Age related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the most common cause of blindness in people aged 60 and over it is estimated to affect 3 million people in the UK. It usually affects both eyes with the degeneration or even loss of the central vision, can severely impact on a person quality of life. Driving, reading and even recognising faces may be difficult depending on the severity of the condition.
A Double Intra Ocular Lens Implant for Visual Rehabilitation of Patients with Macular Disease
Macular degeneration destroys the cells in the macula; this is the area at the back of the eye (the retina) where images are focused, the degeneration causes scarring on the macula which then prevents the images being sent to the brain.
The natural lens is removed in a procedure similar to normal cataract surgery, the first lens a flexible Perspex lens which is placed behind the iris. The position of this lens angles images from the scarred macula to healthy retinal tissue.
The second lens is placed in front of the iris and the first lens. The two lenses then act as a telescope to allow the images to be focused and processed to the optical nerve and then sent to the brain. The procedure takes approx 45 minutes it can be performed under local or general anaesthetic, there is no need for an overnight stay in most cases; Patients that have previously had cataract surgery are also suitable for this treatment.
Mr Owen Stewart Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon is providing this breakthrough technique at Spire Hull and East Riding Hospital; the patient requires a thorough diagnostic consultation to assess if there is sufficient healthy retinal tissue. Following the treatment the patient must perform ‘eye exercises’, so far results are very encouraging. A study recently showed 60% of patients had doubled their distance vision and 87% doubled their reading vision.
The treatment is not available via private medical insurance and Spire Hull and East Riding Hospital has a self funding price of £6,000. For more information please contact the Customer Services Team on 01482 672412.