Retinal, cataract, and eye trauma surgery are all now possible thanks to the state-of-the-art machine.
A new microscope used for eye surgery at Bendigo Health is expanding the range of treatment options for patients in the community.
The $400,000 state-of-the-art machine is used for cataract surgery and retinal detachment surgery.
Retinal surgery, used for diabetic patients among others, was not previously available to local patients.
The machine, which was funded through community donations, provides high-quality vision for surgeons during procedures and has a monitor to educate microsurgical assistants.
Bendigo Health hopes to use the new machine for microsurgical training course in the future.
It is also helping expand eye services for the region, with Bendigo Health able to attract a second ophthalmologist, who runs an additional outpatient clinic.
Head of Ophthalmology at Bendigo Health, Adjunct Clinical Professor Peter Burt said the machine provides excellent clarity during cataract and glaucoma surgeries.
“Until now, retinal surgery, used for diabetics and retinal detachment surgery, had not been available in Bendigo, but this microscope makes that possible,” he said.
“Eye trauma surgery repair is also suitable for this microscope, meaning patients who would usually go to Melbourne can have the procedure done locally.”
Eaglehawk resident Lorraine Foti had cataract surgery earlier this month.
“When I went to watch the television (after surgery) it was absolutely amazing, the colours, it makes you wonder what you were watching previously,” she said.
Ms Foti said the surgery had not only improved her eyesight, but her posture and breathing.
“I was forever looking down so I didn’t trip,” she said.
“Now when I walk I’m up straight…it’s been a wonderful thing for the eye but it's it’s adjusted the rest of my life.
“It’s like you’ve been looking into a misty day and then all of a sudden it’s bright and clear.”