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Retina Care

The practice of Hadi Zambarakji

Guide to the telescope implant for patients with end-stage age-related macular degeneration

 

It is exciting to let you know about a new option for treating patients with end-stage age-related macular degeneration (AMD). An innovative CE marked and FDA-approved telescope implant is now available for patients that meet eligibility criteria to treat the most advanced form of AMD in which both eyes have lost central vision. The first-of-kind telescope implant is an integral part of the CentraSight® treatment programme (www.en.CentraSight.com), a new comprehensive patient care programme that is available to patients with bilateral advanced AMD. Exact details of where this will take place and the patient pathway are currently being developed, however an initial assessment would be needed to evaluate eligibility for the telescope implant.

 

The telescope implant is a revolutionary medical/surgical option that improves visual acuity by reducing the impact of the central vision blind spot caused by end-stage AMD. The CentraSight programme combines ophthalmology with low vision optometric and visual rehabilitation care to optimize visual benefits and integrate the new vision into functional activities.

 

The FDA clinical studies involving 28 leading ophthalmic centres and 217 patients demonstrated statistically significant and clinically meaningful results for improved visual acuity and quality of life for patients with end-stage AMD. Telescope implant patients on average were able to see 3 to 4 lines better on the eye test chart, and demonstrated improved quality of life on a National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire-25 (VFQ-25), reporting that they are less limited and less dependent on others in their activities related to vision. The telescope implant was well tolerated in the eye, with the most common complication being related to inflammation. Significant adverse events include corneal swelling, corneal transplant, and decrease in visual acuity. The clinical trial results have been published in scientific journals. Like any surgery, the procedure has inherent risks, but the purpose of the initial assessment is to carefully select suitable patients. Ultimately, the patient makes the decision after a thorough evaluation, including visual simulation and functional goal assessment.

 

To be eligible for the telescope implant and prior to undergoing any further tests, the patient must meet certain criteria:

  • Be 55 years of age or older
  • Have bilateral stable, untreatable AMD
  • BCVA between 20/80 and 20/800 (6/24 and 6/240)
  • Agree to participate in postoperative visual training with an occupational therapist

 

For more detailed information about indications, contraindications, clinical study results, risks and safety information, would you please contact us for a clinic appointment on telephone number 07947 578480. You can also email our office on email: info@retinacare.org.uk.

 

Prepared by Mr. H. Zambarakji FRCOphth, D.M
Consultant Ophthalmologist

 

 

 

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