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Azin Abazari MD |
The Cornea and Anterior Segment Service specializes in problems of the
conjunctiva, the cornea, and the lens of the eye. Common problems
include cataracts, corneal infections, all other corneal problems, dry
eye, complications of cataract surgery, blepharitis and other
abnormalities of the ocular surface. Surgical services include small
incision sutureless cataract surgery, corneal transplantation, pterygium
excision, repair of complications of cataract surgery, repair of trauma
to the front of the eye, and secondary lens implantation.
The
Cornea and Anterior Segment Service provides comprehensive ocular
evaluations with special emphasis on the evaluation of cataracts and
corneal problems. Special studies of the cornea may include specular
microscopy, computerized topography, pachymetry and potential visual
acuity testing which can often be performed during a single visit. The
service is currently involved in the development of a new instrument
that may allow for very early detection of cataracts and monitoring of
their development. Other research interests include dry eye,
blepharitis, and post-surgical inflammation.
Cataract and corneal
surgery is done as an outpatient. The preferred technique for cataract
surgery is small incision phacoemulsification using a foldable lens. A
bifocal intraocular lens can be inserted in many patients if so desired.
However, it is very important to discuss the advantages and
disadvantages of these lenses before proceeding with surgery. For those
patients concerned about injections to numb the eye, a topical technique
can be used to avoid these injections.
Corneal transplantation
is also done on an outpatient basis. The patient does require frequent
follow up visits for the first few months followed by less frequent
visits over the next year. Corneal transplantation surgery does not heal
as quickly as cataract surgery. Therefore, the time necessary to
achieve the final best vision is very variable and is dependent on the
original problem leading to the corneal transplant. Patients should
expect a 6 to 12 month recovery following surgery. Some cases may need
additional refractive procedures to correct post-operative astigmatism
or other refractive errors.
