WHAT IS MACULAR DEGENERATION?

The macula is located in the center of the retina, it is the micro-thin membrane that lines the back inside of the eye. The retina has millions of light-sensitive nerve cells that capture images focused on the retina. These captured images are transmitted to the brain by the optic nerve.

The retina performs two separate vision functions: central and peripheral. Central vision originates in the macula and is needed for highly-focused, straight-on tasks, such as reading, driving a car, or operating a computer. The rest of the retina’s nerve cells handle peripheral vision.

Any damage to the macula will result in some or even total loss of central vision. Since peripheral vision is not affected, people with macular degeneration can adapt to the loss of central vision by learning to use their remaining peripheral vision. To focus on a particular object, the person must turn his head to the angle required to bring peripheral vision into play.

Most cases of macular degeneration develop after age 50. For this reason, the disease is often referred to as age-related macular degeneration or ARMD. There are two types of macular degeneration: The Dry Form and The Wet Form.

DRY FORM OF MACULAR DEGENERATON

About 90 percent of those who have ARMD experience this simple form of deterioration of the macula. Usually, the process happens over a period of months or years and may affect only one eye. Because the “good” eye gradually takes over the central vision functions of the “bad” eye, the victim is usually not aware of the loss of central vision in the affected eye until there are symptoms. The person may notice more difficulty seeing with one eye than the other, distortion of straight lines, or small dark spots appearing in the field of vision.

At this time, effective medical treatments are limited. Along with certain low-vision aids and devices, the best treatment is learning to use the remaining peripheral vision to compensate for loss of central vision.

WET FORM OF MACULAR DEGENERATION

Although only about 10 percent of all age-related macular degeneration victims are diagnosed with the wet form of the disease, it accounts for 90 percent of the most serious loss of vision cases. In the dry form, the loss of central vision tends to be gradual. In the wet form, the deterioration of central vision can be serious and rapid. This occurs when tiny blood vessels in the micro-thin layer of tissue beneath the retina begin to degenerate with age causing tiny leaks. This can cause swellings and breaks or lesions in the retina, damaging the retina’s light-sensitive nerve cells.

Lasers have been used in treating this form of ARMD, but usually the best result is a slowing down of the deterioration process. The laser is used to cauterize the leaking blood vessels and/or “tack” the detached retina back into place. A diagnostic procedure used to determine the best course of treatment allows the doctor to tell if there is hemorrhaging in the retina. It is known as a fluorescein angiogram. Both procedures are virtually painless.

As with all eye disorders, early detection leads to more effective treatment. A thorough annual eye exam is the best protection for your vision.

Dr. Seigel and Dr. Freedman have performed many times with great success. Our patients are so pleased with clearer vision. We hope this article on has answered your questions about this surgery and what it can offer you. If you would like to speak directly to one of our doctors about this surgery of have any questions please contact our office. Or use our secure and private Inquiry Form. Doing so will allow the Dr. to better evaluate your condition and provide the most accurate feedback.

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