Glaucoma is a group of conditions through which pressure builds up in the eye. Our eyes could be compared to a sink, including the necessary component of drainage. In the eye is a continual flow of fluid called the aqueous humor. This fluid nourishes the lens and the cornea as is flows in the background before (ideally) flowing out through the trabecular meshwork, which serves as the eyes’ drain. In people with glaucoma, this meshwork has become clogged and the fluid that flows into the eye cannot adequately drain. The result is pressure that threatens the health of the optic nerve. Fortunately, there are several ways that glaucoma can be treated. In his office near Mission Viejo, Dr. George Salib discusses glaucoma treatments such as oral medication, eye drops, and laser therapies before recommending traditional eye surgery. Every person is different and will reap the greatest benefit from personalized treatment. Conventional surgical treatments for glaucoma include: Trabeculectomy is a surgical procedure that may be used to treat both open- and closed-angle glaucoma. In the precision surgery, a passage to drain fluid is made in the white part of the eye, called the sclera. To reduce the chances of improper healing, which would involve the formation of scar tissue over the surgically-created drain, an anti-fibrotic agent such as Mitomycin-C may be placed into the eye during the procedure. The goal of this procedure is to create a drain that will remain open, reducing intra-ocular pressure. In many cases, patients treated with this conventional surgery are able to enjoy eye health without the assistance of medication. This procedure, rather than creating an opening for drainage, involves the insertion of a very small device. Several designs made of silicone exist, all of which are tube-shaped. The drainage device is connected to a plate, which is stabilized to the eye’s surface via small sutures. Aqueous humor collects onto the plate and can then be absorbed into surrounding tissues. This procedure may be most appropriate for glaucoma patients who have experienced scarring from previous treatment. Dr. Salib and the team at Orange County Eye Institute have many years of experience in the correction of vision problems as well as the successful treatment for eye diseases like glaucoma. When you see well, you can live well. Contact our office at (949) 441-5444 to schedule your consultation and exam. Trabeculectomy
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