Approximately 1.700 patients per year undergo ophtalmological treatment at the diaconal hospital. Operations of cataracts make up the biggest part, mainly since so many people are afflicted by it. Both highly modern (minimal-incision surgery [?] and ultrasonic shattering of the lens) and well-tested surgical methods are made use of. For many patients, a quick restoration of good eyesight can be successfully achieved; therefore, the mood on the ward is generally very positive.

All forms of glaucoma are also treated, both operatively and by means of laser surgery. Major malpositions of the eyelids and blepharonci (eyelid tumours) are operated, as are injuries of the eye and the orbital region. Another part of the spectrum of our work is the treatment of diseases of the lacrimal ducts on infants as well as adults. Strabotomy (operative correction of squinting) has, we are glad to say, become less frequent over the last few years. Since 1992, we have even been performing keratoplasty.

The most recent developments in ophtalmology concern surgery of the retina and the vitreous (hyaloid) body. So far, such operations are only performed at the major eye hospitals. We are currently working on building up the requirements for being able to perform such operations at our clinic as well.

Moreover, more than 400 patients exhibiting afflictions or diseases of the eyes during their stay at another specialised clinic are examined and treated every year within the framework of consultant service. Care for pre-term infants, who face an aggravated risk of retinopathy (Terry's syndrome), plays an important part here.

Over the last few years, instruments and other equipment at our clinic have been brought up to date: we now have at our disposal an operating microscope fitted for video documentation, a suction-irrigation-ultrasonograph, an apparatus for cryosclerotherapy, and high-quality microsurgical instruments. However, as the respective technologies are developed further at a very fast pace, investment of larger sums will continue to be necessary henceforth. For example, a replacement of the operative system (ultrasonography/vitrectomy) will have to take place soon. The argon laser, which is mainly used to treat diseases of the retina, will have to be replaced by a mobile one which can be used in the ward as well as in the operating room.