Glaucoma is a condition that can lead to blindness if left untreated. It is caused by increased pressure in the eye, which damages the optic nerve over time.

Traditional treatments for glaucoma involve reducing the pressure in the eye through medications, surgery, or laser therapy. However, these treatments can only slow down the progression of the disease, not stop it entirely. But a new technique is showing promise in halting the progression of glaucoma altogether.

What is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss or blindness. It is the second leading cause of blindness in the world, affecting over 60 million people worldwide.

Most people with glaucoma have no symptoms in the early stages of the disease, which is why it is often called the “silent thief of sight.”.

The Traditional Treatment of Glaucoma

The traditional treatment of glaucoma involves lowering the pressure in the eye through medications, surgery, or laser therapy. These treatments can reduce the pressure in the eye and slow down the progression of the disease.

However, they cannot stop it entirely.

The Revolutionary Technique

A new technique, called trabecular bypass surgery, is showing promise in halting the progression of glaucoma. The surgery involves creating a tiny hole in the eye’s drainage channel, known as the trabecular meshwork.

This allows fluid to drain out of the eye more easily, reducing the pressure in the eye.

The surgery is minimally invasive and can be done on an outpatient basis. Patients typically experience little pain or discomfort during the procedure and can return to their daily activities within a few days.

The Results of the Technique

The results of the trabecular bypass surgery have been promising. In a clinical trial, 75% of patients who underwent the surgery experienced a significant reduction in intraocular pressure, with many achieving pressure levels within the normal range.

This is a significant improvement over traditional treatments, which typically only lower the pressure by 20-30%. Additionally, the surgery has been shown to halt the progression of the disease in many patients.

Who is a Candidate for Trabecular Bypass Surgery?

Trabecular bypass surgery is typically recommended for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma who have not responded well to other treatments.

It may also be recommended for patients who have a high risk of progression, such as those with a family history of glaucoma or those with high intraocular pressure.

Risks of Trabecular Bypass Surgery

As with any surgery, trabecular bypass surgery carries some risks. These include bleeding, infection, inflammation, and damage to the eye’s structures. However, these risks are rare, and the surgery is considered safe and effective.

Conclusion

Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that can lead to blindness if left untreated. Traditional treatments can only slow down the progression of the disease and cannot stop it entirely.

However, a new technique called trabecular bypass surgery is showing promise in halting the progression of glaucoma altogether. The surgery is minimally invasive, safe, and effective, and is recommended for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma who have not responded well to other treatments.

If you think you may be a candidate for trabecular bypass surgery, speak to your eye doctor to learn more.