Glaucoma Clinic

Specialist Glaucoma Service at Reynolds & Slater Opticians

At Reynolds & Slater Opticians in Penzance and Falmouth, we are proud to offer a comprehensive and specialist glaucoma service led by our Independent Prescribing Optometrist, Marcus Slater.

With a wealth of experience in managing complex eye health conditions, Marcus is dedicated to providing the highest level of care for those living with glaucoma or at risk of developing it.

Our glaucoma service is powered by the latest advancements in diagnostic technology from ZEISS Medi-Tech, ensuring the most accurate and up-to-date assessments. Through state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, Marcus is able to offer thorough eye health evaluations, early detection, and tailored treatment options for glaucoma patients.

Cutting-Edge Diagnostic Equipment

At the heart of our glaucoma service is the use of ZEISS’s world-renowned diagnostic equipment, which allows us to detect glaucoma earlier and monitor disease progression with pinpoint precision. This includes:

ZEISS Clarus Ultra Wide Field
Eye Scans:

This advanced imaging technology captures highly detailed and wide-field images of the retina, offering a complete view of the eye and helping us to detect subtle signs of glaucoma or other retinal conditions.

ZEISS Cirrus OCT
(Optical Coherence Tomography):

This 3D scan of the retina and optic nerve enables us to observe the structures of the eye in incredibly fine detail. The Cirrus OCT allows for precise measurement of the thickness of the retina and optic nerve, which are critical markers in diagnosing glaucoma.

Humphrey Visual Field Machine

The Humphrey Visual Field Analyzer is an essential tool for evaluating the visual field—the area you can see while focusing on a central point. This test is crucial for detecting conditions like glaucoma, optic nerve damage, and other neurological issues that affect vision. By using the Humphrey Visual Field machine, we can monitor subtle changes in your vision, ensuring any potential issues are caught early.

ZEISS Forum Software with
Glaucoma and Retina Workplace

Our ZEISS Forum software allows us to seamlessly integrate and analyse data from our diagnostic equipment. With dedicated workspaces for glaucoma and retina health, the Forum system provides us with in-depth, comparative data that enhances our ability to diagnose and manage eye diseases effectively. This platform helps us monitor patient progress and adjust treatment plans as needed, ensuring the highest quality of care.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is essential for vision.

The most common form, Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma (POAG), typically occurs when the fluid pressure inside the eye increases, leading to damage of the optic nerve over time.

There are several forms of glaucoma, including:

Ocular Hypertension:
When the pressure inside the eye is higher than normal, but no damage to the optic nerve has occurred yet.
Suspect Glaucoma:
When there are signs or risk factors indicating potential glaucoma, but the condition hasn't been fully diagnosed.
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma:
Where the drainage angle in the eye is open but the eye pressure is too high and has caused damage to the optic nerve.
Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma:
A more acute form of glaucoma where the drainage angle of the eye is blocked, causing a sudden rise in eye pressure that can lead to rapid vision loss if not treated immediately.

Treatment Options for Glaucoma

While there is currently no cure for glaucoma, early detection and appropriate management can help slow or prevent significant vision loss.

Medical Treatment:
The first line of treatment for most types of glaucoma is medication, typically in the form of eye drops that help lower intraocular pressure (IOP). As an Independent Prescribing Optometrist, Marcus is fully qualified to prescribe these medications and monitor their effectiveness.
Laser Treatment:
For certain types of glaucoma, laser treatment can be used to improve the drainage of fluid from the eye and reduce pressure. Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is commonly used for open-angle glaucoma, while Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI) may be used for angle-closure glaucoma.
Surgical Treatment:
In cases where medical and laser treatments are not sufficient, surgical options may be considered. These can include procedures to create new drainage pathways for the eye fluid, such as Trabeculectomy or Tube Shunt Surgery. These surgeries aim to lower intraocular pressure and prevent further optic nerve damage.

Co-Management with
Local Ophthalmology Colleagues

For patients with more complex or advanced forms of glaucoma, Marcus works closely with local ophthalmology specialists to ensure comprehensive care and can provide referral to Consultant Ophthalmology colleages. Through co-management, we can offer the most up-to-date treatment options and provide ongoing monitoring to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients with glaucoma.

Why Choose Our Glaucoma Service?

Experienced Care
Led by Marcus Slater, an Independent Prescribing Optometrist with a specialisation in glaucoma, our service offers expert diagnosis, treatment, and management.
State-of-the-Art Equipment::
We use the latest diagnostic tools from ZEISS to provide the most accurate assessments and early detection of glaucoma.
Comprehensive Monitoring:
Our ZEISS FORUM platform enables us to track changes in your eye health over time, ensuring precision and the best possible care.
Holistic Approach:
We offer personalised treatment plans tailored to your specific condition and needs, ensuring the highest quality of care.

If you are at risk of glaucoma, or have been diagnosed with the condition, Marcus Slater
and our team at Reynolds & Slater Opticians
are here to help.

Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive glaucoma assessment and start your journey toward better eye health.