MI Lasik Archives - Page 3 of 10

February 10, 2022

Retinal Transplants Ready for Human Trial

A major cause of hereditary human blindness, Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), has been resolved in rat trials by researchers at the RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR) in Japan. Degenerated rat retinas received transplants and removal of grafted cells, which resulted in improved connections to host retinas and better light-responsiveness.

Study leader Michiko Mandai said, “We have previously reported work using mouse embryonic- and induced pluripotent stem cell – (iPES)-derived retinas in a mouse model of retinal degeneration.”

However, the deputy project leader in the Laboratory for Retinal Regeneration at RIKEN BDR said, “As far as we know, this is the first report of the timed removal of particular grafted cells being shown to improve retinal function in an animal model using tissue from human stem cells.”

Since the retinal sheets were created from human stem cells, the novel feat can now be tested in human clinical trials, according to the study authors in the January 21, 2022 edition of iScience.

“Since retinal ganglion cells form optic nerves to send the signal to the brain, a higher light responsiveness could theoretically lead to improved sensitivity to light or better resolution in visual function. Genetic modification in human stem cell-derived retinas showed a substantial functional improvement [in light responsiveness], compared with wild-type graft retinas. Depending on the retinal network of the transplanted area, light responsiveness of retinal ganglion cells may be correlated with increased signaling to the brain, so could lead to an increased light sensitivity or better resolution. Additionally, we were able to observe detailed host-graft synapse formation in the absence of graft bipolar cells, which previously was difficult. A frequently asked question in retinal cell therapies concerns whether retinal ganglion cell responses are really originated from the graft photoreceptors. The presence of multiple synaptic markers at the host-graft cell contact site suggests formation of some synapses between these cells and indicates that graft photoreceptor light responses may well be transmitted to host retinal cells. We can now move forward to applying this strategy in clinical studies, which we expect to improve clinical outcomes and be generally useful in stem cell-based therapies targeting retinal degeneration. If the clinical grade ISL1-deleted stem cell-derived retinas can first pass extensive safety testing, including for tumorgenicity, we estimate that this may take 4-5 years. While we are currently targeting end-stage disease eyes with stem cell based therapy, we think this strategy could also be applied to those with remaining central vision, to help increase the pericentral visual field or delay disease progression,” Mandai said.

Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology available to provide personalized and extraordinary care to our patients. Whether your goal is to maintain or improve your natural vision, we are here to help you. Call us at 877-579-0202 or visit https://www.michiganlasik.com/ to schedule an appointment today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

November 24, 2021

New Nerve Cell Discovered in Retina

A new type of neuron, or nerve cell, has been discovered in the retina by scientists at the John A. Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah.

A complex group of neurons communicate with each other in the central nervous system, relaying sensory and motor information. These interneurons are an essential aspect of communication. This finding marks a breakthrough for scientists who are working toward a better understanding of the central nervous system. By identifying and classifying all neurons, researchers can more easily distinguish between different aspects.

A research team led by Ning Tian, Ph.D., identified the interneuron in the mammalian retina. Tian said, “Based on its morphology, physiology, and genetic properties, this cell doesn’t fit into the five classes of retinal neurons first identified more than 100 years ago. We propose they might belong to a new retinal neuron class by themselves.”

The new neuron is dubbed Campana after a handbell, resembling its shape. Campana cells are able to transmit visual signals in the retina, but the exact function is yet to be determined.

Tian said, “In the brain, persistent firing cells are believed to be involved in memory and learning. Since Campana cells have a similar behavior, we theorize they could play a role in prompting a temporal ‘memory’ of a recent situation.”

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

October 28, 2021

Blind Woman Sees Shapes Thanks to Scientists

A team of researchers from the University Miguel Hernandez (Spain), the Netherlands Institute of Neuroscience (Netherlands), and the John A. Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah (USA) recently published details about how they were able to successfully restore vision in a woman using a brain implant.

The scientists oversaw a series of tests with the blind volunteer to eventually recreate her vision. First, a neurosurgeon implanted a microelectrode array into her visual cortex, which was composed of 100 microneedles intended to stimulate neurons near the electrodes. The woman wore eyeglasses outfitted with a mini video camera which translated the data collected and sent to the brains electrodes. Finally, the brain simulated the image by surrounding neurons to produce white areas of light known as “phosphenes.”

A former science teacher, the woman had been blind for 16 years. No complications were seen post-op, and scientists concluded the implant did not affect brain function.

Lines, shapes, and letters were visible to the blind woman. The researchers developed a game to help her strengthen and recognize the different phosphene shapes. Because of her extensive involvement and unique insight, the woman became a co-author of the study.

Professor Eduardo Fernandez said, “These results are very exciting because they demonstrate both safety and efficacy and could help to achieve a long-held dream of many scientists, which is the transfer information from the outside world directly to the visual cortex of blind individuals, thereby restoring a rudimentary form of sight. Although these preliminary results are very encouraging, we should be aware that there are still a number of important unanswered questions and that many problems have to be solved before a cortical visual prosthesis can be considered a viable clinical therapy.”

Professor R. A. Normann, a study co-author, said, “It could allow them to identify a person, doorways, or cars. It could increase independence and safety. That’s what we’re working toward.”

Professor P. Roelfsema, a co-author in the study, said, “This new study provides proof-of-principle and demonstrates that our previous findings in monkey experiments can be translated to humans. This work is likely to become a milestone for the development of new technologies that could transform the treatment of blindness.”

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

October 13, 2021

Research Proves LASIK Adverse Events are Rare

Ophthalmology is a scientific field that is continuously performing research and studies based on the human eye. LASIK eye surgery is an imperative aspect of ophthalmology that presents patients with more benefits than risks.

A recent study published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology outlined researchers’ data analysis from roughly 37,000 laser vision correction patients who underwent either LASIK (31,921) or PRK (5,016) between July 2014 and June 2016. Data analyzed included eye examinations prior to the surgery, procedure reports, and follow-up exams.

Data on adverse events were also recorded, such as those that negatively impacted patients’ visual outcomes. Out of 37,000 patients, 34 experienced adverse side effects; 70 percent were characterized as severe. With less than one percent of patients experiencing a significant unfavorable result, each procedure showed:

LASIK (31,921 patients): 0.4 percent of patients experienced unfavorable results
PRK (5,016 patients): 0.7 percent of patients experienced unfavorable results

Of those with serious adverse effects, roughly 80 percent still achieved 20/20 (or higher) vision without glasses or contacts.

With over 20 million procedures performed throughout the United States over 20 years, research papers number greater than 7,000. Experts study vision correction effects in-depth to ensure they are safe and effective for patients. Based on the large number of patients country-wide, LASIK and PRK are excellent, viable options to improve vision for suitable candidates.

To improve your vision through LASIK, contact the ophthalmology experts at Rohr Eye & Laser Center today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

September 29, 2021

Five Most Common LASIK Questions

Laser vision correction is a viable option for many people struggling with dry eyes, foggy glasses when wearing masks, contact lens fatigue from too much screen time, and plain ol’ aging. These issues are a nuisance and can be easily remediated with LASIK.

Before most people make the jump, they ask whether LASIK is safe. The answer is simple: yes, LASIK is safe. Over 7,000 clinical studies have investigated – and verified – its safety and effectiveness. Continue reading to discover more questions and answers to the most common questions.

How does LASIK work? LASIK essentially sculpts a contact lens onto the eye’s surface, giving the patient vision as if they are looking through a contact lens without the uncomfortable feeling of a lens.

What does LASIK correct? LASIK has corrected vision conditions, including myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

Am I a good candidate? The best way to discover whether you are a good candidate for LASIK is to have a complete examination.

How many patients have 20/20 vision after LASIK? Many published studies show that roughly 96 to 99 percent of patients attain 20/20 vision or better after a laser procedure.

How long does LASIK last? Typically, the vision correction outlasts the patient. However, since eyes age with age, it might fluctuate a bit.

To learn more about how LASIK can improve your vision, contact the experts at Rohr today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

September 16, 2021

What’s the Best Age to Get LASIK?

How old do you have to be to get LASIK? The short answer: Laser vision correction procedures such as LASIK are approved for people 18-years-old and above. For an in-depth examination of the reasoning behind this, keep reading.

First, we need to examine ocular maturity and what that means regarding development. The eyes are one of the last organs to fully mature; in some people, it can take up to age 20, but for most, they are fully grown by 13. This feat, known as “achieving ocular maturity,” is considered when a patient’s eyeglass prescription remains stable for a year or more. With a consistent prescription, the likelihood of nearsightedness or farsightedness progressing is low.

Second, your vision correction options can be gauged based on how your experience with glasses or contacts has been. Most eye care professionals want to ensure you make the right decision and prefer to personally analyze you based on your habits, compromises, and vision goals. Annual eye exams are imperative to understanding whether LASIK is right for you.

Finally, it’s essential to understand that LASIK permanently reshapes the cornea, the surface of your eye. For this reason, LASIK procedures are done on people over the age of 18. The treatment has a better chance of success throughout the years if the eyes are fully developed before the procedure.

The aging process never ceases, however. While LASIK is effective for younger candidates, when people reach the age of 40, a condition called presbyopia occurs. This is categorized by a loss of flexibility in the natural lens inside your eye and can be corrected with another procedure or by simply wearing reading glasses.

While LASIK lasts for years – decades, even – it’s essential to keep up with annual visits and connect with your doctor when necessary. If your eyes aren’t mature, it’s a good idea to have a thorough evaluation to determine when you are a good candidate. If you are over 18 and have a stable prescription, your eye care professional will help you ascertain whether you are a good candidate for LASIK.

To learn more about how LASIK can improve your life by easing the stress of wearing contacts or glasses, contact the eye care professionals at Rohr Eye & Laser Center today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

August 25, 2021

Maintaining Senior Eye Health

Aging affects every part of your body, even your eyes. Age-related farsightedness, or presbyopia, occurs when the lens inside your eye begins to harden. Books and other close objects become challenging to read or see clearly. Some other age-related disorders include:

Age-related Macular Degeneration
Cataracts
Glaucoma
Diabetic Retinopathy
Dry Eye
Floaters
Changes to Peripheral Vision

Roughly half of all age-related visual loss can be managed through early diagnosis and treatment. Ensure you get routine eye exams to help prevent some of the complications listed above. Additionally, there are plenty of things you can do at home to protect your eye sight.

Diet: Well-balanced eating habits help your body in more ways than one. Your eyes are significantly affected by the foods you choose to eat. The following nutritious foods can help avert vision loss:

Vitamin A: Carrots, spinach, kale, egg yolks, dairy
Vitamin C: Citrus fruits, juices, broccoli, potatoes, green peppers
Vitamin E: Whole grains, eggs, sunflower seeds, avocado
Fatty Acids: Coldwater fish (mackerel, rainbow trout, salmon, etc.), corn oil, sunflower oil
Lutein: Kale, spinach, broccoli, brussels sprouts, corn
Zinc: Poultry, red meat, fish, dairy, whole grains

Quit smoking: The sooner, the better. Besides causing a plethora of cardiovascular and lung-related diseases, smoking greatly increases the chances of developing age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy.

Exercise: All you need is at least 20 minutes a day to stimulate your entire body by increasing blood flow. The optic nerve and retina are included in this circulatory invigoration.

Sunglasses: Ultraviolet rays emitted from the sun can cause cataracts, retina damage, and skin cancer near your eyes. Always wear sunglasses when outside.

To schedule an eye exam or learn about LASIK for seniors, contact the professionals at Rohr Eye & Laser Center today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

July 29, 2021

Why Blue Eyes are More Sensitive to Light

Brighter days in summertime bring lots of ultraviolet (UV) rays with them. All eyes should be protected from UV light, which can contribute to the formation of both short and long-term conditions like corneal sunburn and macular degeneration.

To avoid sunlight damage, ensure you protect your eyes with high-quality 100 percent UV-blocking sunglasses. While you’re at it, a hat doesn’t hurt, either. People of all ages can benefit from sunlight protection, but children are especially susceptible as they tend to spend much more time outdoors. Research shows that up to 80 percent of an average person’s total lifetime exposure to UV rays takes place during the first 18 years of life. The same research suggests that roughly 70 percent of Americans do not protect themselves from the sun’s harmful rays.

Lighter-colored eyes such as blue, hazel, and green, have less melanin than brown eyes. This pigment helps protect the retina from UV damage along with blue light, which is emitted from electrical devices. Because of the decreased melanin, those with blue eyes have a higher risk of developing UV-related eye damage.

People with blue eyes might feel uncomfortable in highly-lit areas or on a bright, sunny day. It’s imperative to grab your shades as you head outside to mitigate your chances of developing eye disease or other complications.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

July 16, 2021

How long does LASIK last?

One of the most frequently asked questions about LASIK is: “How long does it last?” Close runner up: “Is it permanent?” The answer to both questions is yes, LASIK is permanent. However, there is a slight chance you will have to wear glasses again in the future. Since your body changes through age, laser vision correction procedures cannot prevent deterioration to the ocular area.

Between the ages of seven and 23, vision changes are expected as the eyes develop and mature. Issues such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism can come and go, increase and decrease, etc., as long as the eye undergoes changes. Once vision has not changed in a year, it is considered fully mature.

However, just like the rest of your body, the eyes continue changing through time. For most people, the subtle changes are not a factor until the age of 40. At this time, people report their near-range of vision being blurry. The age-related alterations in vision are dubbed presbyopia. In time, the eye lens stiffens and becomes cloudy, which is called a cataract.

Laser vision correction procedures do not treat the lens; rather, they reshape the surface of the eye, which is known as the cornea. LASIK alters the surface of the eye permanently and can improve your vision for years. Your vision will improve, whether it be from nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. The laser reshapes the cornea, correcting the imperfections that create vision issues.

Occasionally, nearsightedness or farsightedness can occur with people going through presbyopia. Purchasing a pair of glasses to last the rest of your lifetime might not be out of the question. So yes, the eyes can change, but they won’t return to being as bad as they were before LASIK.

A recent study in the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery concluded quality-of-life and satisfaction rates stayed high five years following LASIK, according to patient-reported data. The study also reported over 94 percent of patients were not wearing distance prescription lenses five years after undergoing LASIK.

To learn more about LASIK or schedule a consultation, contact the experts at Rohr Eye & Laser Center today.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

May 28, 2021

The Eyes Are a Window into the Soul – and Alzheimer’s Disease

A new study shows that the eyes are telltale signs for understanding diseases of the brain. Scientists at the UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences found that retinal scans can distinguish vital changes in blood vessels that might provide an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease. These scans provide insight into how one of the most common Alzheimer’s risk genes (APOE4) gives way to the disease.

Fanny Elahi, MD, Ph.D., assistant professor of neurology, member of the UCSF Memory and Aging Center (MAC) and lead author of the study, said, “The most prevalent genetic risk for Alzheimer’s disease is a variant of the APOE gene, known as APOE4. We still don’t fully understand how this variant increases risk of brain degeneration, we just know that it does, and that this risk is modified by sex, race, and lifestyle. Our research provides new insights into how APOE4 impacts blood vessels and may provide a path forward for early detection of neurodegenerative disease.”

The effects of APOE4 capillaries in the brain have been studied in mice. Elahi has long suspected these tiny blood vessels might play a crucial role in Alzheimer’s disease due to their important functions through the blood-brain barrier, such as delivering nutrients and oxygen, ridding the body of waste, and monitoring immune system responses. Elahi says damage to these blood vessels could lead to multiple issues, including the protein buildup and cognitive decline seen in Alzheimer’s patients. Since we cannot visualize individual capillaries in living peoples’ brains, Elahi focused on the eyes instead.

Through a non-invasive eye scan, APOE4-associated capillary changes were detected in humans. Light-penetrating tissue shares biology with the brain, so researchers believe the retina might help establish APOE4 variants and how similar capillaries inside the brain are affected.

After analyzing the retinal scans, a reduced capillary density in APOE4 carriers was found, signifying an effect that increased with age. The team also compared the abnormalities found in the retinal scans to brain perfusion and found that people with higher density retinal capillary density also had greater brain blood flow.

Elahi said, “This is the first time that we have demonstrated in living, asymptomatic humans that the smallest blood vessels are affected in APOE4 gene carriers. That’s important because it suggests that the increased risk of brain degeneration and Alzheimer’s disease in APOE4 carriers might be through its effect on blood vessels. This is just the beginning. But the implications for early detection and possible intervention can be significant in combatting Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. It’s much harder to regenerate neurons than to stop their degeneration from happening in the first place. Similar to cancer, early detection can save lives.”

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.