RETINA DISEASES
we can help improve your sight
WHAT IS THE RETINA?
The retina is the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye. Images that come through the eye’s lens are focused on the retina. The retina then converts these images to electric signals and sends them along the optic nerve to the brain so you can see.
RETINA DISEASES
A retinal tear occurs when the clear, gel-like substance in the center of your eye (vitreous) shrinks and tugs on the thin layer of tissue lining the back of your eye (retina) with enough traction to cause a break in the tissue. It’s often accompanied by the sudden onset of symptoms such as floaters and flashing lights.
A retinal detachment is defined by the presence of fluid under the retina. This usually occurs when fluid passes through a retinal tear, causing the retina to lift away from the underlying tissue layers.
If you have diabetes, the tiny blood vessels (capillaries) in the back of your eye can deteriorate and leak fluid into and under the retina. This causes the retina to swell, which may blur or distort your vision. Or you may develop new, abnormal capillaries that break and bleed. This also worsens your vision.
Epiretinal membrane is a delicate tissue-like scar or membrane that looks like crinkled cellophane lying on top of the retina. This membrane pulls up on the retina, which distorts your vision. Objects may appear blurred or crooked.
A macular hole is a small defect in the center of the retina at the back of your eye (macula). The hole may develop from abnormal traction between the retina and the vitreous, or it may follow an injury to the eye.
In macular degeneration, the center of your retina begins to deteriorate. This causes symptoms such as blurred central vision or a blind spot in the center of the visual field. There are two types — wet macular degeneration and dry macular degeneration. Many people will first have the dry form, which can progress to the wet form in one or both eyes.
Retinitis pigmentosa is an inherited degenerative disease. It slowly affects the retina and causes loss of night and side vision.
Many retina treatments can help stop or slow the disease progression, oftentimes improving or restoring your vision.
RETINA TREAMENTS
Advances in technology have made it possible for us to diagnose many conditions sooner, which can result in earlier intervention and more preservation of sight. At Collins Vision, we’re proud to be a regional leader in diagnosing and treating many retina conditions, specifically those associated with diabetes.
MICROPULSE LASER THERAPY FOR MORE PRECISE RETINA TREATMENT
We’re excited to let patients know we are among the first and only in the area to offer our patients the latest in laser technology for the treatment of diabetic macular edema: the IRIDEX patented MicroPulse Laser Therapy (MPLT). Compared to conventional laser treatments for diabetic eye disease, this new platform delivers the capability for more precise treatment with a lower risk for retinal damage.
Because of the patented micro-pulse technology, treatment can be repeated as often as needed without harm to your vision. MPLT chops the continuous-wave laser beam into a series of tiny, repetitive, low-energy pulses separated by a brief period of rest in between. This allows the retina to cool between pulses, preventing potential damage to the retina. MPLT treatment is performed right here in our office in a comfortable outpatient setting. Treatment takes just a few minutes, and most patients describe it as comfortable and pain-free. Unlike conventional laser treatment, many patients note improved visual function within a week of treatment, and there is no risk of treatment-associated visual loss.
