Ophthalmology

The Department of Ophthalmology is a medical specialty responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of eye-related diseases. The primary goal of the Ophthalmology Department is to prevent vision loss through the early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of ocular conditions. It is an essential medical field dedicated to protecting eye health and providing effective solutions for eye-related problems. ⸻ Main Function of Ophthalmology Ophthalmic diseases are conditions that affect eye health and visual function. These disorders may arise from structural abnormalities of the eye, infections, inflammations, tumors, or other systemic or local diseases. Eye diseases can impair vision, negatively affect daily life, and may even lead to permanent vision loss. Untreated eye conditions can progress and result in serious complications. Therefore, early diagnosis and timely treatment of eye diseases are crucial. Regular eye examinations and adherence to recommended treatments are essential for maintaining eye health. ⸻ Purpose of Ophthalmology The purpose of ophthalmology is to preserve visual health and improve quality of life by diagnosing and treating eye disorders that may occur in the eyes. ⸻ Conditions Treated in Ophthalmology 1. Myopia (nearsightedness) 2. Hyperopia (farsightedness) 3. Astigmatism (irregular focusing of light on the retina) 4. Presbyopia (age-related near vision impairment) 5. Cataract (clouding of the eye’s natural lens) 6. Glaucoma (elevated intraocular pressure) 7. Retinal diseases (e.g., age-related macular degeneration) 8. Lacrimal and tear drainage system disorders (e.g., dry eye syndrome, nasolacrimal duct obstruction) 9. Corneal diseases and infections (e.g., keratoconus, keratitis) 10. Conjunctival diseases and infections (e.g., conjunctivitis) 11. Eyelid diseases and infections (e.g., chalazion, hordeolum) 12. Strabismus (misalignment of the eyes) 13. Uveitis ⸻ Eye Surgeries 1. Cataract Surgery: Cataract is an eye disease caused by clouding of the eye’s natural lens over time or as a result of trauma. Cataract surgery is a surgical procedure performed to restore blurred vision. During the operation, the cloudy lens is removed and usually replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). 2. Retinal Surgery: The retina is the light-sensitive layer located at the back of the eye. Surgical intervention may be required for various retinal conditions such as retinal detachment, retinal tears, and retinal holes. These procedures aim to reattach and stabilize the retina. 3. Glaucoma Surgery: Glaucoma is a condition caused by impaired circulation of intraocular fluid, leading to increased intraocular pressure. Glaucoma surgeries aim to reduce intraocular pressure and prevent optic nerve damage. 4. Superficial Keratoplasty (Corneal Transplantation): The cornea is the transparent outer layer of the eye. In certain corneal diseases (such as keratoconus or corneal injuries), corneal transplantation may be required. Superficial keratoplasty includes replacement of either a thin layer of the cornea (lamellar keratoplasty) or the full thickness of the cornea (penetrating keratoplasty). 5. Strabismus Surgery: Strabismus is caused by misalignment of the eyes due to imbalance of the eye muscles. Strabismus surgery aims to correct eye alignment by adjusting the eye muscles. 6. Eyelid Surgery: Surgical correction may be performed for eyelid conditions such as drooping eyelids, cysts, or tumors. 7. Surgery for Tear Duct Obstruction: In children up to two years of age, probing and lavage procedures may be performed. In adults, traditional nasolacrimal duct obstruction surgery can be used to restore tear drainage. 8. Pterygium Surgery: Pterygium, commonly known as “surfer’s eye” or growth of tissue on the eye, can be completely removed through surgical intervention. These are some of the most commonly performed ophthalmic surgeries. However, the most appropriate treatment method and the timing of surgery should be determined based on the patient’s condition and the type of disease. Therefore, consulting an ophthalmologist is essential to obtain accurate information and personalized treatment planning. ⸻ Surgeries and Procedures Performed at Our Hospital 1. Cataract surgery 2. Strabismus surgery (inward or outward deviation of the eye) 3. Tear duct obstruction surgeries 4. Eyelid surgeries 5. Pterygium surgeries 6. Corneal cross-linking (CXL) procedure 7. Retinal tear repair with Argon laser 8. YAG laser iridotomy and capsulotomy procedures