Mr Tom Eke

I am a cataract specialist and a glaucoma specialist. My other interests include neuro-ophthalmology, vision for driving and anaesthesia for ophthalmology. I also undertake medico-legal (expert witness) work. I have been working at Spire Norwich Hospital since 2002.

As a cataract surgeon, I want my patients to be happy. I am highly experienced in dealing with complex cataract problems, such as coexistent glaucoma, small pupils, anxious patient. I use the modern, small-incision phacoemulsification surgery, with lens implants individually chosen. This will usually correct pre-existing short-sightedness, long-sightedness or astigmatism, and give a good visual outcome. I normally use topical anaesthesia (eye-drops, without the need for an injection), but all types of anaesthesia are available if required. I have developed a special technique for patients who are unable to lie flat for cataract surgery: if necessary, I can perform a cataract operation with the patient sitting upright. This technique is very useful for people who would otherwise be considered 'difficult or impossible cases' for cataract surgery, and most of my patients prefer to be sitting up a little.

I regularly operate on people who have other problems like extreme anxiety, claustrophobia, or movement disorders. Consequently, I frequently do cataract surgery on patients that most ophthalmologists would prefer not to operate on: I do one or two such ‘high risk’ cases each month for colleagues around the country. Taking the time to discuss all queries, both before and after surgery, leads to high patient satisfaction.

My approach to glaucoma is similar. I want the patient to understand their condition fully, and be happy with their treatment. I offer full modern management including pachymetry and OCT imaging. Treatment options may include eye drops, surgery, or various types of laser. In many cases, a two-minute treatment with the SLT laser means that long-term eye drops are not needed. I am a highly experienced glaucoma surgeon: my most commonly performed surgical procedures include trabeculectomy with mitomicin, re-do trabeculectomy (rarely needed), bleb needling, combined cataract/glaucoma surgery, and cyclo-diode laser.

My research interests are mainly around anaesthesia safety, surgical techniques and improving the patient experience. I have been invited to lecture on these subjects at numerous national and international conferences. I’ve also visited Malawi and Sri Lanka to do surgical training for local ophthalmologists.

To book an appointment, I would usually require a referral from your general practitioner (GP) or optometrist (optician). If this is not possible, please contact my secretary on 07716 182 762.