What is trabeculectomy surgery?
Trabeculectomy surgery is typically performed on people who have open-angle glaucoma, the most common type of glaucoma. It can also be performed on people who have other types of glaucoma, such as angle-closure glaucoma or secondary glaucoma.
Trabeculectomy surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis, meaning that you can go home the same day. The surgery typically takes about 30-45 minutes to perform.
Before the surgery, you will be given local anesthesia to numb the eye. The surgeon will then make a small incision in the sclera and create a small hole. A piece of tissue called the trabecular meshwork will be removed from the hole. This will allow fluid to drain from the eye and help to lower eye pressure.
After the surgery, you will need to wear an eye patch for a few days. You will also need to take medication to prevent infection and inflammation. You may also experience some discomfort or blurred vision for a few weeks after the surgery.
Most people who have trabeculectomy surgery experience a significant reduction in eye pressure and a halt or slowing of the progression of glaucoma. However, there are some risks associated with the surgery, including the risk of infection, bleeding, and scarring.