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Nerve fiber analysis,
in combination with the latest strategies in visual field testing,
such as SWAP and Sita, have allowed for a significant improvement
in our ability to evaluate the presence or progression of
glaucomatous optic atrophy. It has been estimated that nerve
fiber analysis can detect damage 2 years prior to traditional
white on white perimetry. This may be especially important
in patients with ocular hypertension or a family history of
glaucoma. These tests are all available at the North Shore
Glaucoma Center and can be performed either alone or as part of a
consultation with Dr. Savitt or Dr. Jacobs. |
Dr.
Savitt was the first physician in Illinois to use
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) to treat patients with
chronic open angle glaucoma. Currently, he is the only
glaucoma specialist in Lake County to have access to this exciting
new technology, and this is the only practice where the physicians
perform the SLT in their office. The
advantage over traditional argon laser
trabeculoplasty is that SLT is repeatable. Multiple studies
demonstrate that SLT is effective in patients who have failed
previous ALT or in patients on maximally tolerated medical
therapy. At the North Shore Glaucoma Center, SLT has allowed
many of our patients to avoid additional medications or filtering
surgery. |
Management of patients with complicated and refractory glaucoma
will often require surgical intervention. Dr. Savitt has
been performing and teaching glaucoma surgery, including filtering
surgery with antimetabolites and releasable sutures, seton
implantation and cyclodestructive procedures, since 1992.
Close post-operative care and management of complications are
integral to the care provided at the North Shore Glaucoma Center.
Second opinions regarding the need for surgery are welcome.
Surgery can be performed in hospitals throughout the North Shore
and at Rush-Presbyterian St. Luke's in Chicago. |