Glaucoma

Glaucoma, one of the leading causes of blindness, is a disease of the optic nerve caused by increased pressure within the eye. The optic nerve carries the images we see to the brain. If glaucoma is untreated, abnormally high eye pressure can damage the optic nerve leading to permanent loss of vision. However, it is often preventable if treated early enough. We provide complete diagnostic, medical and surgical care for glaucoma patients.

Procedures and tests used in diagnosing Glaucoma include:

Tonometry – measures fluid pressure within the eye.
Gonioscopy – examines the drainage angle of the eye.
Ophthalmoscopy – evaluates optic nerve damage.
Computer-assisted visual field testing – tests the visual field of the eye to detect vision loss.
Retinal angiography – verifies the condition of the optic nerve.
Fundus Photography – photographs of the inside of the eye, focusing on the area of the optic nerve.

Medical and surgical care includes:

Medical pharmacology – administration of specific medicine to slow fluid production to relieve pressure.
Laser iridotomy – tiny hole made in the iris to relieve pressure.
Trabeculectomy surgery – surgical opening within the eye to relieve pressure.
Implant surgery of tubes, valves and shunts – inserted into openings in the eye to relieve pressure.
SLT Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty –  Used to lower intraocular pressure when eye drop medications are not lowering the eye pressure enough or are causing significant side effects. It may be used as initial treatment of glaucoma.

Educational Resource

National Eye Institute of the National Institute of Health. A government service to advise information about eyes and eye health subjects. Click Here