Hospital uses new eye surgery equipment
Rusk County Memorial Hospital is now using a state of the art Infinity Vision System for cataract removal.
The machine, called a phacoemulsifier, offers many new advances over standard cataract removal equipment and provides ophthalmologists the ability to customize surgical techniques for each patient.
According to Pat Somerville, RN, Operating Room Coordinator, Rusk County Memorial is the first hospital in the area to offer this new equipment to patients.
"Our goal of excellence in patient care mandates that we remain on the forefront of new technology and training in the ever changing medical field. The Operating Room staff has extensive training with this equipment and are very familiar and comfortable with its use," said Somerville.
Advancements in cataract surgery using the Infinity system include:
Smaller incisions that rarely necessitate a stitch.
State-of-the-art hand piece employs side-to-side movements, rather than the traditional "jackhammer style" to break apart the cataract. This better maintains eye shape and decreases risk of thermal injury to the eye.
Ability to monitor and adjust fluid levels within the eye during surgery that decreases the risk of complications.
Enhanced surgical control, greater efficiency and faster surgery times can lead to better safety for patients and improved surgical outcomes.
Jeffrey Brown, MD, and Peter Holm, MD, ophthalmologists from Chippewa Valley Eye Clinic, have successfully performed approximately 12 surgeries per month using the new system at RCMH since late spring.
Dr. Brown affirmed, "This new machine is the best I have ever used. It is a real improvement in the way we remove cataracts."
Dr. Brown and Dr. Holm are available to see patients at Rusk County Memorial Hospital up to eight times a month. To set up an appointment, please call Chippewa Valley Eye Clinic at 715-723-9375.
A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye that obstructs the passage of light. Surgery is often required to correct the problem. Factors that contribute to cataract formation include advanced age, inordinate exposure to sunlight or radiation and diabetes. Eye trauma can also lead to the development of cataracts.