News

Advanced Glaucoma Technology Available at Thomas Eye Center

November 6, 2007

Dr. Stuart Thomas of Thomas Eye Center recently added new technology to the updated office. ZEISS GDx™ is an innovative test that detects glaucoma earlier and more accurately that other glaucoma exams.

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the United States, and half of those affected are not even aware of it. One reason is that one third of glaucoma is undectable with the traditional “air puff” test. To help doctors with this problem, leading diagnostic equipment manufacturer Carl Zeiss Meditec has developed a revolutionary instrument to help diagnose glaucoma earlier and monitor its progress.

Dr. Thomas offers the ZEISS GDx™ glaucoma exam because early detection of the disease is vital for saving vision. “Glaucoma is painless and advances slowly, so many patients don’t realize they have a problem until it’s too late,” said Dr. Thomas. “Unfortunately, glaucoma-related vision loss cannon be reversed, so time is of the essence.”

The ZEISS GDx™ exam is safe and comfortable and takes 3 minutes or less. The instrument scans 36,000 discrete points on the retina. These measurements are then analyzed by computer and compared with those of healthy, glaucoma-free patients. An abnormally thin retinal nerve fiber layer indicates that glaucoma may be present.

“ZEISS GDx™ scanning technology will have broad use in the future for accurate, rapid and cost-effective glaucoma detection,” said Dr. Thomas. “As our population ages, glaucoma detection and treatment will become a much greater concern.”

Thomas Eye Center is a well-known optometry practice in Athens, having served the community since 1951. Founded by Dr. Gerald Thomas, the practice is dedicated to the delivery of excellent eye health care and to providing the latest trends in optical merchandise, including frames, lenses and contact lenses. Thomas Eye Center provides complete vision analysis including eye examinations, ocular disease screenings and the treatment of ocular conditions, as well as prescriptions and glasses and contact lens fittings. For more information on the ZEISS GDx™ exam or to arrange for an appointment, contact Thomas Eye Center at 706.549.7757.