When innovative laser technology and glaucoma meet at a public hospital

The Ophthalmology Department of Hillel Yaffe Medical Center recently took a major stride forward with two advanced laser devices that use selective “cold” laser technology to lower intraocular pressure. This is some of the most cutting-edge technology today for the treatment of intraocular pressure due to glaucoma. The cost of the devices is approximately NIS 400,000 and Friends of Hillel Yaffe Medical Center helped fund the purchase.  

“This is a laser used to treat glaucoma,” explained Dr. Beatrice Tiosano, Director of Hillel Yaffe's Ophthalmology Department and a glaucoma specialist. “The device uses advanced and precise selective “cold” laser technology that makes it possible to lower intraocular pressure, with minimal peripheral damage, without ophthalmic inflammation, and also enables treatment in more complex cases of glaucoma. It is one of the most advanced treatments currently available for the treatment of intraocular pressure,” she said.

Standing next to the new device, from right to left:
Dr. Mickey Dudkiewicz - Director General of Hillel Yaffe Medical Center,
Mr. Moshe Morag - Chairman, Friends of Hillel Yaffe Medical Center,
Dr. Beatrice Tiosano - Director of the Ophthalmology Department,
Dr. Amnon Ben Moshe - Administrative Director

Mr. Moshe Morag, Chairman of Friends of Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, stated that he was delighted with the purchase and that the association was able to provide assistance that is “eye opening” for patients.

It is important to note that up until now this technology was generally only available in private healthcare settings. These laser treatments allow intraocular pressure to be lowered in glaucoma patients, without requiring additional medication therapy. Furthermore, the treatments facilitate a reduction in the number of medications a glaucoma patient takes to reduce intraocular pressure. Sometimes, the laser treatment even enables glaucoma surgery to be delayed.

The advantages of the innovative treatment are the lack of local side effects such as redness and sensitivity caused by prolonged use of glaucoma medications, the possibility of repeat treatments, as damage is not caused to the tissue and, mainly, surgical intervention that is not invasive, with minimal damage to tissue.

As aforementioned, the service is provided at a public hospital, but requires a referral from the attending physician, an examination to determine suitability for the procedure and financial commitment forms from the HMO.

For further information, scheduling an appointment and questions, please call: 04-6304528, 04-6304458, Fax: 04-6304922- Office, Ophthalmology Outpatient Clinics.