Eye Surgery: Glaucoma

General description
Glaucoma is a degenerative disease caused by increased pressure in the eye (ocular tension). The eye has a liquid, similar to water, that regenerates constantly. However, should the drain system fail, intraocular pressure increases and may damage the optic nerve.

Causes – Although it is unknown what causes this disease, on occasion it may affect several family members. If you have a family history of glaucoma, it is advisable to have regular check-ups with your ophthalmologist. In all cases, an examination every two years is recommended since glaucoma detection is very simple.

Diagnostic – It is diagnosed through an intraocular pressure test, a painless procedure that takes only a few minutes. People who suffer from glaucoma show abnormally high intraocular pressure. Nevertheless, not all people with this symptom suffer from glaucoma. Elevated readings are simply considered a risk factor in the pathology. In such cases, two additional tests are required including a perimetry or visual field exam and an ophthalmoscopy or observation of the optic nerve in the fondus.

Benefits - Studies show that laser surgery can be very effective in reducing pressure for particular patients. Nevertheless, results can diminish with time. Your physician may suggest additional treatment.

Technical description
Procedure – There are several treatments depending on the type of glaucoma. Open-angle primary glaucoma generally accounts for 90% of all occurrences and usually appears in people older than age 55, the diabetic or those with myopic vision. It may be controlled with topical medication, laser surgery or valve implantation which facilitates drainage.

Closed-angle glaucoma (chronic or simple) is less frequent and could cause ocular pain, cephaleas, blurred vision, nausea and vomiting. The preferred treatment is laser surgery. However if chronic, it also requires medication.

Hospitalization – Laser surgery requires local anesthesia and does not require hospitalization.

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