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Last Updated on January 25, 2024 by Shabnam Sengupta
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve and can lead to irreversible vision loss if left untreated. In cases where medications and other treatments fail to manage the condition effectively, glaucoma surgery becomes a viable option. This article aims to shed light on the glaucoma surgery procedure, its safety, duration, and whether patients remain awake during the operation.
What are the different types of glaucoma surgery?
Among different types of glaucoma tests, medical experts consider surgery as the most precise and definitive in directly addressing and managing intraocular pressure and optic nerve damage. The available types of glaucoma surgery options are trabeculectomy, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, glaucoma implant surgery, and cyclophotocoagulation.
- Trabeculectomy: This conventional surgery involves creating a tiny drainage hole in the sclera (the white part of the eye) to help fluid drain more effectively, reducing intraocular pressure.
- Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS): These procedures use microscopic devices to enhance the eye’s natural drainage system. MIGS techniques include trabecular micro-bypass stents and minimally invasive tubes.
- Cyclophotocoagulation: This surgery involves using a laser to reduce the production of fluid within the eye.
- Glaucoma implant surgery (Tube Shunt): Doctors may recommend glaucoma implant surgery or a tube shunt if you have neovascular or congenital glaucoma. It may also be an option for people with other types of glaucoma. This procedure can take 1 to 2 hours and involves implanting a tiny tube, or shunt, in the eye. The tube implants lower pressure in the eye by allowing extra fluid to drain. Eye surgeons do this procedure on an outpatient basis typically with a local anaesthetic. They typically administer light sedation, but occasionally the need for general anaesthesia may arise.
Are these surgeries dangerous and complicated?
Glaucoma surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries some level of risk. Complications are possible, including infection, bleeding, or vision changes. However, advancements in surgical techniques and technology have significantly reduced the risks associated with these procedures. This reduces the likelihood of delays as a quick glaucoma treatment is necessary with minimal complications.
This reduces the chance of any delay in the glaucoma treatment as quick treatment is necessary. Most patients experience successful outcomes with minimal complications.
Surgeons thoroughly assess each patient’s condition and consider various factors before recommending surgery. The overall risk is relatively low, especially when weighed against the potential benefits of preserving vision and preventing further damage caused by uncontrolled glaucoma.
How long does the surgery take and does the patient stay awake?
The duration of glaucoma surgery varies depending on the specific procedure and individual patient factors. Generally, these surgeries take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours. Trabeculectomy typically takes around 45 minutes to complete. Glaucoma implant surgery can take one to two hours.
Whether a patient stays awake during the surgery depends on the procedure and the decision of the doctor and the patient. The doctors commonly use local anaesthesia, numbing the eye and its surrounding tissues. Some patients might receive mild sedation to help them relax during the procedure, while others might opt for general anaesthesia to remain asleep throughout the surgery.
What is recovery and post-operative care for glaucoma?
After glaucoma surgery, patients may experience mild discomfort, redness, or blurred vision, which typically improves over time. Eye drops and medications are often prescribed to aid healing and prevent infection. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities and to protect the eye from any trauma during the initial recovery period.
Regular follow-up appointments with the ophthalmologist are crucial to monitor the eye’s healing process and ensure that the surgery effectively controls the intraocular pressure.
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