Glaucoma Micro Surgery
About Glaucoma Micro Surgery
Glaucoma microsurgery refers to a group of surgical procedures designed to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with glaucoma. Elevated IOP can damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss. By lowering the IOP, these surgeries help to reduce or prevent further optic nerve damage.
The Procedure
Here’s a brief overview of some glaucoma microsurgical procedures:
Trabeculectomy: The most common glaucoma surgery. A small piece of the eye’s trabecular meshwork and adjacent structures are removed to allow for aqueous humor (the fluid inside the eye) to drain out of the eye, into a small pocket (bleb) that forms under the conjunctiva. This helps reduce the intraocular pressure.
Glaucoma Drainage Devices (Tube Shunts): These are devices that are implanted in the eye to facilitate the drainage of the aqueous humor. They help divert fluid from the inside of the eye to an external reservoir.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): As the name suggests, these procedures are less invasive than traditional glaucoma surgeries. They use microscopic-sized equipment and tiny incisions. MIGS procedures have become popular due to their safety profiles and shorter recovery times. Examples include the iStent, Trabectome, and XEN Gel Stent.
Cyclophotocoagulation: This procedure targets the ciliary body, the part of the eye producing aqueous humor. By partially destroying the ciliary body using laser or ultrasound waves, aqueous production is reduced, thereby decreasing intraocular pressure.
The goal of these procedures is to either increase the outflow of the aqueous humor from the eye or reduce its production, thereby achieving a reduction in IOP.
It’s important to note that the choice of procedure depends on the type and severity of glaucoma, the patient’s overall health, and other individual factors. Regular check-ups and adherence to post-operative care instructions are essential to ensure the best possible outcome after the surgery.
Aftercare
After the treatment:
- Have someone drive you home
- Wear sunglasses if your eyes feel sensitive to light
- Try to rest your eyes as much as possible
Book an appointment with Dr Katie
Other Procedures
Cataract Surgery
Cataract Surgery
Corneal Surgery
Corneal Surgery
Cross Linking
Where Your Eyes' Health Matters Most
Our team is highly qualified and experienced. Book a one on one appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is surgery painful?
You'll typically be given local anesthesia, so you shouldn't feel pain during the procedure. Some discomfort might be felt post-operatively, which can be managed with medications.
How long does surgery take?
The procedure's duration can vary but generally lasts between 45 minutes to a few hours, depending on the specific surgery type and complexity.
How long does it take to recover?
Recovery varies based on the procedure, but many patients can return to most normal activities within a week or two. Full healing can take a few weeks to months.