Glaucoma Surgery

Glaucoma surgery refers to a group of surgical procedures aimed at reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with glaucoma, a condition characterized by damage to the optic nerve due to elevated IOP. The primary goal of glaucoma surgery is to prevent or slow down vision loss by lowering IOP.

Types of Glaucoma Surgery

• Trabeculectomy: A surgical procedure that creates a new drainage channel for fluid to leave the eye, thereby reducing IOP. It involves removing a small piece of tissue from the trabecular meshwork, the eye's natural drainage system.
• Glaucoma Drainage Devices (GDDs): Implantable devices that help drain fluid from the eye, reducing IOP. Examples include the Ahmed glaucoma valve and the Baerveldt glaucoma implant.
• Laser Trabeculoplasty: A laser procedure that helps improve drainage of fluid from the eye by creating new channels in the trabecular meshwork.
• Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): A group of surgical procedures that use small incisions and minimal tissue disruption to reduce IOP. Examples include the iStent and the Xen gel stent.
• Cyclodestructive Procedures: Surgical procedures that aim to reduce fluid production in the eye, such as cyclophotocoagulation.

Indications for Glaucoma Surgery

Glaucoma surgery is typically considered when:

• IOP is not adequately controlled with medication or laser treatment
• There is significant vision loss or risk of vision loss due to elevated IOP
• The patient has a history of poor adherence to medical therapy
• The patient has a condition that makes medical therapy ineffective, such as uveitic glaucoma

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, glaucoma surgery carries risks and potential complications, including:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Scarring or adhesion of the conjunctiva
• Hypotony (low IOP)
• Cataract formation or progression
• Vision loss or blurred vision

Postoperative Care

After glaucoma surgery, patients typically require:

• Frequent follow-up appointments to monitor IOP and check for complications
• Topical medications to control inflammation and prevent infection
• Avoidance of heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activities
• Use of protective eyewear to prevent injury

Outcomes and Prognosis

The success of glaucoma surgery depends on various factors, including the type of procedure, patient selection, and postoperative care. In general:

• Trabeculectomy has a success rate of around 70-90% in reducing IOP
• GDDs have a success rate of around 80-90% in reducing IOP
• MIGS procedures have a success rate of around 50-80% in reducing IOP

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is glaucoma surgery?
Surgery to relieve pressure in the eye.

Why is glaucoma surgery performed?
To prevent vision loss from high eye pressure.

What are the types of glaucoma surgery?
Trabeculectomy, tube shunt, and laser surgery.

Is glaucoma surgery painful?
Typically done under local anesthesia.

How long does glaucoma surgery take?
Usually 30-60 minutes per eye.

What are the risks of glaucoma surgery?
Infection, bleeding, and vision problems.

Can glaucoma surgery cure glaucoma?
No, but it can help manage the condition.

How long is the recovery time after glaucoma surgery?
Several weeks to a few months.

Will I need to take medication after glaucoma surgery?
Possibly, to control eye pressure and prevent infection.

Can I drive after glaucoma surgery?
Not immediately, usually after a few days or weeks.