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Eye Conditions We Treat
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Cataracts
Cataracts are the most common cause of adult blindness in the developing world. A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s normally transparent lens. With mild cataracts vision is dull and blurry, but in advanced cataracts, common in developing countries, vision is extremely poor. Treatment involves a simple operation to replace the diseased lens with a new, artificial one. The procedure can take as little at 15 minutes and usually results in restoration of good vision. ORBIS strives to improve the delivery of cataract treatment by teaching cataract surgery and providing support to local hospitals, ophthalmologists and their staff. |
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Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetes is becoming more common worldwide and is an increasing cause of blindness in developing countries. When diabetes is not treated adequately, the disease may damage blood vessels in the retina, causing bleeding and scarring. In the most severe cases, permanent blindness may result. Diabetic retinopathy can often be prevented, however, and if it does occur and is treated early, blindness can be prevented. ORBIS helps local ophthalmic communities set up screening programmes to identify those people who are at risk and those who need treatment. |
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Glaucoma
Glaucoma is caused by increased pressure in the eye. One form of the disease creeps up slowly and painlessly, gradually stealing people's peripheral vision (tunnel vision) until they are robbed of all sight. The other form of the disease is characterized by a sudden, painful rise in eye pressure. Without prompt treatment, vision loss, even blindness, can occur. Both forms of glaucoma can be treated making early detection very important. ORBIS establishes screening programmes in developing countries so that those at risk of glaucoma or those in its early stages can be treated before vision loss occurs. |
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Retinopathy of prematurity
Premature babies are at risk of losing their sight because the blood vessels in the retina -- the photographic film at the back of the eye -- haven’t had time to fully develop. These immature blood vessels may bleed and cause the retina to scar and detach (retinal detachment). Irreversible vision loss may occur if the condition isn't treated early. The key to tackling retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is screening and early treatment. As retinopathy of prematurity becomes a more frequent cause of childhood blindness in developing countries, ORBIS is providing local doctors with the skills and equipment necessary to detect and treat this potentially devastating condition. |
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Strabismus (squint)
Strabismus is a congenital condition in which the eyes don’t work in unison. Because the eyes look in two different directions at the same time, double vision often occurs, children with strabismus often find that the weaker eye gets worse over time as the dominant eye takes over. In most cases, treatment to straighten the eyes can prevent poor vision and irreversible damage. ORBIS trains eye doctors in poor countries to correct strabismus and develops comprehensive eye treatment centres for both children and adults. |
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