DR. ASHOK EYE HOSPITAL

Retina Clinic

Retina is the light sensitive layer at the back of the eye. It receives the rays of light and sends it to the brain via the optic nerve for interpretation.
The retina has 10 layers and has blood vessels running through it.Macula is the central and the most sensitive area of the retina.

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The Centre has all the necessary and modern equipment and expertise to diagnose and treat retinal conditions like all stages of diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusions, age related degeneration(dry and wet, macular conditions and many similar retinal conditions.

About Us

The current addition of OCTA has improved the diagnosing ability of a lot of retinal conditions. The OCTA or Optical Coherence Tomography Angiogram is a new non-contact, non-invasive imaging technique that generates volumetric angiography images in a matter of seconds. It delineate the blood vessels across all the layers of the retina and the choroid, so new blood vessels and ischemic areas are seen.
This makes it easier to analyze and gives a better understanding of the pathology and hastens decision making. FFA is used in select situations of retinal vascular conditions, it involves injecting a dye in the forearm followed by taking of photos of the retina in all gazes. The Fundus imaging equipment can take images of the central 40 degrees of the retina and the optic nerve as well as front of the eye without dilatation, which helps in quick screening for conditions like diabetic retinopathy. It also helps in planimetry. The Retina (green) laser is used in the treatment of many retinal conditions and this equipment has all 3 modalities of laser delivery system Many retinal conditions warrant injections to be given in the eye and they are given in the operation room as it requires stringent sterilized areas, the Centre has a state of the art operating room with ambulatory beds which makes the entire experience comfortable for the patient especially since multiple injections are given in most conditions.

Age Related Macular Degeneration(ARMD) -

The Macula is in the centre of the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye. As you read, light is focused onto your macula. There, millions of cells change the light into nerve signals that tell the brain what you are seeing. This is called central vision. With it, one is able to read, drive, and perform other activities that require fine, sharp, straight-ahead vi-sion.

Macular degeneration

Macular degeneration is the deterioration of the macula (the central area of the reti-na responsible for detail vision). Central vision becomes blurred and distorted, and results in lost detail vision, difficulty in reading, increased need for light and reduced colour vision. There are two types of this disease: dry and wet. Dry is more common (90%). Due to blood vessel growth in or under the retina, the wet type results in severe vision loss, which occurs more rapidly than in cases of dry macular degeneration.

Although Macular Degeneration can occur during middle age, the risk increases, as a person gets older. Results of a large study show that people in their 50s have about a two percent chance of getting this problem. This risk rises to nearly 30 percent in those over age 75.

Certain studies have shown that it ranks second after diabetic retinopathy as the leading cause of blindness in the 45 to 64 year age group. Besides age, other risk factors include Neither dry nor wet AMD causes any pain. The most common symptom of dry AMD is slightly blurred vision. You may need more light for reading and other tasks. Also, you may find it hard to recognize faces until you are very close to them.

People with the dry type in one eye often do not notice any changes in their vision. With one eye seeing clearly, they can still drive, read, and see fine details. Some people may notice changes in their vision only if the condition affects both of their eyes

An early symptom of the wet type is that straight lines appear wavy.

Macular degeneration is the deterioration of the macula (the central area of the reti-na responsible for detail vision). Central vision becomes blurred and distorted, and results in lost detail vision, difficulty in reading, increased need for light and reduced colour vision. There are two types of this disease: dry and wet. Dry is more common (90%). Due to blood vessel growth in or under the retina, the wet type results in severe vision loss, which occurs more rapidly than in cases of dry macular degeneration.

Although Macular Degeneration can occur during middle age, the risk increases, as a person gets older. Results of a large study show that people in their 50s have about a two percent chance of getting this problem. This risk rises to nearly 30 percent in those over age 75.

Certain studies have shown that it ranks second after diabetic retinopathy as the leading cause of blindness in the 45 to 64 year age group. Besides age, other risk factors include Neither dry nor wet AMD causes any pain. The most common symptom of dry AMD is slightly blurred vision. You may need more light for reading and other tasks. Also, you may find it hard to recognize faces until you are very close to them.

People with the dry type in one eye often do not notice any changes in their vision. With one eye seeing clearly, they can still drive, read, and see fine details. Some people may notice changes in their vision only if the condition affects both of their eyes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What conditions are treated at the Retina Clinic?

The Retina Clinic diagnoses and treats a wide range of retinal diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusions, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), macular disorders, retinal vascular diseases, and other conditions affecting the back of the eye. Advanced diagnostic imaging and evidence-based treatments are used for comprehensive care.

What are the warning signs of a retinal problem?

Symptoms such as sudden blurred vision, flashes of light, floaters, distorted vision, dark spots, or loss of central or peripheral vision may indicate a retinal condition. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek an eye examination promptly.

How is diabetic retinopathy diagnosed and treated?

Diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed through a detailed retinal examination and imaging tests such as fundus photography and OCT/OCTA. Depending on the severity, treatment may include retinal laser therapy, intravitreal injections, or surgery to preserve vision.

What is OCTA, and why is it important for retinal diseases?

Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCTA) is a non-invasive imaging technique that provides detailed views of retinal blood vessels without dye injection. It helps detect and monitor conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration with high precision.

Can age-related macular degeneration (AMD) be treated?

While AMD cannot always be cured, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help slow disease progression and preserve vision. Management depends on whether the condition is the dry or wet form and may include medications, injections, and regular monitoring.

What are intravitreal eye injections, and are they safe?

Intravitreal injections deliver medication directly into the eye to treat retinal diseases such as wet AMD and diabetic macular edema. They are performed under sterile conditions and are widely used as a safe and effective treatment option.

Do retinal laser treatments require hospitalization?

Most retinal laser procedures are performed on an outpatient basis and do not require an overnight hospital stay. Patients can usually return home the same day after receiving post-procedure instructions.

Can diabetes affect my eyesight even if I have no symptoms?

Yes. Diabetic retinopathy can develop without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. People with diabetes should undergo regular retinal examinations to detect changes early and reduce the risk of vision loss.

How often should I have a retina check-up if I have diabetes or high blood pressure?

Individuals with diabetes or hypertension should follow their ophthalmologist’s recommendations for regular retinal screening. The frequency depends on their eye findings and overall health, but periodic examinations are essential for early detection of retinal damage.

What tests are performed during a retina evaluation?

A retina evaluation may include a dilated eye examination, fundus photography, OCT or OCTA scans, fluorescein angiography in selected cases, and other imaging tests to accurately diagnose and monitor retinal conditions.

Can retinal diseases lead to permanent vision loss?

Some retinal diseases can cause irreversible vision damage if left untreated. Early diagnosis and timely intervention significantly improve the chances of preserving vision and preventing complications.

How do I book an appointment at the Retina Clinic in Chennai?

You can schedule a consultation with the Retina Clinic for a comprehensive retinal evaluation, advanced diagnostic testing, and personalized treatment planning based on your specific eye condition.

Will the hospital help with insurance documentation and claims?

Yes, many hospitals assist patients by providing the necessary medical records, estimates, invoices, and supporting documents required for insurance reimbursement or claim processing.

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