Glaucoma

Open-Angle Glaucoma Signs and Symptoms

Primary open-angle glaucoma is the most prevalent form of glaucoma and often progresses slowly, remaining unnoticed for years while causing vision damage. Common signs include:

• Absence of early symptoms
• Gradual loss of peripheral vision, typically affecting both eyes
• Tunnel vision in the later stages of the condition

Surgical Treatment for Open-Angle Glaucoma

BAERVELDT™ Glaucoma Implants

The Baerveldt implant is a minimally invasive option for patients whose intraocular pressure (IOP) cannot be controlled by traditional therapies. This implant uses a specialized fenestration system to regulate bleb height and volume, enhancing IOP control through a larger surface area. It provides effective, long-term pressure relief, making it ideal for advanced glaucoma cases where conventional treatments have proven X Trusted Source The Baerveldt Glaucoma Drainage Device: Efficacy, Safety, and Place in Therapy Clinical Ophthalmology Go to Source inadequate .

Hydrus® Microstent

This tiny, canal-based microstent is designed for adults with mild to moderate primary open-angle glaucoma and is performed during cataract X Trusted Source Outcomes of a Microstent Procedure Combined With Cataract Extraction in Mild/Moderate versus Severe Open Angle Glaucoma Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science Go to Source surgery . Made from biocompatible nitinol, the Hydrus® Microstent is inserted during a straightforward procedure to help improve the natural outflow of fluid in the eye. Long-term studies show significant reductions in medication reliance and surgical intervention rates for patients undergoing this surgical treatment, offering both safety and efficacy in managing IOP over time.

Filtering Microsurgery: Trabeculectomy

A standard surgical procedure for open-angle glaucoma involves making a tiny drainage channel in the sclera (the white part of the eye) in a procedure called trabeculectomy. The new drainage channel allows fluid to flow out of the eye and helps lower eye pressure, preventing or reducing damage to the optic nerve.

After eye drops are used to numb the eye, a laser is applied to the drainage tissue, starting a biological change in the tissue that results in better fluid drainage. This procedure takes about 5 -10 minutes, there are no patches required, and there are no restrictions in post-laser activities.

Most patients can drive themselves to the procedure and are able to carry on normal activities immediately afterward. This advanced laser treatment does not have the associated damage to other tissues or adverse scarring effects that the first-generation Argon laser did. For this reason, SLT can be repeated multiple times to relieve eye pressure if necessary.

OMNI® Surgical System

The OMNI® procedure provides a comprehensive approach to glaucoma management by restoring the eye’s natural drainage system. The device accesses and dilates the Schlemm’s canal through micro-incisions, enhancing fluid outflow and potentially reducing the need for glaucoma medications. This minimally invasive procedure can be performed with or without cataract surgery, offering flexibility and effective pressure reduction for patients with open-angle glaucoma.

You can learn about glaucoma by visiting the Glaucoma Research Foundation website.

Ex-Press Shunt

Smaller than a grain of rice, this filtration device relieves high eye pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma when drops and other surgical treatments have been unsuccessful. Placed between the inner and outer layers of the eye, the Ex-Press Shunt bypasses the eye’s damaged drainage system, allowing excess fluid to drain and reducing eye pressure.