At Scheie, innovative treatment is available for patients grappling with Thyroid Eye Disease (TED)—a condition that can be both functionally and aesthetically incapacitating. The TED Clinic, established in 2018 by neuro-ophthalmologist and strabismus specialist Madhura Tamhankar, MD, and orbital specialist César Briceño, MD, represents a groundbreaking initiative in the battle against this complex autoimmune inflammatory condition.
"Thyroid Eye Disease is a complex autoimmune inflammatory condition often linked to an overactive thyroid gland. It can affect absolutely anyone," explains Dr. Briceño, shedding light on the indiscriminate nature of TED—starting with early symptoms such as eye redness, tearing, dry eye, or foreign body sensation, and blurry vision.
Dr. Briceño first emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis to mitigate further progression of the disease, a mission that the clinic ardently supports. Dr. Briceño also places emphasis on the critical role of early diagnosis, explaining, "These early symptoms can be frequently misdiagnosed as dry eyes or ocular allergies. Early diagnosis is critical in mitigating further progression of the disease."
The clinic’s approach is centered around comprehensive consultations that not only address the trajectory of the disease but also offer lifestyle guidance and outline management options.
The element that distinguishes the TED Clinic is its holistic and collaborative care approach—ensuring patients receive comprehensive evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and diligent long-term follow-up. "Our uniquely collaborative approach ensures that our patients receive state-of-the-art care," Dr. Tamhankar states. This strategy exemplifies the clinic's dedication to exceptional patient care, fueled by a commitment to innovation and partnership.
For those patients whose condition has progressed, the TED Clinic offers complex surgical procedures, including orbital decompression, to restore normal facial anatomy. Dr. Tamhankar highlights the transformative impact of these surgeries, noting how eye muscle surgery can restore ocular alignment and significantly improve patients' quality of life: “A small percentage of patients may experience severe disease. In rare instances, patients may lose vision. Here at Scheie, we perform complex surgical procedures to help restore normal facial anatomy." These surgeries, while transformative, are approached with meticulous patient selection to navigate the inherent risks, reinforcing the clinic's dedication to patient well-being.
As the TED Clinic at Scheie continues to advance the field, its foundational mission remains evident: improving patients' lives by ensuring they receive an unparalleled level of care throughout their journey with TED. Through its powerful partnership, the TED Clinic at Scheie exemplifies how interdisciplinary collaboration and patient-centric care can forge life-altering outcomes and spark hope for many.
by Maressa Park