Vision-threatening diseases often have no outward signs or symptoms in the early stages, so our practice utilizes Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – state-of-the-art technology – to assess the health of your eyes. The Wellness Exam is a quick, non-invasive scan that allows us to see beneath the surface of your retina. This unique technology can help us to detect vision-threatening diseases in their early stages when they are most treatable. It will also allow us to set a benchmark for the state of your retinas so that we can detect any future changes to the health of your eyes. When appropriate, Dr. Horwitz will utilize the OCT to run additional diagnostic tests (that are usually covered by medical or vision insurance plans). These will be used to assess and track various eye conditions.
Dr. Horwitz measures cone cell function as a proactive step toward long-term eye health. In her goal to be proactive, Dr. Horwitz brought the Rabin Cone Test into her practice. The Rabin Cone Test is a revolutionary new test that detects subtle changes in the cone cells within your eyes. Cone cells serve two roles. They allow us to see in sharp detail and allow us to see in color. In the early part of a disease, when our cone cells become sick or begin to die, we can still see in sharp detail. You will likely be unaware that any change is taking place. You could lose up to 50% of your vision before you even notice.Dr. Horwitz is passionate about preserving her patients’ vision over their entire lifetime. She understands the importance of early detection of eye diseases, along with intervention, may prevent irreversible loss in vision.
With the prevalence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), type 2 diabetes, and glaucoma already affecting 1 in 4 people over the age of 40, Dr. Horwitz understands the importance of regular screenings and on-going monitoring.
Many of these conditions can be well managed if identified early. If we identify patients at the onset of these diseases, we can better treat them. Then we can teach that patient how to better care for their eyesight, and help them preserve their vision.
A regular comprehensive eye exam is not able to detect these subtle changes. The Rabin Cone Test is a new diagnostic tool, helping Dr. Horwitz to detect changes in vision with a simple screening. Research over the last 30 years demonstrates that a change in color vision is often the first to indicate the need for additional care. Detecting abnormalities in color vision is important in continued eye health. Ask Dr. Horwitz if you would benefit by a base-line screening with the Rabin Cone Test today!
A digital fundus camera is used to take an image of the fundus — the back portion of the eye that includes the retina, macula, fovea, optic disc and posterior pole. A digital fundus camera normally consists of a camera with a specialized microscope attached. Either a lamp or flash provides the light necessary for photo taking, and depending on the camera photos at different angles of view — from narrow to wide — can be taken. The resulting image is used by Dr. Horwitz for diagnosis and treatment.
For your safety and ours, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are now seeing a limited number of patients.
If there is a medical emergency, please call Eye & Ear Hospital (412-647-2200) where they are performing triage of vision-related issues, or call your doctor's office.