Exceptional Care
About The Retina
The retina is a thin transparent film in the eye that changes light into signals that the brain can interpret and convert into images. The structure of the retina and its surrounding tissues is extremely complex. In order for the retina to function properly, several different types of nerves, blood vessels and cells must work in concert. Damage to any one of these structures can prevent the retina from functioning properly. The macula is perhaps the most significant part of the retina. Located next to the optic nerve, the macula is responsible for central vision, which is needed for such functions as reading and fine visual perception.
How retinal problems develop
Retinal problems can develop for a number of reasons, including diabetes, aging, high blood pressure, inherited diseases, trauma and other conditions. If you have diabetes, you are at increased risk for retinal problems, as it affects the microscopic blood vessels throughout the body, particularly those in the retina. As diabetes progresses, these vessels leak, causing swelling and bleeding in the retina or the growth of abnormal vessels. Left untreated, this can lead to severe decreased vision and even blindness. Many times there can be diabetic retinopathy without any symptoms.
Advanced Exams
Thankfully, Dr. Kirmani can accurately diagnose retinal problems in their earliest stages, when there are no outward symptoms. Early diagnosis means early treatment, which is the best way to help preserve your vision and reduce severe complications that can occur. Dr. Kirmani’s office is equipped with a multitude of state-of-the-art diagnostic capabilities, including:
- Indocyanine green angiography
- Fundus photography
- Fluorescein angiography
- Optical coherence tomography (OTC) scans
- Diagnostic ultrasonography
- Visual-field testing
Dr. Kirmani was the first ophthalmic surgeon in Las Vegas to offer retinal scanning and digital fluorescein angiography in a subspecialty retinal practice
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