June 20, 2012
Eye Clinic of Austin Implements QuantifEye - Key New Technology for Macular Pigment Measurement
The Importance of Macular Health
A growing number of baby boomers understand the potential effects of aging on their eyesight and are therefore motivated to take action to maintain their independence. Studies show that today’s “older” Americans are far more active for much longer than previous generations. They stay in the workforce longer and have more hobbies and interests. Some studies among this group report that loss of independence is actually feared more than death. So, when older patients are able to drive safely and more confidently, handle bright light easier, read with less strain, and reduce the risk of age related macular degeneration – that is big news.
MACULAR PIGMENT AND MACULAR HEALTH
Macular pigment is composed of photo-protectants and antioxidants. An apple provides a great example of how antioxidants provide protection. The skin of the apple protects the inside until it is sliced open and exposed to oxygen. When this occurs, the inside turns brown via a process known as oxidation. A similar process occurs in our eyes over time as we age.
Dr. Thomas Henderson says, “Macular pigments are like the eye’s ʽinternal sunglassesʼ. Thick, dense, ʽinternal sunglassesʼ block the harmful blue part of the light spectrum that damages one’s eyes across their lifetime. We are pleased to be the first ophthalmology practice in Austin to introduce the QuantifEye non-invasive system for measuring macular pigment optical density.”
INTERVIEW/SEGMENT OP:
Dr. Henderson is available for in-studio talks about this advanced new technology and how it works, as well as all topics related to healthy vision. Please contact Jonna Kieler at 303.447.9192 for further information or scheduling.
Eye Clinic of Austin
Eye Clinic of Austin was founded in January, 1982 by Dr. Thomas Henderson. Dr. Henderson has been involved in all aspects of optical, medical, and surgical patient care, community service through twenty-five years of emergency call at University Medical Center (Brackenridge), drug research and medical lecturing. Dr. Henderson has personally performed over 11,500 cataract and refractive surgery procedures.
Eye Clinic of Austin offers refractive procedures such as blade-free, all-laser LASIK and Intraocular Lens-based procedures such as cataract surgery. Eye Clinic of Austin also provides general eye care such as medical, laser and surgical glaucoma management, diabetic eye care, dry eye relief, as well as a full-service optical shop, and routine and specialty contact lens care and fitting. The doctors at Eye Clinic of Austin include Thomas T. Henderson, MD, FACS, Clayton L. Falknor, MD, and Melanie Prosise, OD.
