Glaucoma Surgery
The basic goal of a glaucoma surgery procedure is to either decrease the production of intraocular fluid or increase the outflow, which, in essence, stabilizes the intraocular pressure. If the goal is accomplished, then damage to the eye can be prevented.
Depending on the type you have, different glaucoma treatment options may be considered. Non-surgical options include the use of eye medications (glaucoma eye drops) or oral medications.
Glaucoma surgery may be required for some people in order to reduce their intraocular pressure. When advanced glaucoma exists, an artificial drainage area is created. Another option is a shunt, a device that a surgeon implants in your eye to improve fluid drainage.
The most common surgical glaucoma procedures include:
- Laser trabeculoplasty - increases outflow of internal eye fluid
- Trabeculectomy - involves partial removal of the eye's drainage system
- Trabeculotomy - same as a trabeculectomy, except incisions are made without removal of tissue
- Goniotomy - used for infants and small children
- Iridotomy - a laser is used to create a hole in the iris to enhance the drainage passages
- Iridectomy - involves surgically removing a small piece of the iris that will allow a better flow of fluid in eyes
Need More Glaucoma Info?
For in-depth information on glaucoma, please visit the Consumer Guide to Glaucoma.