The Royal Surrey County Hospital expands Lucentis® service

This summer the Royal Surrey has expanded its Lucentis® service for the treatment of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD).

AMD affects nearly half a million people in the UK and half have experienced severe visual impairment.  People who have AMD can find it hard to read, write and recognise faces.  AMD is treated by injection into the eye called Lucentis®.   The Royal Surrey provides a personalised service for every patient, individually tailoring treatment to suit each individual case. Patients must be referred for Lucentis® treatment by their GP or optician.

There are two types of AMD; wet and dry.  Wet AMD occurs quickly and is characterised by sudden changes in vision, distortion and deterioration of sight.   The symptoms of Dry AMD occur gradually with a loss of central vision and distortion.  Dry AMD never affects peripheral vision. 

Mr Keenan, Consultant Ophthalmologist said:

"The symptoms for the patient depend on the type of AMD being experienced; it can be different in each eye.  Therefore it is important to examine each eye individually and provide each patient with a service specific to their condition.  Early referral to a specialist unit, such as the Royal Surrey, is crucial. "

Lucentis® is approved by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE).  The treatment involves three injections to the eye, each a month apart.

Mr Keenan continues:

"If further injections are required, appointments will be set at appropriate times based on what is clinically required for the patient.  The results are extremely encouraging, particularly if patients are referred early, ideally as soon as possible after their symptoms develop."

Royal Surrey AMD patient Frederick Batty, 88, says:

"It's superb.  The treatment and staff are marvellous!"

For further information about AMD and the Lucentis® treatment available at the Royal Surrey County hospital please contact the eye clinic on 01483 402895.