Photo Dynamic Thearpy
Photo Dynamic Thearpy
Photodynamic therapy is a special form of Laser treatment for Choroidal Neo Vascular Membrane (CNVM) due to various causes like – Age related Macular Degeneration (AMD), High Myopia, idiopathic and post inflammatory. In photodynamic therapy , the non thermal laser selectively close the abnormal blood vessels, thereby stopping the leakage and bleeding without damaging the normal structures of the retina.
Photodynamic therapy, also referred to as PDT, combines two techniques in a minimally invasive laser eye surgical procedure. It uses a cold laser and a light sensitive drug like Verteporfin that gets activated when the laser is aimed at it. Using this method, problems associated with abnormal blood vessels in your retina or the underlying choroid layer get resolved.
Your eyes and vision change over time. People in their early-to-mid-40s may complain of blurry vision or double vision. An estimated 64 percent of Americans suffer from some form of ocular disorder or another vision problem. The easiest way to maintain your eye health is by getting routine eye examinations.
What eye problems can photodynamic therapy treat?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition in which you experience rapid growth of abnormal blood vessels in the choroid layer of your retina. These blood vessels are extremely fragile and prone to leaking blood into the surrounding tissues. This condition, known as wet AMD, can damage your retina, causing scarring and eventually significant vision impairment. Photodynamic therapy eye treatment only works on wet AMD.
How is this procedure carried out?
The main goal of photodynamic therapy is to reduce the leaks from the abnormal blood vessels and eliminate any fluid retention. The treatment usually starts with eyedrops to dilate your eyes. You may even need to undergo more diagnostic imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis and ensure there are no other underlying issues. To get the right light sensitive drug dose, your doctor may take your body measurements. Once the preparatory phase is complete:
- The drug is injected into your blood stream. It may take about 10 minutes for the drug to reach the abnormal blood vessels in your retina and choroid.
- After 15 minutes, your ophthalmologist starts the procedure, first by fixing a contact lens on your eye and then using the laser.
- The cold laser activates the drug in the abnormal blood vessels, creating blood clots that seal off the leaks.
One of the biggest advantages of the photodynamic therapy is its lack of heat. Because the laser doesn’t use heat, your doctor has little chance of accidentally damaging your retina. Other benefits include:
- The procedure helps stabilize your vision if you’re suffering from AMD.
- The laser can be targeted precisely due to the dye in the drug.
- The procedure is completely painless.
- The laser beam is invisible to the naked eye.
- It’s an in-office procedure.
What precautions to be taken after treatment?
Avoid exposure of skin and eyes to direct sunlight or bright light for 5 days.
What results can I expect after my photodynamic therapy treatment?
Immediately after the laser eye surgery, your vision is going to be blurry due to the eyedrops you received. You need someone to take you home after the laser surgery. Also, since the drug is light sensitive, you have to avoid direct sunlight and bright lights for the next 48 hours. It’s advisable to wear sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat.
While photodynamic therapy can’t bring back vision you already lost, it can help preserve your remaining eyesight. Certain eye problems, however, do tend to come back, especially if you are diabetic. That’s why you need to keep coming back for follow-up examinations for a dye test to check the blood vessels in your retina and choroid.
Studies show that getting the PDT treatment early on minimizes the risks of losing your vision.
Why Choose Us?
Dr. Neetu Gagneja are an experienced opthomologist surgeon who specializes in
PHOTO DYNAMIC THERAPY
She will assess your condition and advise the best form of treatment for your condition. With proper treatment, patients can look forward to a full and quick recovery without complications.