A Focus on Local Glaucoma Care

When it comes to preserving vision, few things are as important as identification of glaucoma. However, newer treatment modalities are also giving hope to people with later stage disease. Lehigh Valley Institute for Surgical Excellence recently added two fellowship-trained glaucoma specialists who provide advanced ophthalmologic care at LVPG Ophthalmology–Emrick Blvd.: Joanna Olson, MD, and Samantha Sauerzopf, MD. Drs. Olson and Sauerzopf provide surgical care at Lehigh Valley Health Network–Highland Avenue.

Services offered include painless diagnostic imaging, condition monitoring, medication management and laser surgeries designed to prevent excess fluid buildup and relieve pressure on the optic nerve.

“We also pay close attention to systemic issues, working with primary care physicians, endocrinologists and other specialists to make sure we make the right decisions regarding a patient’s eyes,” Dr. Olson says.

While most people present at older ages with glaucoma that progresses slowly, glaucoma can be aggressive in the young, Dr. Sauerzopf explains.

“These cases, typically caused by inflammatory autoimmune disease, require rapid intervention. There are also cases where patients pass most regular screenings and even have normal eye pressures,” she says. “These diagnoses can require a lot of face time and education to make sure patients understand why they need treatment.”

Dr. Sauerzopf adds that glaucoma treatment can be anything from drops and monitoring to shunt placement.

“It’s really important to have treatment available locally as well. Especially with surgery, because you need to see your patients the day after a procedure and follow-ups every week for six weeks,” she explains. “That can be a big drain on patients if they have to travel.”

Significant care advancements It’s an exciting time for specialists at the forefront of glaucoma care, Dr. Olson says.

“The last six to 10 years have seen significant advances in treatment. Many procedures that used to be major surgeries are now minimally invasive, and we have newer modalities, like injectable medications,” she says. “That means we have more options and can intervene earlier.”

Dr. Sauerzopf agrees, noting the importance of specialized screening using the latest imaging techniques.

“Especially when a patient has a history of glaucoma in their family, it’s best to get them checked as soon as possible,” she says.