Follow along as SLUCare doctors restore vision and hope in this episode of The Science of Healing, which aired June 29, 2021, on KMOV-4 St. Louis.
SLUCare ophthalmologists are committed to total eye care for children and adults. We offer routine services, such as regular eye exams, eyeglass prescriptions and contact lens fittings for all needs: basic lenses, toric lenses, bifocal lenses and therapeutic lenses for prosthetic purposes. In addition, our doctors offer a complete range of specialty surgical procedures and vision support.
Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is the most common medical procedure performed on people over 65 years of age. Our experienced SLUCare surgeons use the most advanced technologies to individualize your care and precisely plan your surgery. Our techniques offer rapid restoration of clear vision in a comfortable outpatient procedure. Plus, our doctors provide full support following surgery to help assure the best possible outcome.
Corneal Services
SLUCare ophthalmologists have pioneered the development of treatments for vision-threatening diseases. These innovative techniques have led to improved successes in corneal transplantation surgery. Our experienced surgeons offer transplantation of the whole cornea, known as penetrating keratoplasty, as well as transplantation of a layer of the cornea, called lamellar keratoplasty.
Eye Trauma
As the regional eye trauma center for St. Louis and the surrounding 150-mile radius, SLUCare is part of the National Eye Trauma System, offering advanced treatments and round-the-clock emergency care, as needed. Our multi-specialty team includes experts in extraocular, cornea and vitreoretinal repair. In addition to caring for acute eye injuries, our team also treats late-stage complications related to eye trauma.
Glaucoma
Early detection and treatment of glaucoma can minimize or stop vision loss. SLUCare ophthalmologists have the latest technology to detect, track and treat this disease — even in cases of severe or uncontrolled glaucoma. Our surgeons offer a full range of procedures, including shunts, valves, plugs and filtration surgery.
Melanoma of the Eye
Though generally considered to be a form of skin cancer, melanoma may also appear in the eye. It often begins as a freckle in the back of the eye, which may grow over time. Catching melanoma early can help prevent its spread to other areas of the body, such as the liver, so it's important to see an optometrist for annual eye exams. If you are diagnosed with melanoma of the eye, you may be referred to an ophthalmologist for treatment. SLUCare ophthalmologists offer specialized care, including laser treatment, for melanoma of the eye.
Neuro-Ophthalmology
SLUCare neuro-ophthalmologists serve people with optic nerve disease, double vision, eye movement disorders and peripheral vision disorders. These specialists use technology such as tomography to evaluate and manage patients with neuro-ophthalmologic disorders. In addition, our neuro-ophthalmologists collaborate with SLUCare neurologists to offer the best possible care and support for patients with neurologic diseases affecting vision.
Oculoplastics
SLUCare performs eyelid, orbital and lacrimal procedures as part of our offerings in the area of reconstructive and state-of-the-art cosmetic surgery on the eye. We place an emphasis on collaboration with related surgical specialties during complex reconstructive procedures.
Retinal Services
SLUCare ophthalmologists treat retinal and vitreous disorders using state-of-the-art surgical and non-surgical techniques. We offer diagnosis and treatment of macular degeneration in all its forms: wet, dry, age-related and non-age related. Treatments range from dietary changes and vitamin supplements to injections that may slow progression of the disease.
Our retina specialists also treat diabetic retinopathy, a common cause of blindness in the U.S. We work with primary care physicians to coordinate a preventive care plan and regular screenings for patients with diabetes. We offer the latest treatments, including injections that can help preserve patients' sight, and surgical treatment for advanced cases, complicated by hemorrhage or retinal detachment.
In addition, our specialists offer care for retinal detachments and vein occlusions.
Uveitis
Uveitis is inflammation in the middle layer of the eye, which may cause redness, pain and swelling, along with decreased vision. Uveitis can cause significant damage, including permanent vision loss, if not treated.
SLUCare ophthalmologists diagnose, evaluate and treat uveitis, using the latest techniques to help ease symptoms and preserve sight. Our highly trained specialists look for the source of the uveitis. This may include an eye injury or an underlying condition such as infection or autoimmune disease. As part of an academic medical practice, our uveitis specialists work collaboratively with infectious disease specialists and rheumatologists to help determine the root cause of the problem and next steps for treatment.
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include caring for the affected eye, as well as the underlying disease. There are several options for treating inflammation of the uvea, based on location in the eye and severity. Treatment methods may include corticosteroid eye drops, injection of corticosteroids or oral corticosteroid pills. In some cases, patients may need immunotherapy with the assistance of a rheumatologist. Occasionally, uveitis may require corrective surgery.
For an appointment with a SLUCare ophthalmologist, call 314-617-2600.
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