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GDX VCC - New technology to detect and monitor Glaucoma |
| Glaucoma is a major cause of blindness in the world. Mostly affecting the over 40 age group, Glaucoma can take many forms but mostly results in gradually deteriorating peripheral vision and eventually blindness. However progression of the disease can be slowed and even halted simply with the regular use of eye drops. Detecting Glaucoma as early as possible can considerably increase the effectiveness of treatment as any damage already caused cannot be reversed. |
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Our eyes 'see' by light entering the eye being detected by cells in the retina (the film at the back of the eye). These cells then pass signals to the brain via nerve fibres that pass across the back og the eye, pass through a hole in the back of the eye (optic disc) and on though the optic nerve to the brain. We normally have about 1.2 million nerve fibres in each eye. Glaucoma gradualy damages these fibres causing them to die, the exact cause of this is not fully understood however the pressure of the fluid within the eye is a significant factor. |
| Normal methods of detecting glaucoma include measuring the pressure within the eye (Tonometry), careful observation of the optic disc and assessment of visual fields. These are very useful techniques, but may not always detect glaucoma early on. |
| The GDX VCC accurately measures the thickness of the nerve fibre layer around the Optic disc. It does this in about 1 second using a very low powered imaging laser. It is a completely painless procedure, it doesn't require any drops and is completely safe for the eyes. Having aquired the image, the GDX produces a detailed printout of the results of the scan. There are 2 main benefits: It gives more information regarding the liklyhood of the patient having glaucoma at that time. It also provides a baseline for future measurements to accurately detect any abnormal loss of nerve fibres. |  |
| As useful as this additional information is though, there is unfortunately still no single measurement that can definitively detect if an individual has glaucoma. However the new information provided by the GDX will certainly assist in detecting glaucoma as early as possible. |
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| We are proud to be one of the first Optometry practices in the country to have this machine and to be able to offer it to our patients. The GDX is used much more in America where it has been available for much longer. There are a few hospital departments in Britain with these or similar machines and it is certain that there use will increase in the years to come. Due to the cost of the equipment and as its use is not covered by a normal NHS eye examination we do need to make a charge for a GDX scan. |
| For more information regarding the GDX VCC, current charges and it's appropriateness for your self please contact the practice or discuss it with the Optometrist at your next eye examination. |
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| Last modified: March 2003 |