New cutting-edge treatment for glaucoma set to improve lives of hundreds of patients across Dudley

The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Russells Hall Hospital, has announced that selective laser trabeculoplasty is now available as one of many treatments for patients with glaucoma.

The new laser machine was unveiled by trust chairman Sir David Nicholson and chief of surgery Babar Elahi, during World Sight Day and patients have already begun to use it.

It is estimated that the trust will complete around 300-350 laser treatments every year.

Mr Elahi said: “This recommended shift in clinical practice not only aims to reduce the dependency on eye drops for patients but also promises to enhance their quality of life by providing a wider array of treatment options.

"It marks a significant stride towards better managing and treating glaucoma for our valued patients.

“We look forward to providing this cutting-edge treatment and improving the lives of those affected by glaucoma in our community.”

Sir David said: “Here in Dudley we deliver excellent health care and this new glaucoma treatment shows that we are focusing on innovative solutions to help our patients both now and into the future.”

Glaucoma is a lifelong and potentially sight-threatening condition and around 10 per cent of individuals in the UK who experience vision loss do so as a result of the condition.

The damage usually occurs from increased pressure within the eye, which can be reduced through the new selective laser treatment.

In accordance with guidelines issued by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) on glaucoma management, patients newly diagnosed with glaucoma and ocular hypertension will now be offered selective laser trabeculoplasty as the first-line treatment.