Glaucoma Incisional Surgery
Dr. Szymarek is a Fellowship Trained Glaucoma Specialist and Surgeon skilled in managing glaucoma both medically and surgically.
Glaucoma surgery refers to various surgical procedures performed to treat glaucoma, a group of eye conditions characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP) that can lead to optic nerve damage and vision loss. The primary goal of glaucoma surgery is to reduce intraocular pressure and preserve the patient’s vision.
The choice of glaucoma surgery depends on various factors, including the type and severity of glaucoma, the patient’s overall health, and the surgeon’s expertise. It is important to note that not all individuals with glaucoma require surgery, and many cases are initially managed with medications or laser treatments. Surgical interventions are typically considered when other treatments are insufficient in controlling intraocular pressure or when there is a significant risk of progression to vision loss.
Here are brief descriptions of some common types of glaucoma surgery:
Tube Shunt Surgery (Glaucoma Drainage Devices)
A small tube or shunt is implanted into the eye to facilitate drainage of aqueous humor, reducing intraocular pressure. The tube is connected to a reservoir (plate) that is placed on the surface of the eye.
Trabeculectomy:
Trabeculectomy involves creating a new drainage channel in the eye to allow excess fluid to drain out, reducing intraocular pressure. A small flap is made in the sclera (the white part of the eye) to create a drainage hole. This creates a filtering bleb which lowers the intraocular pressure in the eye.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS):
MIGS encompasses a range of newer, less invasive surgical techniques that aim to reduce intraocular pressure with minimal trauma to the eye. The procedures are often performed in conjunction with cataract surgery. Examples include trabecular micro-bypass stents, which create a bypass for aqueous humor to flow out of the eye, and goniotomy and Omni which surgically open up the trabecular meshwork.
Cyclophotocoagulation:
Cyclophotocoagulation involves using laser energy to treat the ciliary body, which produces aqueous humor in the eye. By reducing the production of aqueous humor, intraocular pressure can be lowered.