About Glaucoma Services
The Glaucoma team at the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital provide services for patients with Glaucoma across Greater Manchester. In the UK, this condition affects approximately 1 in 50 people over the age of 40.
What conditions do we treat?
Glaucoma is a condition associated with raised pressure within the eye, which gradually damages the delicate nerve of the eye. If this is left untreated it can cause permanent visual loss.
We treat Glaucoma patients with varying levels of sight loss. Glaucoma gradually develops over many years, so tests to diagnose glaucoma may need to be repeated. The condition is more common in patients who have relatives with glaucoma.
What treatments do we offer?
The Eye hospital has the facilities to offer patients a number of tests to diagnose glaucoma and treatments to prevent sight loss or worsening sight loss. If glaucoma is detected and treated early enough, visual loss is preventable.
A number of tests need to be performed to diagnose glaucoma, patients can have these tests carried out at the Eye Hospital. The tests provided measure pressure within the eye, measure the visual fields (peripheral vision) and provide detailed imaging of the back of the eye.
There are different treatment options for patients with glaucoma, patients will be able to discuss with their Ophthalmologist and be provided with advice about which option is best for them. The following treatments are available:
- Eye drops – most patients will be treated with eye drops. These are usually effective and they are not too uncomfortable for patients.
- Laser – laser can be used instead of eye drops or alongside them. The team use the most up to date treatment (Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty SLT). This is safe, quick and painless.
- Surgery – a number of procedures can be performed, when a patient has significant visual loss or when other treatments are ineffective. In most cases, surgery can be performed under local anaesthetic.
A number of consultants deliver glaucoma care to patients at the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital and work alongside a team of specialist nurses, Optometrists and Orthoptists.
Consultants
- Mr Karl Mercieca - Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Mr Leon Au - Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
- Dr Robert Harper - Optometrist Consultant
- Ms Anne Fiona Spencer - Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
- Ms Cecilia Fenerty - Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon