Millions of Americans are affected by Glaucoma every year however, a diagnosis of glaucoma does not have to be the end of the world. If caught early, eye doctors have many options for slowing the progress of the disease. One of the procedures offered by Alpine Eye Care for Glaucoma is called filtration surgery or Trabeculectomy. If medications have not been able to help reduce the pressure in the eye, your ophthalmologist may suggest filtration surgery or Trabeculectomy.
Is Filtration Surgery or Trabeculectomy the procedure that is right for me?
If your glaucoma is worsening despite other treatments and you are an adult, a Trabeculectomy may help lessen the damage and prevent further damage from occurring to your eyes.
How the procedure works
The procedure will be performed by a qualified ophthalmologist and will allow him or her to create a new drainage channel for your eye. Your eye will be numbed and an eyelid holder will keep your eye from blinking. Your doctor will create a tiny new channel between the inside of your eye and the outside of your eye by removing a section of tissue. This channel will allow fluid to bypass the blocked drainage network onto the sclera of your eye. The incision will be closed and then covered with conjunctiva. As the fluid flows, the tissue over the opening of the channel will rise and form a little bubble which is called a bleb. The bleb is located where the sclera joins the iris and will be difficult tot see. If all is working correctly, the fluid should flow freely. Your doctor will check to be sure the procedure worked well.
What are the benefits?
The benefit of having the procedure include preserving your remaining vision or slowing the damage and enhancing the quality of your life.
What are the risks?
Risks may vary and while some patients will have no problems, others may. Some of the possible risks which may occur right away or even much later on include:
- Further surgeries needed
- Infections
- Bleeding or swelling
- Irritation or discomfort
- Pressure that is too low
- Decreased vision
Note: It is important for you to understand that while surgery’s such as a Trabeculectomy may help you slow down or reduce further damage to your eyes, it will NOT bring back vision you have already lost. This is why it is important to see your eye care specialist regularly and if you notice any changes to your vision.
Make informed decisions when dealing with your vision. Your eyes are a gift, take care of them. Review news and information about eye procedures offered by Alpine Eye Care, a Northern Michigan Eye Doctor. If you are looking for an eye doctor or surgeon and live in or near Grayling, Gaylord or Cheboygan, contact Alpine Eye Care today at 1-877-SEE-2020 and set up your appointment today.