{"id":504,"title":"What to Know About New Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgeries","slug":"what-to-know-about-new-minimally-invasive-glaucoma-surgeries","lang":"en","description":"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. From traditional procedures to cutting-edge lasers, there are more ways than ever to lower eye pressure and protect remaining vision.","content":"

What Causes Glaucoma?

Glaucoma develops when fluid inside the eye (aqueous humor) fails to drain properly, causing a buildup of intraocular pressure (IOP). Over time, this increased pressure damages the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. Since optic nerve damage is irreversible, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent vision loss.

Why Surgery Is Sometimes Needed

Most people start treatment with eye drops or oral medications to control eye pressure. However, when these fail to keep IOP at a safe level or vision continues to decline, surgery becomes necessary. The primary goal of glaucoma surgery is to improve fluid drainage or reduce fluid production, lowering eye pressure and preserving remaining vision.

Types of Glaucoma Surgery

Trabeculectomy
A traditional surgical procedure that creates a small flap in the white of the eye (sclera) to allow excess fluid to drain out, lowering eye pressure. It’s often used for advanced glaucoma.
Tube Shunt Surgery
Involves placing a tiny silicone tube in the eye to divert fluid to an external reservoir, helping control pressure.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
MIGS includes newer techniques such as iStent, Hydrus, or Xen Gel Stent. These are less invasive, often performed during cataract surgery, and allow faster recovery with fewer complications.
Laser Surgeries
- Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT): Targets drainage tissue to improve fluid outflow. Common for open-angle glaucoma, it’s repeatable and low-risk.
- Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI): Creates a small hole in the iris to relieve pressure in angle-closure glaucoma.
- Cyclophotocoagulation: Uses a laser to reduce fluid production by targeting the part of the eye that makes aqueous humor.

What to Expect After Surgery

Recovery varies by procedure, but generally:

Most patients go home the same day.
Prescription eye drops prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for several weeks.
Follow-up visits are vital to check healing and maintain safe eye pressure.

Does Surgery Restore Vision?

No — glaucoma surgery cannot restore lost vision. Its purpose is to preserve remaining sight by preventing further optic nerve damage. That’s why early detection and intervention are key to maintaining long-term eye health.

Final Thoughts

Glaucoma is a serious but manageable condition. With regular eye exams, proper treatment, and timely surgery when needed, most patients can maintain good vision and quality of life. If you’ve been diagnosed with glaucoma, work closely with your ophthalmologist to find the best treatment plan.

Sources

Mayo Clinic – “Glaucoma Surgery”
American Academy of Ophthalmology – “Types of Glaucoma Surgery”
National Eye Institute – “Facts About Glaucoma”

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