Monday, June 22, 2009

Treating Amblyopia in Adults

by Dr Levinger

What is Amblyopia?
Amblyopia, otherwise known as "lazy eye", defines a condition that is characterized by the inadequacy of visual acuity classically occurring in one eye. Even with eyeglasses or contact lenses, visual acuity does not exceed 6/9. Amblyopia develops when the eye does not develop adequate visual acuity during early childhood. Several underlying causes can be responsible for the development of Amblyopia, strabismus (crossed eyes) being one of the major contributors. The condition itself is due to a failure of the brain to work in conjunction with the eyes for the purpose of developing clear visual images during early stages of development. (Amblyopia usually occurs in one eye but can occur in both.) As a result, the brain ignores a poor visual image received from the affected eye, and favors the eye that provides a clearer image.
What is the NeuroVision technique?
The NeuroVision technique is an effective non-surgical solution of treating Amblyopia for adults. The method is based on improving vision by visually stimulating the cells that comprise the image processing system in the brain, the primary visual cortex. Consequently, corrective channels are developed by the brain to receive a clear visual image, thereby enhancing visual acuity and quality. For many years there have been several attempts to develop an effective treatment for adults with Amblyopia. At first, the Neurovision technique was not considered as a method for treating adults with Amblyopia, but as of late, this method has proved extremely successful for just this purpose. The uniqueness of this non-invasive technique offers a safe and effective alternative to a population of people whose options for treatment were extremely limited.
Mode of Treatment
Once the information obtained during compatibility testing is entered, the NeuroVision system creates a personalized treatment plan and exercise program for the patient. The patient can conduct the majority of treatment sessions at home using his PC (computer). At the end of each treatment, the results are transmitted to Enaim's central control system via Internet. The control system processes the information and tailors each following treatment for the patient according to the rate of progress. The customized exercise sessions stimulate the visual centers of the brain to receive the visual images, thereby resulting in improved visual acuity and quality.
Compatibility Test
This comprehensive examination is essential for the success of the treatment. The examination includes a review of the patient's medical history, corneal topography, measuring of visual acuity and quality, an examination of three-dimensional vision, an review of a candidate's eyeglass prescription and a comprehensive examination by an expert ophthalmologist. At the conclusion of this process, the physician will summarize the findings, thereby creating an effective treatment plan.
Who is a suitable candidate?
People suffering from Amblyopia, aged 9-55 years, whose visual acuity ranges between 6/9-6/30. The treatment will not be suitable for people suffering from eye disorders such as cataract, glaucoma, keratoconus, corneal problems, nystagmus, and retinal problems. Additionally disqualified are those with epilepsy and pregnant women.
Advantages of the Technique
• The treatment is non-invasive. • The treatment is not painful. • The treatment provides flexibility - the majority of treatments can be conducted at home. • The treatment has received approvals from the Israeli Ministry of Health, the FDA, and the Mark CE (the European standard).
The NeuroVision technique for treating Amblyopia is exclusively offered by the Enaim Medical Centers.

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