Macular Unit

The Trust’s Macular Unit has high levels of expertise and experience diagnosing and treating macula related diseases.


The macular unit is part of the Ophthalmology department.

The macular unit treats and reviews patients diagnosed or suspected of having macular diseases, conditions which may lead to loss of central vision due to damage to the macula, a small part of the retina which lines the back of the eye.

Macular degeneration being among the commonest cause of visual impairment due to macular pathology in elderly patients. This award winning department deals both effectively and efficiently with over 1400 patients per month having injection treatment. Outpatient clinics are held with optometrists, nurses and consultants who provide advice to those suspected of having this condition and how to manage day to day living. ECLO (Eye Clinic Liaison Officers) work closely with the macular team.

The patient pathway for treatment is called ‘Treat and Extend’ which means that patients are treated with a loading phase of injections initially and the interval is then extended as required. Cancellation or failing to attend these appointments can result in failure of the treatment which will lead to blindness and patients are encouraged to maintain the pathway.

Macular Unit 0191 565 6256 extension 46288

The Macular Unit is located at Sunderland Eye Infirmary, Queen Alexandra Road, Sunderland.

Divisional General Manager Anna Hargrave

Directorate Manager Tina Morrell

Clinical Director Mr Lawrence Gnanaraj

Matron Denise Johnson

Other pages you might find helpful

Sunderland Royal Hospital

Kayll Road, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear, SR4 7TP

Tel: 0191 565 6256

View on a map | Parking and directions

Sunderland Eye Infirmary

Queen Alexandra Road, Sunderland, Tyne & Wear, SR2 9HP

Tel: 0191 565 6256

View on a map | Parking and direction

#