Diabetic retinopathy is the No. 1 threat to vision for diabetics. UT Southwestern Medical Center’s ophthalmologists specialize in diabetic retinopathy, from performing annual eye exams to medically and surgically treating the most complex cases of this condition. They strive to prevent the progression of diabetic retinopathy, which, if left untreated, can cause severe vision loss or even blindness.

UT Southwestern’s ophthalmic surgeons use the most up-to-date technology to diagnose and treat diabetic retinopathy. They evaluate each patient’s case, from mild to severe. If a patient needs surgery, ophthalmic surgeons at UT Southwestern are experts in laser surgery. Surgeons also perform vitrectomies, a microsurgical procedure sometimes performed when bleeding and scar tissue develops inside the eye from diabetic retinopathy.

UT Southwestern ophthalmologists work closely with endocrinologists, specialists who treat diabetes. Endocrinologists can help people strictly control their blood sugar to avoid diabetic retinopathy. Specialized ophthalmic surgeons work closely with researchers to leverage the most effective medical technologies.

Patients in UT Southwestern’s clinical trials program receive therapies years before they become available to the public. Patients should ask their doctor if they are candidates for some of these groundbreaking therapies:

• Angon and Diode laser
• Anti-VEGF therapy
• Digital fluorescein angiography – a dye injection test done on a scanning laser ophthalmoscopic – one of only three in Texas
• Heidelberg retinal topography
• High speed ICG
• Micro incision vitrectomy
• Optical coherence topography
• Photodynamic therapy
• Ultrasound