Eye diseases of adults and children

Scientific impact of our research is in recognition of pathophysiological processes in diagnosis and management of most important eye diseases. All proposed segments of this programyielded new scientific findings with clinical impact. This relates to introduction of new diagnostic and therapeutic modalities that have become available only in the new clinic. Large importance of this new product is in early dyagnosis of retinal dystrophies and degenerations, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and pediatric neuroophthalmic diseases, to prevent visual loss. The importance of electrophysiological testing in children is emphasised as these give objective information about visual function. Research in genetics of these diseases give important insight in mechanisms and prognosis. Research of effects of laser irradiation on the ocular and periocular tissues are important for development of medical lasers from the concept phase to the phase of pre-clinical and clinical testing. The results of these studies have direct applicability and are useful for better diagnosis and management of ocular diseases.

With this research, the modern methods that were once available only in most modern European institutions have been introduced to Slovene medicine. At the new University Eye Hospital, that was opened in 2001, we have succeeded to establish the possibilities of scientific development that allows most advanced diagnostics and treatment. The results of these novel methods have been published in Slovenian and foreign literature and congresses. Slovene patients can thus have access to the most contemporary management. In addition, genetic testing has provided the characteristics of these diseases in Slovenian population which give insight in mechanisms, course and prognosis. These findings are fundamental in attempts for revealing scientific avenues to treat or retard the progression of eye diseases.