Ocular Oncology Service: Expert Care for Eye Tumors and Eye Cancer in Connecticut
When it comes to something as delicate as your eyes, experience matters. At Retina Consultants, P.C., we are proud to be Connecticut’s center of excellence for ocular oncology. For over 40 years, our team has provided world-class diagnosis and treatment for eye cancers and tumors, combining advanced technology with compassionate care.
Our ocular oncology service is led by Dr. Scott Walter, M.D., M.Sc., a fellowship-trained specialist in both vitreoretinal disease and eye tumors. Dr. Walter is the only ocular oncology–trained physician in the state, and he performs over 400 vitreoretinal surgeries annually. Under his leadership, our practice sees more cases of eye cancer than any other center in Connecticut.
What types of eye cancers do you treat?
Our Hartford retina office utilizes the latest diagnostic and treatment techniques to treat various eye-related tumors. Some tumors are harmless and require careful monitoring, while others can be more aggressive.
At Retina Consultants, P.C., we evaluate and treat:
- Choroidal melanoma: It’s the most common primary cancer inside the eye in adults. It occurs when cancerous (malignant) cells form in the choroid, the pigmented vascular layer between the retina and the sclera.
- Choroidal nevus: It’s also known as an eye freckle. It’s a pigmented spot (often benign) in the back of the eye that requires close observation.
- Retinoblastoma: It’s the most common type of eye cancer in infants and children. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to preserve vision and prevent the cancer from spreading.
- Choroidal hemangioma: It’s a rare, benign (non-cancerous) tumor made of abnormal blood vessels in the eye’s choroid layer. It can occur as localized (circumscribed) or widespread (diffuse) forms.
- Metastatic eye tumors: These are cancers that have spread from other parts of the body. We work closely with our associates at Harford Hospital to conduct a full-body scan to identify different areas of the body that may have been affected.
Tumors of the eye can manifest on the surface or inside the eye. They can also affect one eye or both. Since each case is unique, we tailor every diagnosis and treatment plan to the individual’s needs.
Bringing the latest techniques to oncology care: What can I expect?
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. No resource is more critical than imaging for precise diagnostics in oncology. Our ocular oncology team uses state-of-the-art imaging techniques, including optical coherence tomography (OCT), ultrasound, and fluorescein angiography, to visualize and measure eye tumors.
When a lesion appears suspicious or atypical, we perform a biopsy using advanced microsurgical techniques. All biopsy samples are sent for genetic testing. This crucial step helps determine the risk of the tumor spreading to other parts of the body and guides our long-term treatment strategy.
What oncology treatment options do you offer?
Our approach to ocular oncology is focused on preserving both vision and life whenever possible. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:
- Radiotherapy (plaque or external beam): A highly targeted form of radiation designed to destroy cancer cells while protecting healthy tissue.
- Laser therapy: We can use light energy to treat select small tumors, slowing or stopping their growth.
- Surgical removal: Surgery is necessary in cases where tumors must be excised to prevent their spread.
- Ongoing monitoring: Our retina specialists offer ongoing monitoring for benign or low-risk lesions.
With Dr. Walter’s extensive experience in vitreoretinal and ocular oncology surgery, patients receive care that balances precision, safety, and vision preservation.
Do you need ocular oncology care in the Hartford area?
Hearing the words eye tumor or eye cancer can be frightening. However, at Retina Consultants, P.C., you are not alone. We are here to provide answers, clarity, and hope. As Connecticut’s only ocular oncology service, we offer the highest level of care, from diagnosis to advanced treatments.
To get started, call any of our five offices:
Hartford
Manchester
Cromwell
Farmington
