Latest technology in glaucoma treatment at Marion Eye Center

To provide patients with the latest alternatives in glaucoma treatment, Dr. Ahmad announces the availability of Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty, a progressive new treatment in the fight to stop the progression of glaucoma. This new therapy is now available at the Marion Eye Center.

"Screening and early intervention is critical to detecting and stopping the relentless progression of glaucoma," said Dr. Ahmad. "Our facility is proud to offer this breakthrough laser treatment that has been clinically proven to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) which has been attributed to the progression of glaucoma.

"With virtually no side effects and thereby eliminating or reducing the quantity of prescription medications, eye drops, surgery, and other invasive treatments required to control the disease, SLT is the ideal treatment modality."

Certain groups of people have been shown to be at increased risk for developing glaucoma. These groups include people over 40, people who have a family history of glaucoma, African- and Hispanic-Americans, people who have diabetes, hypertension, myopia (nearsightedness), poor ocular circulation, a previous eye injury, people who have used steroid/cortisone medications on a long-term basis and especially people with elevated intraocular pressure.

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), made available by Lumenis Inc. of Santa Clara, Calif., can be administered in Marion Eye Center's office with the Selecta Glaucoma Laser System to lower the eye pressure that is symptomatic of glaucoma.

SLT does not cause scarring or damage to the eye like other laser treatments and has been shown to effectively keep pressure lower for up to four years. SLT may also be an alternative for patients who have been treated unsuccessfully with laser surgery in the past or with pressure lowering drops.

The Marion Eye Center, under the direction of Dr. Ahmad, MD, specializes in the diagnosis, treatment and research of glaucoma. Utilizing the latest technology available, the Marion Eye Center is committed to providing patients with the best care possible.

For more information or to make an appointment call 1-800-344-7058. The first day the laser was in use at the Marion office was Nov. 4.