Glaucoma and GDx Testing
A new laser technology, which may revolutionize the early diagnosis of glaucoma, is available for the first time in Lafayette at Williamson Eye Institute in Jefferson Square, the only site in Lafayette where the advanced sight-saving exam is currently available. The new laser instrument called GDx VCC Nerve Fiber Analyzer measures the nerve fiber layer, a thin layer of tissue surrounding the optic nerve, and has been found to be a more precise and accurate test than other technologies currently used to detect glaucoma. GDx VCC is especially valuable to screen for glaucoma. The current air puff test, which only measures intraocular pressure to detect glaucoma, fails for many people tested as studies show that numerous glaucoma sufferers have no elevation of pressure. Other common tests determine the presence of glaucoma only late in the course of the disease by measuring how much vision has already been lost.
"The new laser technology will have broad use in the future for those who desire accurate, rapid and cost-effective glaucoma detection," stated Robert T. Williamson MD. "As the population in the Lafayette area ages, glaucoma detection and treatment will become a much greater concern and it is vital to use technologies that effectively meet that need."
Dr. Williamson feels that consumers as well as eye care professionals need to be aware of this advanced technology as studies show over 50% of individuals with glaucoma aren't aware of it. "Glaucoma is a painless disease and is often referred to as the 'silent thief of sight' because many patients don't know they have a problem until significant vision has been lost," he explained.
The GDx VCC technology is also currently in use at prestigious eye institutions and research centers such as the Wilmer Eye Institute, University of Louisville, Stanford University, Balboa Naval Hospital in San Diego, CA, and University of Washington in Seattle.
Dr. Williamson stresses that the GDx examination is painless and usually does not require pupil dilation. He explained that the laser works by using polarized light to pass through the nerve fiber layer and measure 65,536 points on the tissue layer. A powerful computer that "maps" the nerve fibers and instantly compares them to a database of healthy glaucoma-free patients processes the measurements. A thinning of the fibers indicates glaucoma.
This test is especially helpful in diagnosing and following early glaucoma. It has already helped hundreds upon hundreds of patients. It helps us to stay on the cutting edge of modern day glaucoma diagnosis and treatment. | |
