020 3993 1279Filtration Surgery
Filtration Surgery for Glaucoma: Exploring Trabeculectomy, MicroShunt, and Tube Implants
Filtration surgery is a crucial treatment option for managing glaucoma when other methods prove insufficient. This article explores three primary types of filtration surgery: trabeculectomy, PRESERFLO™ MicroShunt, and tube implants.
Book a ConsultationWhat is FILTRATION SURGERY?
Filtration surgery is a surgical procedure designed to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with glaucoma.
It is typically recommended when other treatments, such as eye drops or laser therapy, have proven insufficient in managing the condition.
The primary goal of filtration surgery is to reduce IOP by improving the outflow of aqueous humour. Creating an alternative drainage pathway helps relieve pressure on the optic nerve, potentially slowing or halting the progression of glaucoma.
Types of filtration surgery
Discover the different types of filtration surgery offered at OCL Vision
Trabeculectomy
Trabeculectomy is a traditional and widely used surgical technique for glaucoma management. During a trabeculectomy, the surgeon creates a small flap in the sclera (white part of the eye) and removes a portion of the trabecular meshwork. This allows aqueous humour to drain from the anterior chamber into a bleb, reducing IOP.
PRESERFLO™ MicroShunt
The PRESERFLO™ MicroShunt is a minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) device designed for patients with primary open-angle glaucoma. The MicroShunt is a small, flexible tube made of a biocompatible material. It creates a drainage pathway for aqueous humour from the anterior chamber to a subconjunctival bleb.
Tube Implants (Glaucoma Drainage Devices)
Tube implants, also known as glaucoma drainage devices, are used to manage complex or refractory glaucoma cases. There are different types of implants, such as the Baerveldt Glaucoma Implant or the Paul Glaucoma Implant. A small silicone tube is inserted into the anterior chamber, connected to a plate positioned under the conjunctiva. This allows aqueous humour to drain, reducing IOP.
benefits of filtration surgery?
Experience these benefits and more with filtration surgery for glaucoma at OCL Vision
If you’re interested in understanding more about glaucoma, open-angle glaucoma and closed-angle glaucoma, please read our knowledge base.
- Effective IOP Reduction: Filtration surgery can significantly lower intraocular pressure, often more dramatically than medications or laser treatments.
- Long-term Pressure Control: Many patients experience sustained IOP reduction following the procedure, providing long-term management of their glaucoma.
- Reduced Medication Dependence: A significant number of patients can reduce or eliminate their need for glaucoma medications after surgery, improving quality of life and reducing side effects.
- Vision Preservation: By lowering IOP, filtration surgery helps prevent further damage to the optic nerve and preserves remaining vision.
- High Success Rate: Long-term studies show that trabeculectomy, a common type of filtration surgery, has a high success rate. It's estimated that 90% of surgeries are successful, with two-thirds of individuals no longer needing medication to control the condition afterwards.
COST
How much is Filtration Surgery?
- Initial consultation starting from £260
- Follow-up appointments
- Personalised treatment plan
From
£3,000
Indicative Finance From
£56 p/m
Emma Laser Eye surgeryThe way I was dealt by Dr Laginaf was nothing short of outstanding. She went above and beyond and I would like to thank Dr Laginaf for the attention to detail.
Suhail VitrectomyGreat experience with Dr Chien Wong and his team. I needed to have three separate operations to repair a detached retina and poor NHS interventions. Amazing care and treatment and 2 years later still very grateful for their efforts.
Gordon Cataract SurgerySo much care, from the initial enquiry to the final check-up, every team member treats you as if you are the most important person they have ever dealt with. I completed my treatment feeling valued and with better than 20/20 vision.
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Filtration Surgery FAQ's
View knowledge baseHow long does recovery take after filtration surgery?
Recovery times vary depending on the procedure. Trabeculectomy typically requires 4-6 weeks, while MIGS procedures like the PRESERFLO™ MicroShunt may have shorter recovery periods of 2-3 weeks.
Will I still need glaucoma medications after surgery?
Many patients experience reduced dependence on glaucoma medications after surgery. However, some may still require medication to maintain optimal IOP control.
Which filtration surgery is best for me?
The most suitable procedure depends on various factors, including the type and severity of your glaucoma, previous treatments, and overall eye health. Your ophthalmologist will recommend the best option based on your individual case.
Can filtration surgery cure glaucoma?
While filtration surgery can effectively manage IOP and slow disease progression, it cannot cure glaucoma or restore vision already lost. The goal is to preserve remaining vision and prevent further damage.
