Glaucoma Vision Procedures
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty
(SLT)
Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a safe and effective procedure used to treat glaucoma by reducing eye pressure. With the help of a specialized laser, tiny, painless pulses of light are applied to the drainage system of the eye. This encourages better fluid outflow, reducing the pressure within the eye.
SLT is a quick outpatient procedure, usually completed in a matter of minutes, and does not require any incisions or stitches. It can be repeated if necessary and often helps to reduce the need for glaucoma eye drops.
Laser Peripheral Iridotomy
(LPI)
Laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) is a procedure commonly used to treat or prevent a specific type of glaucoma called narrow-angle glaucoma. This non-invasive procedure involves creating a small hole in the iris (the colored part of the eye) using a laser. This hole allows the fluid in the eye to flow more freely, relieving the pressure buildup.
LPI is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, and it typically takes just a few minutes to complete. The procedure is generally painless, and the recovery time is minimal.
Trabeculectomy
Trabeculectomy is a surgical procedure performed to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma patients. It involves creating a tiny new drainage channel to allow excess fluid to escape from the eye. During the procedure, a small flap is made in the white part of the eye, and a small reservoir, called a bleb, is formed to help regulate the flow of fluid.
Trabeculectomy is typically performed under local anesthesia, and it may require a short hospital stay. It is an effective option for patients with more advanced glaucoma or when other treatments have not been successful in controlling the IOP.
Tube Shunt
Tube shunt surgery is a procedure used to treat glaucoma when other methods have not been successful in lowering the intraocular pressure (IOP). In this surgery, a small tube is inserted into the eye to redirect the fluid and create a new drainage pathway. The tube is connected to a small plate that is placed on the outside of the eye. This allows excess fluid to flow out of the eye, reducing the pressure.
Tube shunt surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, and patients may require follow-up visits to monitor the IOP and ensure proper functioning of the tube.
Gonioscopy Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy
(GATT)
Gonioscopy Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy (GATT) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat glaucoma by improving the outflow of fluid from the eye. It involves creating a tiny incision in the eye's drainage system using specialized microsurgical tools. This procedure helps to bypass any blockages and facilitate better fluid flow, reducing intraocular pressure.
GATT is typically performed under local anesthesia, and it offers the potential benefits of reducing dependence on glaucoma medications and potentially avoiding more invasive surgical procedures.
iStent
iStent is a tiny implant inserted during cataract surgery to help manage glaucoma. It is the smallest medical device ever approved by the FDA and is designed to improve the outflow of fluid from the eye. The iStent creates a bypass within the eye's natural drainage system, allowing fluid to flow more freely and reducing intraocular pressure. This can potentially reduce the need for glaucoma medications.
iStent implantation is typically performed during cataract surgery, adding minimal extra time to the procedure.
Presserflo
Presserflo is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat glaucoma by improving the drainage of fluid from the eye. It involves creating a small opening in the eye's natural drainage system using a specialized tool. This opening provides an alternative pathway for the fluid to drain, reducing intraocular pressure.
Presserflo surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia and offers the advantage of being a less invasive option compared to traditional glaucoma surgeries. It aims to effectively control intraocular pressure and may reduce the reliance on glaucoma medications.​
Xen Implant
Xen Implant is an advanced surgical option for the treatment of glaucoma. It involves the placement of a tiny tube or stent in the eye to create a new drainage pathway for excess fluid. The Xen Implant allows for better fluid outflow, reducing intraocular pressure and preserving vision. This microsurgical procedure is often performed in combination with cataract surgery and can help patients achieve better management of their glaucoma while potentially reducing the need for multiple eye drops.
The Xen Implant procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and offers the advantage of a faster recovery time compared to more invasive glaucoma surgeries.