The Different Types of Glaucoma Surgery
At Avery Eye Clinic in The Woodlands, Huntsville, and Conroe, TX, our team of board-certified ophthalmologists are experienced in performing a variety of glaucoma surgeries. Glaucoma is a complex eye disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. The goal of glaucoma surgery is to improve the drainage of fluid in the eye and prevent further damage to the optic nerve.
There are several different types of glaucoma surgery, and the best option for you will depend on the severity of your condition and your overall health. In this blog post, we'll discuss the three most common types of glaucoma surgery: trabeculectomy, laser surgery, and drain implant surgery.
Trabeculectomy
A trabeculectomy is a traditional surgical procedure that involves creating a new drainage channel for fluid to leave the eye. A small incision is made in the white part of the eye (the sclera), and a safe passage is created from the front chamber of the eye to an area just under the surface of the conjunctiva (the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye).
This new drainage channel allows fluid to leave the eye without going through the trabecular meshwork (the small opening in the eye through which fluid must pass before leaving).
Laser Surgery
There are two types of laser surgery that can be used to treat glaucoma: argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT) and selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT). Argon laser trabeculoplasty uses short pulses of concentrated light to make tiny burns around the perimeter of the trabecular meshwork. This helps improve the outflow of fluid from the eye and reduces intraocular pressure. Selective laser trabeculoplasty works in a similar way but uses lower energy levels to minimize tissue damage.
Laser surgery is less invasive than traditional glaucoma surgery and typically has a shorter recovery time.
Drain Implant Surgery (Tube Shunt)
Drain implant surgery is also known as tube shunt surgery or tube shunt procedures. This type of glaucoma surgery involves placing a small tube within the eye to help drain fluid and relieve intraocular pressure. The tube is placed in a specific location between the front chamber of your eye and an area under your conjunctiva called Tenon's space. Once in place, one end of the tube stays open so that fluid can drain out while the other end lies flat against your eyeball.
Why You Should See an Eye Doctor in Conroe, TX
If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, it's important to see an experienced eye doctor in Conroe, TX, for regular checkups. At Avery Eye Clinic, our board-certified ophthalmologists are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma. We offer a full range of surgical and non-surgical treatment options and will work with you to create a treatment plan that's right for you.
Visit an Optometrist Today for Eye Problems
If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, our team at Avery Eye Clinic can help determine which type of glaucoma surgery is right for you. Trabeculectomy, laser surgery, and drain implant surgery are all common types of procedures used to correct this condition; however, each has its own set of benefits and risks involved. To learn more about your options or to schedule an appointment with an optometrist at our The Woodlands, Huntsville, and Conroe, TX, locations today, contact us online or give us a call.