Ophthalmology and vision care look much different today than in years past with the advent of modern technology and revolutionary discoveries in the field. We sat down with Dr. Jordan Burnham — one of our board-certified ophthalmologists at Louisiana Retina — to discuss the latest innovations in vision care, vision tech, and how Louisiana Retina stays ahead of the curve.
Dr. Jordan Burnham on Vision Care and Tech
Q: Let’s start with a hard-hitting question. What are some of the biggest innovations in vision care technology you’ve seen in the last few years? Can you explain what they entail and why they are game-changing?
Dr. Burnham: The landscape in medical and surgical treatment for retina conditions is always changing. In the medical treatment world, we’re excited to see newer and better intravitreal injections coming out. These medicines do a better job at controlling diseases like age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, with fewer treatments needed.
Surgically, our vitrectomy machines have advanced to using microscopically small instruments that can be used inside the eye with less trauma. Also, there have been advancements in subretinal gene therapy drug delivery systems that are quite impressive.
Q: So, what innovative or high-quality equipment do you use at Louisiana Retina?
Dr. Burnham: We strive to maintain the best equipment and technologies at all times. New isn’t necessarily better, so we make sure to use equipment that has been through rigorous testing and has proven to be safe and effective. We don’t just want cool technology in our clinic; we want it to actually be helpful for our patients.
Q: That’s amazing! With so much new technology constantly emerging, how do you stay connected to what’s going on in the world of vision tech and vision care innovation?
Dr. Burnham: Well, retina surgery is a small field, so we’re able to stay connected with colleagues all over the world. Just like social media has connected people across the globe, we have networks of surgeons around the globe to help collaborate and stay current. Also, our field has numerous ongoing robust clinical trials which we are constantly monitoring.
Q: Collaboration and connection are key. In your own opinion, why is it important to stay ahead of the curve?
Dr. Burnham: The inside of the eye is very delicate. Any damage to the retina can be permanent. So, we want to stay up to date to try and do everything we can to repair our patients’ vision and prevent permanent damage. What may seem like a small advancement to some people could be a life-changing improvement in a patient’s daily life if it protects their eyesight.
Q: Do you have any go-to resources you’d like to share with others who want to learn about vision tech and innovations in the vision care industry?
Dr. Burnham: The American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Retina Specialists are the two main resources I would recommend.
Q: Thank you for your insight, Dr. Burnham. Wrapping up, is there anything else you’d like to share?
Dr. Burnham: Vision loss is a profound experience. It affects every aspect of human life. It can be emotional, spiritual, psychologic, in addition to physical. It impacts those who are close to you since you may need help with daily activities, such as transportation.
We understand this impact and have a passion to respect and treat the whole person. We want our patients to know that we will be there for them through the whole process of vision treatment and recovery.
Please schedule your appointment today with Louisiana Retina to achieve greater vision health.