What to Know About New Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgeries
Glaucoma is often called the "silent thief of sight"—and for good reason. It usually creeps in without pain or warning until vision starts slipping away. But with today’s medical advancements, glaucoma surgery offers hope.
What Causes Glaucoma?
Glaucoma usually develops when fluid in the eye doesn’t drain properly, leading to increased intraocular pressure (IOP). Over time, this pressure damages the optic nerve—the vital connection between eye and brain. Once the damage begins, it can’t be reversed, which is why early detection and treatment are so important.
Why Surgery Is Sometimes Needed
Eye drops or oral medications are often the first line of defense, but they don’t always work well enough. When pressure remains high or vision continues to decline, surgery may be the next step. The goal is to improve fluid drainage or reduce fluid production, lowering pressure in the eye and preserving vision.
Types of Glaucoma Surgery
Several surgical options are available, depending on the type and severity of glaucoma:
- Trabeculectomy
- This is a common traditional surgery where a small flap is made in the white part of the eye to allow fluid to drain better. It's typically used for more advanced cases.
- Tube Shunt Surgery
- A tiny tube is inserted into the eye to redirect fluid to an external reservoir, helping to regulate eye pressure.
- Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
- MIGS includes newer techniques like the iStent, Hydrus, or Xen Gel Stent. These procedures are less invasive and often done with cataract surgery, offering quicker recovery with fewer risks.
- Laser Surgeries
- Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT): A gentle laser targets the eye’s drainage tissue to improve fluid outflow. Often used in open-angle glaucoma, SLT is increasingly popular because it can be repeated and has fewer side effects.
- Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI): This is used for angle-closure glaucoma, creating a tiny hole in the iris to relieve pressure.
- Cyclophotocoagulation: A laser targets the part of the eye that makes fluid to reduce production.
What to Expect After Surgery
Recovery depends on the type of surgery performed. In general:
- Most people can go home the same day.
- Eye drops will be prescribed to prevent infection and control inflammation.
- Activities like heavy lifting or bending may need to be avoided for a few weeks.
- Follow-up visits are essential to monitor healing and eye pressure.
Does Surgery Restore Vision?
Unfortunately, vision lost to glaucoma cannot be restored. Surgery helps preserve the vision that remains by preventing further damage. That’s why early diagnosis and timely treatment make such a big difference.
Final Thoughts
Glaucoma doesn’t have to mean inevitable blindness. With the right treatment—including surgery when needed—many people go on to live full lives with stable vision. Talk with an eye care professional to explore the options and take control of eye health before more damage occurs.
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