Glaucoma Surgery

Glaucoma surgery is performed to control elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) that threatens the optic nerve, especially when medications or laser treatments are insufficient. It is essential for managing open-angle, angle-closure, or congenital glaucoma. Common surgical types include trabeculectomy (creating a drainage flap), glaucoma drainage implants (shunt insertion), and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) techniques like iStent or XEN Gel Stent. These procedures improve fluid outflow to reduce IOP and halt visual field deterioration. Surgery is usually outpatient-based, performed under local or topical anesthesia, and requires close post-operative care. While vision already lost to glaucoma cannot be restored, surgery plays a vital role in preserving existing sight and preventing blindness ([Glaucoma Research Foundation 2024] ).