AUSTRALIAN-first technology is transforming the eyesight – and lives – of seniors in the Redlands and Bayside.
Mater Private Hospital Redland has become the first hospital in the country to use the SeeLuma digital microscope for cataract surgery and other eye procedures, giving patients clearer vision and faster recoveries.
Cataracts affect around 400,000 Australians, with 93 per cent of people aged over 65 developing the condition at some point in their lives.
Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, causing blurred or foggy vision.
The SeeLuma system combines a digital microscope and a 55-inch high-definition monitor, giving surgeons and operating theatre staff an enhanced, large-scale view of the patient’s eye.
Ophthalmologist Dr Sunil Warrier was the first surgeon in Australia to use the SeeLuma system and says it’s changing the game when it comes to cataract procedures.
“This technology is a game-changer for conditions like cataracts,” Dr Warrier said.
“It provides a vastly improved view of the surgical area for me and the operating theatre staff.
“When surgeons can see better, we can perform neater and cleaner surgery.
“The operating theatre staff can also monitor and better anticipate the surgery too.
“This enables us to perform more surgeries and treat more patients, which is so important as demand for cataract surgery grows.”
Wellington Point resident Malcolm Knight, 71, was among the first patients to undergo cataract surgery using the new SeeLuma system after a routine optometrist appointment revealed his declining vision.
The condition had already impacted his driving.
“That was a real kick up the derrière – I knew I had to do something about it,” Mr Knight said.
“Without a licence, I wouldn’t be able to see my stepdaughter and her family in Gympie or take my wife out, and she relies on me to drive.”
Referred to Redlands Eye Specialists, Mr Knight underwent successful surgery on both eyes with Dr Warrier – and the results were immediate.
“The first thing I noticed was how vibrant colours are and how sharp my vision is,” he said.
“My driving licence is back to unrestricted and so my wife and I can go touring again.
“I’m not restricted in what I can do anymore – I have my freedom back.”
