for Retinal Tears: If a retinal tear is detected, laser therapy can help prevent retinal detachment by sealing the tear and preventing fluid from entering the retina.

Anti-VEGF Injections

Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) medications are injected into the eye to treat diseases like wet macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema. These injections inhibit the growth of abnormal blood vessels and reduce fluid buildup, preventing vision loss.

• Common Anti-VEGF Medications:

• Lucentis

• Eylea

• Avastin

Vitrectomy (Surgical Treatment)

Vitrectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the vitreous gel (the jelly-like substance inside the eye) to access the retina. This procedure is typically performed for conditions like:

• Retinal detachment

• Diabetic retinopathy

• Retinal tears or hemorrhages

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​The surgery allows the surgeon to repair the retina by removing scar tissue, reattaching the retina, or inserting a gas bubble or silicone oil to help the retina stay in place while it heals.

Cryotherapy (Freezing Treatment)

Cryotherapy involves freezing areas of the retina that have become damaged or are at risk of detaching. This can help seal retinal tears or holes, preventing further damage or detachment. It's often used in conjunction with other treatments.

Steroid Injections

Steroid injections can be used to reduce inflammation and treat conditions such as diabetic macular edema, retinal vein occlusion, and uveitis (inflammation inside the eye). These treatments can help reduce swelling and prevent vision loss.

Retinal Prosthesis (Bionic Eye)

In cases of advanced retinal degeneration, such as retinitis pigmentosa, a retinal prosthesis (commonly known as a "bionic eye") may be used to restore partial vision. This device works by using a camera mounted on glasses to capture visual information, which is then sent to a microelectrode array implanted in the retina.

Gene Therapy

Gene therapy is an emerging treatment for retinal diseases, particularly genetic conditions like retinitis pigmentosa. By introducing healthy genes into the retina, gene therapy aims to correct genetic defects that cause the degeneration of retinal cells. This is still largely in experimental stages but holds promise for future treatments.

Stem Cell Therapy

Stem cell therapy is another emerging area of research in retinal treatment. Scientists are exploring ways to use stem cells to repair or replace damaged retinal cells. This could provide a potential cure for degenerative retinal diseases like macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa.

What to Expect During Retina Treatment

• Pre-treatment: Before treatment, an eye doctor (ophthalmologist) will conduct a thorough eye examination, including imaging tests such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography to determine the extent of retinal damage. Based on the diagnosis, a treatment plan will be developed.

• During Treatment: Treatments like laser therapy or injections typically take place in an outpatient setting, and patients may receive local anesthesia to numb the eye. Surgical procedures, like vitrectomy, are usually done under general anesthesia and may require a hospital stay.

• Post-treatment: After treatments, patients may need to follow specific care instructions, such as using prescribed eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, or attending follow-up appointments. The recovery time can vary depending on the procedure, but many people experience gradual improvements in vision.