THUNDER BAY – The region’s hospital has one more tool in providing vision care.
The Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre officially unveiled their new Lumenis Vision One Multi-Colour Laser System, a piece of equipment used to treat a number of vision conditions such as retinal tears, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma.
Dr. Chris Francis, ophthalmologist at the regional hospital, said the laser is particularly useful in treating diabetic retinopathy, which is a particular concern in Northwestern Ontario due to a higher than average occurrence rate of diabetes.
“We’re able to stabilize the retina to prevent the development of new abnormal blood vessels and thereby slowing down the process of diabetic retinopathy,” Francis said.
“It’s essential to get a new laser because there were no longer parts and service available for our old laser. Over 15 years the technology has improved so we’re getting a state-of-the-art laser that keeps us doing the same things they’re doing in Minneapolis, Toronto or Winnipeg.”
The new laser replaces one that had been in use since 1999 and was nearing the end of its line.
The modern piece of equipment allows for more convenience for patients.
“It could cut the amount of treatment time down by 50 per cent,” Francis said. “The delivery of that will be done either over fewer sessions and shorter periods of time.”
The purchase of the laser, which is housed within the Lions Vision Care Centre, was helped by local and regional Lions Clubs who contributed more than $104,000.
Without a laser patients would have to travel to either Toronto or Winnipeg for care. Over the past two years about 1,000 patients have needed the use of a laser.
Angela Sharbot, Lions Vision Care Centre advisory board chair, said it is important to have vital resources such as the new laser in the region.
“It’s an honour to be able to see a piece of equipment come in and help the citizens of Northwestern Ontario,” Sharbot said.
“The travel to Winnipeg is hard on people. When you have sight issues you’re probably having a travel companion and from Thunder Bay to Winnipeg I’m estimating is eight hours one way…If we can get something close to home and having professional people working in our city that’s what we want.”
Since 1998 the Lions have raised more than $400,000 for the local vision care centre.
