Goniotomy

A Goniotomy is a Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) which can lower intraocular pressure by improving the outflow dynamics of the eye. It was originally used to treat Glaucoma in children, but has been adapted to treat mild to severe Glaucoma in adults.

A Goniotomy opens the eye’s natural fluid drainage pathway by removing part of the trabecular meshwork. By opening the eye’s natural fluid drainage pathway, the intraocular eye pressure should decrease. There is no need for a stenting device with this procedure. A Goniotomy can be performed with or without Cataract Surgery. The post-operative care and follow-up is similar to Cataract Surgery.

The most common instrument to perform a Goniotomy is a KDB Glide. Below is a diagram demonstrating the removal of the trabecular meshwork.

Treating Your Glaucoma

The iStent® is yet another way to treat mild to moderated glaucoma. The FDA requires this procedure to be performed in conjunction with cataract surgery.  If you have already had cataract surgery you are not a candidate for this procedure.

If you have glaucoma, over time your eye’s natural drainage system becomes clogged. iStent® creates a permanent opening through the blockage to improve the eye’s natural fluid outflow. By improving the outflow of fluid in your eye, iStent® is designed to lower and control the pressure within your eye.

The iStent® Trabecular Micro-Bypass Stent is 20,000 times smaller than the intraocular lens (IOL) your doctor will use to replace your cataracts. By increasing your eye’s ability to drain fluid, this technology is designed to improve the aqueous outflow to safely lower your eye pressure.

If you are a candidate for the iStent® then your surgeon can implant it during your cataract surgery procedure. Once implanted, the iStent® will begin working to safely and effectively manage your eye pressure.