Dr. Vladimir Kratky – Ophthalmologist | Kingston, ON

Dr. Vladimir Kratky is a dedicated Ophthalmologist, committed to providing exceptional medical and surgical eye care to patients of all ages. Practicing primarily at The Ottawa Hospital in Kingston, ON, he is a trusted provider of specialized eye care in the community. His practice adheres to the high standards set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), ensuring every patient receives thorough and compassionate attention. As a comprehensive Ophthalmologist, he offers a full spectrum of services from routine eye examinations and vision correction to the management of complex eye diseases and surgical interventions. The clinic provides a full spectrum of eye care services, from routine vision checks to advanced surgical procedures, in a patient-friendly setting.

He graduated with a Medical Degree from the University of Ottawa in Canada and has been practicing as an Ophthalmologist for over 38 years, since 1986. He is recognized as a RCPSC Specialist by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), reflecting his extensive training and expertise in eye care. His certifications include comprehensive training in medical and surgical ophthalmology, with ongoing commitment to staying current with the latest advancements and guidelines in the field.

Dr. Kratky’s professional philosophy centers on preserving and improving vision through compassionate, state-of-the-art eye care. He is dedicated to educating patients about their eye health and involving them in treatment decisions. Utilizing advanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies, he provides precise and effective treatments. His focus is on the early detection and management of eye diseases to prevent vision loss, and he collaborates closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient well-being. All communication and care are provided in English, with a dedication to maintaining the highest standards of patient care in Kingston.

Dr. Vladimir Kratky provides expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of eye conditions, including:

Refractive Errors and Vision Correction

Dr. Kratky addresses common eye conditions where the eye does not bend (refract) light properly, leading to blurred vision.

• Hyperopia (Farsightedness): A condition where near objects may appear blurry (and sometimes distant objects too) because the eye focuses images behind the retina.
• Presbyopia: Age-related loss of the eye's ability to focus on close objects, typically becoming noticeable in the early to mid-40s.
• Myopia (Nearsightedness): Often develops in childhood and can progress through adolescence.

Cataracts and Lens Disorders

Dr. Kratky addresses a leading cause of reversible vision impairment, especially in older adults.

• Dislocated Intraocular Lens (IOL) or Natural Lens: May require surgical repositioning, exchange, or suturing of the lens.
• Congenital or Pediatric Cataracts: Often associated with other systemic conditions or genetic factors.
• Secondary Cataracts (Posterior Capsular Opacification): Commonly referred to as an 'after-cataract'.

Glaucoma Management

Dr. Kratky addresses medical, laser, and surgical treatments aimed at lowering eye pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage.

• Secondary Glaucoma (e.g., due to trauma, inflammation, steroids): Treatment involves managing the underlying cause and lowering eye pressure.
• Congenital or Childhood Glaucoma: Symptoms can include excessive tearing, light sensitivity, and an enlarged cloudy cornea.
• Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Acute or Chronic): Acute angle-closure is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.

This list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive evaluation of your eye health, a consultation with Dr. Vladimir Kratky is necessary.

• Vision Testing and Prescription for Eyeglasses & Contact Lenses: Guidance on lens options and proper eye care for lens wearers.
• Laser Treatments for Glaucoma (SLT, LPI, Cyclophotocoagulation): Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI) for angle-closure glaucoma.
• Glaucoma Screening, Diagnosis, and Monitoring: Early detection and ongoing monitoring of glaucoma progression.
• Surgical Procedures for Glaucoma (Trabeculectomy, Glaucoma Drainage Devices/Shunts, MIGS): Reserved for glaucoma not adequately controlled by medications or laser.
• YAG Laser Capsulotomy (for Secondary Cataract): Restores clear vision by creating an opening in the clouded lens capsule.
• Diagnosis and Management of Common Eye Conditions: Prescription of appropriate medications and therapies.

Note: This list provides an overview. Specific treatments are determined after a thorough eye examination and consultation with Dr. Kratky.

All ophthalmology services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and relevant Canadian Ophthalmological Society (COS) and relevant subspecialty guidelines. A referral from a physician or optometrist may be required for consultation.

Dr. Kratky's primary eye clinic is located at The Ottawa Hospital in Kingston, ON, situated in the vibrant Downtown Kingston, Queen's University area, within the Sydenham Ward neighborhood. The clinic offers convenient access to patients from the west end via proximity to Cataraqui Centre, with accessible public transportation options through Kingston Transit. The eye clinic is designed to be accessible and comfortable for all patients, providing a professional, welcoming environment for comprehensive eye care. Patients will find ample parking options usually nearby, making visits convenient and stress-free.

How does Dr. Kratky treat glaucoma?

Dr. Kratky manages glaucoma with the goal of lowering intraocular pressure to prevent further optic nerve damage. Treatment options may include prescription eye drops, laser therapy (like SLT or LPI), or surgical procedures such as trabeculectomy, glaucoma drainage devices, or Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS). The specific approach depends on the type and severity of glaucoma.

What are some common eye conditions treated by Dr. Kratky?

Dr. Kratky treats a wide array of eye conditions. Common ones include refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism), cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, dry eye syndrome, conjunctivitis (pink eye), and eyelid disorders. Depending on any subspecialty training, he may also manage more complex retinal, corneal, or neuro-ophthalmic conditions. providing comprehensive medical and surgical eye care, including the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of eye diseases and vision problems.

Does Dr. Kratky perform cataract surgery?

Most Ophthalmologists, including Dr. Kratky, are highly experienced in performing cataract surgery. This outpatient procedure is very effective in improving vision affected by cataracts. Dr. Kratky would assess the severity of your cataracts and determine if surgery is the best course of action for you.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Kratky?

Yes, a referral from a family doctor or optometrist is generally necessary to see Dr. Kratky for medical or surgical eye conditions covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This helps coordinate your care effectively. If you have an urgent eye problem, contact Dr. Kratky's office or seek emergency eye care as appropriate, as referral requirements may differ in emergencies. Please have your doctor's office or optometrist contact Dr. Kratky's clinic for referral instructions.

Are services from Dr. Kratky covered by provincial health insurance?

Most medical and surgical eye care provided by Dr. Kratky for diagnosed eye conditions is covered under Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This includes treatments for diseases like cataracts and glaucoma. Routine eye check-ups for vision testing (refraction) may not be covered for all age groups unless there's an underlying medical reason. Elective cosmetic procedures are generally not covered by provincial health insurance. Medically necessary eye exams and treatments for eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts are typically covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Routine eye exams for glasses/contacts for adults (usually ages 19-64) may not be covered unless a specific medical condition affecting the eyes is present. Elective procedures such as cosmetic eyelid surgery or refractive laser surgery (LASIK/PRK) are generally not covered. It is recommended to verify coverage specifics with Dr. Kratky's office or Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

When should I see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Kratky?

You should see an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Kratky for comprehensive eye examinations, especially if you have a family history of eye disease, are over 40, or have medical conditions like diabetes that can affect your eyes. Also, seek consultation for any sudden vision changes, eye pain, injury, persistent redness, or if referred by your family doctor or optometrist for a specific eye condition.

What is the difference between an Ophthalmologist like Dr. Kratky and an Optometrist?

An Ophthalmologist like Dr. Kratky is a medical doctor (MD/DO) who has completed medical school followed by residency training in ophthalmology. They are licensed to practice medicine and surgery, diagnose and treat all eye diseases, perform eye surgery, and prescribe medications, eyeglasses, and contact lenses. Optometrists (OD) are healthcare professionals who provide comprehensive eye care, including vision testing, prescribing corrective lenses, and diagnosing and managing certain eye abnormalities and diseases (scope varies by province/territory). They typically do not perform invasive surgery.

The Ottawa Hospital
F195, 166 Brock Street, Sleep Clinic box 237
Kingston, ON K7L 5G2

Office Phone: (613) 544-3400

Dr. Kratky is a licensed Ophthalmologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and Medicine Act, 1991 in ON. A referral from a family physician or optometrist may be required for a consultation with Dr. Kratky, particularly for services covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Verify Dr. Kratky's registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO): https://doctors.cpso.on.ca/DoctorDetails/Kratky-Vladimir/0037458-51434