GDx:
The GDx is an instrument that is extremely useful in the detection and management of glaucoma. For the patient, this instrument is much like having a picture taken of the back of the eye where the optic nerve and retina are located. What it is actually doing is measuring the Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer or RNFL. Glaucoma is characterized by a loss of the tissue that makes up the RNFL. A loss in the RNFL precedes the symptom of glaucoma, which is a loss of vision in the patient’s peripheral field of vision. Even if the instrument is not indicating conclusive evidence of glaucomatous damage, it allows for monitoring of this layer (with repeated testing) to determine if changes are occurring, indicating ongoing damage. The GDx is a revolutionary instrument allowing glaucoma to be diagnosed much sooner than previously possible.
Humphrey Matrix Perimeter:
A perimeter is an instrument used to test a patient’s peripheral, or side vision. Since glaucoma is a disease that steals a patient’s peripheral vision, a perimeter is necessary in the diagnosis and management of glaucoma. However, there are many other conditions of the eye (such as retinal detachment, macular degeneration, or tumors of the optic nerve, retina or even the brain) that can be detected with a test of the visual field. The Humphrey Matrix uses the latest, most advanced technology in perimetry for early detection of visual defects in a shorter test time than older perimeter models.
Pachymeter:
Recent studies have indicated that the measurement of pressure in the eye is influenced by the thickness of the cornea, defined as the front “window” of the eye or the clear tissue on which a contact lens sits. The thickness of this tissue is measured with a pachymeter. If the cornea measures thick, the pressure reading will be higher than actual and needs to be adjusted to more accurately interpret its role in a possible case of glaucoma. Conversely, if the cornea measurement is thin, the pressure readings are going to be lower than actual, and will need to be adjusted accordingly.
Slit Lamp Camera:
This camera is designed to take pictures of the front of the eye. This can be valuable for monitoring the healing process of any problems with the front of the eye, including the eyelids. It is also useful for educating the patient about his or her eyes and any problems they may have. Patient education is something that Dr. La Count feels very strongly about and thoroughly enjoys teaching patients about their eyes and vision.
Non-Contact Tonometry:
Is called the “air puff” or the “dreaded air puff” by some. The new NCT or Non-Contact Tonometer at Family Focused Vision Care does not deliver as strong a puff of air as older models. Many have commented that it is much easier to tolerate this test with our new model. This test measures the pressure in one’s eye; however, it is not a “glaucoma test”. Unfortunately, glaucoma is a very difficult disease to diagnose. However measuring eye pressure is necessary for the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. This NCT is a screening test for high pressure, but if Dr. La Count is concerned about glaucoma, she will use other methods to more accurately measure the pressure in the eye - as well as other testing equipment - described in the Glaucoma Diagnosis and Management section of this website.
Auto Refractor:
This is the “computer” used to estimate the patient’s distance prescription. It is a handy screening tool to give Dr. La Count a place to start in determining the patient’s refractive error, or the prescription they need in their glasses. From this estimate, Dr. La Count, along with the patient, will fine tune the prescription to achieve the best vision possible.
