Glaucoma Surgery Package: Laser Treatment & Reducing Intraocular Pressure

Glaucoma or Blue water is a disease in which the optic nerve is damaged due to various reasons such as elevated intraocular pressure (the pressure inside the eye). Since the optic nerve is responsible for transmitting visual information to the brain, any damages to it gradually causes vision defects. If glaucoma is not treated and progresses, it can ultimately lead to complete blindness.

At what age does glaucoma develop

Glaucoma can occur at different ages, depending on the patient’s family history and other systemic variables.

Treatment Methods

At first a complete clinical eye examination should be done, which includes:
1.   intraocular pressure measurement
2.   gonioscopy, examination and assessment of the eye’s angle
3.   examination of the optic nerve
4.   visual field test to detect glaucoma
5.   other ophthalmic tests such as imaging of the optic nerve and retina (if needed)

Medication is the first treatment option for glaucoma. If the glaucoma is not treated with medication, surgery will be the only effective treatment. Glaucoma surgical procedures include:
•   non-penetrating glaucoma surgery (deep Sclerectomy and Viscocanalostomy)
•   trabeculotomy
•   goniotomy
•   shunts implantation

Postoperative Care

1.   After being discharged from the hospital, your eye will be dressed and covered by a plastic shield. Avoid taking off the dressing at home.
2.   Plan to rest on the first day after the surgery. After glaucoma surgery, avoid lifting heavy objects (typically heavier than 2kg). If you have to climb up or down the stairs, do it cautiously and make sure to have a companion to help you.
3.   While resting, keep your head more elevated than usual.
4.   Having light foods, hot liquids, vegetables and fruits is good to facilitate recovery.
5.   After surgery, you may experience foreign body sensation. Painkillers are prescribed to reduce the discomfort.

Notes:
- You should have a follow-up visit one day after the surgery.
- Glaucoma surgery will help preserve your vision and prevent further vision loss and blindness. It does not improve your vision.

Preoperative Preparation

The night before surgery, take a bath and wash your face with a diluted baby shampoo or soap.
Observe the nutritional considerations according to the time of surgery given to the patient by the surgical team.
If you are taking any specific medicine, be sure to inform your ophthalmologist and anesthesiologist.

Who Are NOT Good Candidates for Glaucoma Surgery

There is no special limitation for glaucoma surgery. The best treatment option is recommended by the ophthalmologist, depending on the health condition of the patient.

Preoperative Preparation

1.   The night before surgery, take a bath and wash your face with a diluted baby shampoo or soap.
2.   Observe the nutritional considerations according to the time of surgery given to the patient by the surgical team.
3.   If you are taking any specific medicine, be sure to inform your ophthalmologist and anesthesiologist.
Notes:
•   Anti-hypertensive and lipid-lowering medications should be taken based on your previous instructions.
•   Heart medications should be taken based on your previous instructions. In case of taking aspirin and warfarin, taking them should be stopped if possible. However, be sure to consult your ophthalmologist in this regard.
•   Inform your ophthalmologist in case of having diabetes.

4.   Be ready for preoperative examinations including blood tests and cardiovascular consultation.

Surgical Equipment

The surgery is performed using state-of-the-art surgical laser systems including the CPC machine, the newest and most advanced laser equipment used in retinal and glaucoma surgery, on glaucoma patients with elevated intraocular pressure.

Duration of Your Stay in Iran

3-5 Days

Alireza Soleimani, MD.

Noor Specialized Ophthalmology Centers

Packages