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We offer an extensive ophthalmic surgical network of brands with offices throughout Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New York, and New Jersey. Our centers provide innovative surgical solutions partnered with ophthalmology practices to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients. OOMC is pleased to provide the highest level of expertise in the ophthalmic treatment space.
Understanding and managing your retinal disease
Most retina degeneration and disease can be diagnosed by an eye examination where the pupil is dilated, especially with early diagnosis. An optometrist can determine whether a retinal condition or other eye disorder may be affecting your vision and then work with our surgical team to work on a plan for treatment.
There are many different types of retinal disease but the two main types are outlined below.
Flashes and floaters are associated with nearsightedness, injuries to the eye and age. Flashes appear as flashing lights or as “lightning strikes” in the field of vision, while Floaters may be seen as dots, lines or cobwebs. They often clear up on their own, or stay present when there’s a tear in the retina and require surgery to maintain vision.
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina becomes separated from the back wall of the eye, the blood supply is reduced and its ability to process light rays is impaired. They must be repaired surgically.
Treatment for retinal diseases may vary, so we’ll work together to determine what’s best, and better manage your vision.
We’re committed to making the latest technology available to you when you visit Omni.
We often combine treatments with surgeries, saving you time, and sometimes money, in the long run.
You’ll always feel like family here, and your family will always be comfortable here in our waiting room while you go through your procedure.
When treating your specific retinal disease, there are options available. The right treatment plan will be customized based on the results of your consultation and these treatment options.
A retinal surgeon stiches a silicone material to the outside of the eye when there’s a retinal detachment, which buckles the sclera and causes a decrease in the circumference of the eye.
A surgeon removes or replenishes vitreous gel from the eye through the pars plana. This particular technique can be performed in conjunction with other surgeries.
A surgeon will perform pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) or scleral buckling to treat a complex retinal detachment. An injection of gas may also be necessary, along with a laser to seal the retinal tears, and the vitreous cavity may then filled with silicone oil to help with healing.
A surgeon will perform a vitrectomy as treatment for macular hole repair. The vitreous gel is extracted, and substituted with a mix of air and gas. This mixture puts pressure on the edges of the macular hole and helps it heal. Sometimes, the patient can develop a cataract post treatment, which can be treated during an additional surgery.
An ERM occurs when fibro cellular membranes form on the inner surface of the retina. They can usually be monitored during routine eye exams but can sometimes result in painless loss of vision and visual distortion. If the membrane is significant enough to be causing visual issues, it can be removed from the retina with a simple surgical procedure. Sometimes, the patient can develop a cataract post-procedure, which can be treated during an additional surgery.
Endophthalmitis is an infection inside the eye that may have serious visual complications. Treatment for endophthalmitis needs to be performed immediately. In the event that you are experiencing acute vison loss, our surgeons will perform a vitrectomy to remove any infectious debris from your eye and inject antibiotics or antifungal agents directly inside your eye.
Tiny retinal holes or tears may form throughout the retina, and may not be related to any kind of symptoms; having said that, symptoms such as flashing lights and floating spots are not uncommon. Treatment of these is often necessary to prevent larger concerns like retinal detachment from developing. These are often treated in the office with either laser or cryo (freezing) techniques.
A surgeon will inject intravitreal anti-VEGF drugs and steroids to minimize fluid leakage and blood loss for ailments such as macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Injectable antibiotic, anti-fungal and antiviral drugs are also used to treat patients with infections in the eye such as endophthalmitis and retinitis.
If you’d like to learn more about the different types of retinal disease and their treatment options, visit the retinal treatment page on our parent website.
For questions regarding our practice or general inquires contact us here.
