Traditionally, ophthalmologists first prescribe eye drops to reduce the eye pressure in glaucoma patients and if that doesn't work, they can perform a laser procedure called a trabeculoplasty to the existing internal drainage canal. If eye drops or the laser procedure are not effective in controlling pressure, the patient may need an operation called trabeculectomy. This involves creating a small hole in the sclera (white of an eye) and removes a small area of trabecular meshwork (tissue that is diseased in glaucoma leading to eye pressure build up). Another operation is to place a silicone tube in an eye to drain fluid. Both these operations have long recovery periods and are associated with multiple complications.
Now a new treatment option are available at the University of Kentucky, the only medical facility in the state to offer the procedure. Performed with a device called a Trabectome, the minimally invasive procedure takes about 30 minutes and is designed to decrease pressure within the eye and stabilize vision.
The Trabectome tool is introduced in the eye through a tiny 1.5 millimeter incision at the edge of the cornea. A small strip of trabecular meshwork is then ablated and removed. This gently unblocks the eye and lowers the pressure. The procedure requires very little sedation and patients generally recover within a week.
The benefits of Trabectome over the traditional glaucoma surgery include:
* Low complication rate
* Rapid recovery
* Simpler than traditional surgeries
* Easily combined with cataract surgery
Trabectome is simpler and safer than traditional glaucoma surgeries and provides excellent eye pressure reduction,but not all patients with glaucoma are suitable for Trabectome surgery. For more information about Trabectome or other ophthalmologic procedures, or to schedule an appointment, call (859) 323-5867.
