Two types of surgery, trabeculectomy and tube shunt surgery, are currently the gold standard.

Trabeculectomy

During a trabeculectomy, a “trapdoor” is created in the wall of the eye at the edge of the cornea (the clear front of the eye). Under this trapdoor, a small channel is created in the wall of the eye. The trapdoor is then secured using one or more sutures, allowing fluid to leave the eye in a controlled manner. The fluid then drains into a small bleb, or blister, that forms just under the skin that covers the eye. Typically, the entire surgery is hidden under the upper eyelid. Although trabeculectomy was first developed over 30 years ago, our doctors are trained in the latest techniques allowing for safer and more effective surgery.

 

Tube shunt

During placement of a tube shunt or drainage device, a plastic reservoir is attached to the wall of the eye under the upper eyelid. From this device, a small flexible plastic tube runs forward through the wall of the eye, allowing fluid to drain to the reservoir. The device is then covered by donor tissue to prevent erosion or exposure. Our doctors are trained to implant both Ahmed and Baerveldt drainage devices, which are currently the most widely used and effective devices available.

Glaucoma Links

• www.glaucoma.org
• www.glaucomafoundation.org

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