New Surgical Treatment For Glaucoma Safer Than Gold Standard Glaucoma Surgery

Online, May 30, 2010 (Newswire.com) - Glaucoma is a serious eye problem that can lead to loss of vision if not treated. Traditional treatments including drops (expensive) or surgery (risky) have been poorly received by most patients with this chronic condition. However, a new treatment called "Canaloplasty" may change that.

Unlike with traditional glaucoma surgery (trabeculectomy), canaloplasty does not require the creation of a hole in the eye to drain excess fluid. Instead, a small flap is made in the white part of the eye (sclera) to insert a tiny tube that will open the eye's natural drainage (Schlemm's canal). Then, a stent is placed to keep the canal open. As a result, fluid is drained and pressure is reduced by up to 36%.

Because canaloplasty opens the eye's natural drainage, it may even reduce the number of eye drops needed for treatment of glaucoma. Just as importantly, it is a "less invasive" surgery than more traditional surgery. The procedure was found to be safe, effective and with minimal risks when compared to other treatments.

Patients who would be considered good candidates for canaloplasty are those with "open angle" glaucoma unresponsive to eye medications or who may be planning cataract surgery (as canaloplasty can be done at the same time as cataract surgery).

Only a consultation with a qualified ophthalmologist can determine if you have glaucoma or would be a good candidate for a surgery such as canaloplasty. Once diagnosed, your doctor will guide you toward a treatment that will best suit your needs.
References:

1. Dietlein T, et al. Dtsch Arztebl 2009;106:597-606.
2. Lewis RA, et al. J Cataract Refract Surg 2007;33:1217-1226.
3. Mosaed S, et al. Trans Am Opthalmol Soc 2009;107:127-133.