Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery
Primary open-angle glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. Traditionally, the condition has been treated through open eye surgery. In recent years, technological advancements have paved the way for minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS).
MIGS are innovative techniques that combine enhanced surgical procedures and the newest technology to manage glaucoma and normalize intraocular pressure.
At Katzen Eye Group, we take advantage of evolving eye treatment procedures in our quest to provide quality vision care to our patients.
What are the Causes and Symptoms of Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions characterized by the deterioration of the optic nerve. This deterioration is triggered by an increase in pressure in the front part of the eye.
A decrease in ocular fluid outflow causes the build-up of intraocular pressure or IOP. Outflow resistance can stem from age or genetics.
What are the Different Types of Glaucoma and How Are They Treated?
Open-angle and angle-closure glaucoma are the two most common types of glaucoma. Treatments offered include laser surgery, eye drops, and minimally invasive surgery.
These treatments work by increasing the rate of outflow of fluid in the eye or reducing the production of fluid in the eye. Both methods lead to decreased IOP.
What are Common Minimally Invasive Procedures Used to Treat Glaucoma?
iStent and Kahook Dual Blade (KDB) are two devices used to manage and stop the progression of glaucoma in patients. Both are microscopic devices used to penetrate the exterior scleral layer of the eye and access the trabecular meshwork.
The trabecular meshwork is an area of tissue in the eye responsible for the drainage of the aqueous humor through and out of the eye. Blockage in this tissue is usually what affects normal outflow.
How is the iStent Procedure Performed?
An iStent is a microscopic implant inserted into the eye during cataract surgery. The implant has two surgical stents used to make an opening in the sclera, which is the outermost part of the eye.
This opening creates a connection between the sclera and Schlemm’s canal, going through the trabecular meshwork. Schlemm’s canal is the vessel that allows the movement of fluid from the eye’s anterior chamber, into the blood vessels on the episcleral layer.
The iStent creates two permanent bypasses through the trabecular meshwork. This helps improve the eye’s natural outflow, safely lowering the intraocular pressure. The iStent remains in the eye after surgery.
How is the Kahook Dual Blade Used to Treat Glaucoma?
The Kahook Dual Blade, or KDB, is used to remove the trabecular meshwork and provide access to collector channels. The Kahook Dual Blade is designed to cause minimal to no damage to surrounding ocular tissues during the procedure.
The Kahook Dual Blade has a sharp, tapered tip that facilitates smooth entry into the trabecular meshwork and the canal of Schlemm.
The dual blades make parallel incisions on two sides of the meshwork and then cut the meshwork out. By removing the trabecular meshwork, a direct pathway for intraocular fluid is created between Schlemm’s canal and the aqueous veins.
The Kahook Dual Blade is a one-time use device that’s disposed of after surgery. With this procedure, there’s no foreign device left in the patient’s eye.
Are You an Ideal Candidate for MIGS?
iStent and Kahook Dual Blade MIGS procedures are ideal for patients who need to lower their intraocular pressure. They also may be better for those who have developed negative side effects on glaucoma medications or drops.
Glaucoma does not manifest until vision loss has already occurred. Impaired peripheral vision is usually the first notable symptom of the condition.
That’s why at Katzen Eye Group, we encourage our clients to schedule frequent eye exams. Eye exams are the easiest way to detect abnormalities in their earliest stages. We have a team of eye doctors and specialists with extensive experience in treating glaucoma.
Katzen Eye Group uses the latest and most advanced eye care technology, which allows us to treat our glaucoma patients efficiently and effectively.
