Technological advancements are a key component of modern medicine. As new equipment and procedures develop, so does the ability of ophthalmologists to provide superior care to their patients. Many of today’s treatments that protect and restore vision were not an option for patients until recently. In this blog, the experienced ophthalmologists at Austin Eye explain how their patients can benefit from these advancements.
Diagnostic Imaging
Modern technology captures images of patients’ eyes that are more detailed than could even have been dreamed by doctors a decade or two ago. This can help create a custom 3D map of the eye, which is especially useful for performing eye surgery. It can also help identify signs of eye disease in very early stages so that treatment can start to preserve vision. In particular, digital imaging technology gives eye doctors a better understanding of the patient’s retina, so that retinal conditions like retinal tears and diabetic retinopathy can be addressed properly.
Laser Procedures
Laser technology has revolutionized eye care. Lasers have become a normal part of refractive surgery, cataract surgery, glaucoma management, and retinal disorder treatments. Whereas ophthalmologists formerly had to use blades to make incisions on the eye, a laser can now serve the same function in a way that poses significantly lower complication risks. Moreover, femtosecond lasers are guided by computers for the ultimate precision, minimizing any chance for human error.
More Minimally Invasive Procedures
Thanks to technological and scientific advancements, many of the more invasive procedures that were standard have been phased out in favor of less invasive treatments. For example, MIGS (minimally invasive glaucoma surgery) has transformed the way glaucoma is treated. Also, patients with keratoconus can now slow the progression of their disease, usually negating the need for a corneal transplant later. Minimally invasive procedures mean that the recovery periods for patients are much easier with significantly less downtime.
Why Austin Eye
While some eye centers are slow to make changes, our team understands the benefit of adopting new technologies that can benefit our patients and provide even better care. We update our facilities regularly and our six talented eye doctors remain committed to learning about emerging technologies because our patients deserve the best options available.
To see why so many patients in Texas trust their vision to Austin Eye, please schedule an appointment by calling our Northwest or Westlake offices at (512) 250-2020, or by requesting an appointment online.
