Ophthalmology Tests, Services and Procedures

Kid-friendly testing

It’s often challenging for children to sit still for a test, especially for a sensitive area like the eye. But our pediatric eye doctors are trained to work with kids and have many techniques to help children feel comfortable so we can get the most accurate test results. We even make extra efforts to help them enjoy their time with us so they look forward to coming back next time.

Eye tests and services

We offer many eye and vision tests for children, from basic eye exams to more complex and specific diagnostic testing.

Imaging tests

Ophthalmic imaging can include topography, ultrasonography, optical coherence tomography and fundus photography. These imaging tests are designed to take detailed pictures of the eye to see an up-close look at the eye structure for advanced diagnoses. Fortunately, these tests are all non-invasive, meaning they can be gathered without any discomfort to your child. We also perform visual field testing, which provides information about your child’s peripheral vision, in a way that’s fun and non-threatening for children.

For patients with uveitis and retinal conditions, Children’s Colorado is unique in that we offer kid-friendly fluorescein angiography — an advanced form of imaging that involves taking photos of the back of the eye after administering a safe fluorescent dye. While many eye care providers only perform this test by giving the dye through an IV, we make this test much easier for kids by having them drink the dye mixed with juice or water.

Glasses and contacts

Our pediatric optometrists and ophthalmologists are specially trained in diagnosing refractive error (nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism) in babies and young children. We can provide glasses prescriptions for kids of any age.

Our complex pediatric contact lens services are run by fellowship-trained pediatric optometrists specializing in fitting for aphakia (infants who have had cataract surgery), keratoconus, corneal irregularities due to trauma and other disorders.

Eye surgeries and procedures

Cataract surgery

Pediatric cataract surgery is the only way to remove a cataract (the cloudy lens inside the eye). Cataract surgery for children is very different when compared to cataract surgery for adults. If your child needs cataract surgery, you’ll want surgeons specially trained in cataract surgery for children, like ours. While cataracts in children are rare, our surgeons have extensive experience and perform more pediatric cataract surgery than any other center in Rocky Mountain region.

Corneal cross-linking

Corneal cross-linking is a procedure we perform to halt the progression of keratoconus, a condition in which the cornea becomes increasingly distorted. This condition can advance more quickly in children than adults. While the procedure doesn’t reverse keratoconus, it slows or stops its progression to reduce the chance your child will need a more invasive procedure, such as a corneal transplant.

Strabismus surgery

We preform strabismus surgery for both children and adults. Strabismus is a condition in which one or both eyes are misaligned, or not straight. Strabismus surgery can help straighten the eyes to improve things like the appearance of the eyes, double vision and depth perception.

Uveitis surgery

Uveitis is a chronic eye condition that can lead to decreased vision. Many pediatric patients with uveitis will need surgery at some point in their treatment, whether it is to decrease inflammation, remove a cataract or treat glaucoma. Our team has extensive experience performing pediatric uveitis surgery,and based on their unique condition, your child’s doctor may recommend uveitis surgery in addition to other treatments such as medication or injections to reduce inflammation.

Nasolacrimal surgery

Nasolacrimal duct obstruction is a common problem in many babies and causes excessive tearing starting at birth. Our pediatric ophthalmologists are experienced in treating this condition with a variety of surgical procedures, including nasolacrimal duct probing, stenting and balloon dilation.

Where to find eye testing services

We perform most of our testing at our hospital on the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora with additional diagnostic testing at our North Campus in Broomfield and South Campus in Highlands Ranch. For questions about specific tests and locations, please call us at 720-777-2020.