Modern Glaucoma Treatments

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness globally. It comprises a group of disorders that cause increased intraocular pressure within the eye leading to irreversible damage to the eye tissue and the optic nerve. For a long time, eye drops have been used to treat glaucoma. However, they don’t work on some people, and they cause side effects which have prompted ophthalmologists to venture into glaucoma removal surgery. There are different types of operations, and the best part is new methods are being created every day to prevent visual loss from glaucoma.

Common Modern Glaucoma Treatment Options

1. Canaloplasty

Canaloplasty is mainly indicated for open-angle glaucoma, and it is one of the safest surgical procedures. Ideally, Glaucoma removal surgery aims to reduce the raised intraocular pressure so it can stop damaging the eye. Canaloplasty involves the use of an ophthalmic device to dilate or widen the Schlemm’s canal so that the aqueous humor can smoothly flow out of the eye leading to reduced pressure.

The main advantage of canaloplasty is that the aqueous fluid is allowed to drain using the natural flow system. Therefore, not many modifications are needed. It is also suitable for young patients with normal lenses because it will not cause cataract progression.

2. Sclerotomy

This surgery is for open-angle glaucoma, and it involves an incision into the sclera of the eye to relieve the intraocular pressure. The significant advantage of this procedure is that it is minimally invasive and it can be done on a patient with cataracts and glaucoma at the same time. The incision on the sclera will allow for the smooth flow of the aqueous humor and relieve the eye pressure.

3. Electrocautery

This noninvasive glaucoma removal surgery involves the use of a heating device known as a trabectome to make a tiny incision in the eyes drainage tubes. Some tissues of the trabecular meshwork are removed which allows the aqueous humor to flow out of the eye reducing the intraocular pressure.

4. Trabeculectomy

This surgery is the most common for removing glaucoma, and it also involves an incision into the sclera of the eye. The incision allows for the removal of some of the trabecular meshwork to open up clogged channels that interfere with the flow of aqueous humor.

Nevertheless, this glaucoma removal surgery can result in complications such as eye trauma, infections, and scarring. It is, therefore, suitable for emergency cases where the patient is at risk of blindness and in patients who still experience eye pressure even after laser surgery and other medications.

Bottom Line

Glaucoma continues to be a threat when it comes to eye health. Thankfully, the various surgeries have helped numerous patients from permanently losing their eyesight. Regular eye checkup is recommended to detect glaucoma at an early stage and consequently prevent severe eye damage.