


How
We Use Technology
A key component in quality care is technology, but technology is only as useful as the skills and the knowledge of the physician interpreting it.
From the moment you walk in the door, you will
be introduced to state-of-the-art technology
in eye exams, laser treatments, and eye care education.
Optos System
Optos:
This widefield visual imaging is unique, and we have incorporated
this technology since 1999-to better serve our patients. Actually we were the 1st ophthalmology practice in the state of Washington to use it.
With this latest technology, dilation is no longer
necessary. The Optos system utilizes state-of-the-
art laser technology to capture an image of the back of the eye quickly and easily without the need
to dilate the pupil.
The Optomap's ultra-wide view allows your doctor to confirm your retinal health, or discover signs of abnormalities or disease. The Optomap just takes minutes to perform; it is fast, painless, and comfortable for patients. It is particularly helpful when you return for your annual exam as it provides a permanent record of the condition of your retina. Your doctor will compare each year's Optomap image side by side to discover even subtle changes and monitor your continuing eye health. Early detection of retinal disorders is critical to preventing serious progression and loss of vision.
Detecting disease with the Optomap retinal exam-
Epic:
Another of the most recent developments in eye care
technology, the EPIC is a faster and more accurate method of testing refractive
error, including near sightedness, far-sightedness and astigmatism. With its
speed and superior performance, the EPIC accurately measures the refractive power by using built-in charts and corrective lenses. The EPIC allows for
more accurate and precise refractions in less than half of the time of the
conventional method. It uses three separate computers that are integrated
to work together.
Heidelberg Retina Tomograph III:
For many decades, the diagnosis
of glaucoma largely rested on measuring the pressure in the eyes and a test
called the visual field test. It is now widely recognized that a change in
the shape of the optic nerve can be detected in some people five or more
years before any other changes can be detected. The HRT is a new
laser
scanning system that provides just that- the most accurate measurement of
the shape of the optic nerve available today. This system uses scanning laser
tomography to produce the 3-dimensional images, which allow precise measurements
of optic nerve. The HRT III is arguably the best system available
that helps differentiate between normal eyes and early glaucoma long before field defects are present.
Octopus Visual Field Test:
A modern and faster method of
testing your field of vision, this Swiss system is known for providing
excellent statistical information while giving most patients utmost comfort
during the exam. While the more commonly
used automated field of vision tests do not even detect whether your eyes are
closed or blinking, this system constantly monitors your eye position for more
accurate results. During an Octopus examination, a light point is presented to
you in a predetermined fashion in a lighted bowl and you will be asked to press
a button when you see the light point. The responses are then analyzed statistically
and compared with a database of normal responses.
Goldmann Perimeter:
The Goldmann Visual Field is an older
form of testing the visual field out to the periphery. When performed by
a skilled administrator of the test, areas that need further testing can
be investigated. This test is particularly suited to the older patient and
those who suffer from eye system diseases that affect principally the side
vision. It takes many years to train a technician well in administering this
test, but this third test for investigating glaucoma is often the only method
of testing older patients, or patients with arthritis or early Alzheimer's
disease. We are proud to be one of a handful of offices left in Washington
State able to perform this test to such a high degree of accuracy. Patients
benefit from the training Dr. Boys Smith received in Munich Eye Clinic for
much of this expertise, considered in ophthalmology to be an almost lost
art.
Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT):
It's a common procedure used to treat glaucoma. When ALT is done, your eye MD uses a laser to treat the drainage pathways (the trabecular meshwork) in your eye. The procedure can lower the pressure in your eye
and may help prevent more damage to the optic nerve and further loss of vision. Your MD uses eyedrops to numb your eye. A special contact lens is put on your eye to help direct the laser's beam of light at the trabecular meshwork in your eye. The laser makes 50 to 100 evenly spaced burns. You may see a few brief flashes of light and feel little, if any, discomfort. The procedure usually takes less than 10 minutes. You may be able to go home soon after it is done.
YAG Laser:
A YAG laser capsulotomy is a procedure in which your eye MD uses a laser to make a cut in the capsule of your eye after cataract surgery. The capsule is the thin, clear membrane that holds the lens in place. The
opening makes a clear opening for light rays to pass through. If the capsule has become cloudy after cataract surgery, this procedure can help you see better. The procedure can be done in only a few minutes. First, your eye MD numbs your eye with eyedrops and then puts in another kind of eyedrop to lower your eye pressure. Next, your eye MD may place a special lens over the surface of your eye. Then the laser painlessly creates an opening in the capsule. The laser is so precise that it does not affect other parts of your eye.
Eyemaginations 3D-Eye Office
We offer 3D-Eye Office, powered by Eyemaginations, which is a 3D-animated software program designed to enhance patient communication and increase awareness of products and services offered within our clinic. Through the use of narration, music and 3D animation, this interactive program allows us to educate,
train, as well as entertain patients on a variety of topics such as glaucoma, astigmatism, macular degeneration, corneal neovascularization, cataracts just to name a few.
American Academy of Ophthalmology
We carry a full line of colorful, informative brochures by the American Academy of Ophthalmology to better
educate our patients. These brochures provide extensive information on any particular eye related condition, disease, refraction errors and there correction (glasses and contact lenses), surgeries (both traditional and laser), learning disabilities, and eye saftey for children.
Patient Education and Surgery Consultation
Our Surgical Consult and Patient Education Room is dedicated for our patients that have or are thinking about having surgery. Our ophthalmic technician will explain the details and process of treatment and or surgery that our eye doctor discussed with you. Through our variety of videos, models, computer software and diagrams that we have in our consultation and education room, we are better able to explain to you such procedures and answer any questions you may have. Our room provides the privacy and comfort that many of our patients seek. Parents who are having their child seen by one of our physicians or Orothoptist, will generally be given a lengthy consultation about their child's eye treatment plan ensuring that all aspects of the child's condition and treatment is fully understood. Our philosophy is a better educated patient leads to a happier patient