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Glaucoma Drainage Devices: A Practical Illustrated Guide

Caleb Long

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Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. It is characterized by damage to the optic nerve, which is the nerve that carries visual information from the eye to the brain. Glaucoma is often caused by increased intraocular pressure (IOP),which is the pressure inside the eye.

Glaucoma drainage devices (GDDs) are surgically implanted devices used to reduce IOP in patients with glaucoma who have failed medical and laser therapy. GDDs work by creating a new pathway for fluid to drain out of the eye. This helps to lower IOP and prevent further damage to the optic nerve.

GDDs are typically indicated for patients with glaucoma who have failed medical and laser therapy. Medical therapy includes the use of eye drops to lower IOP. Laser therapy is a procedure that uses a laser to create a small hole in the iris, which is the colored part of the eye. This hole allows fluid to drain out of the eye and lower IOP.

Glaucoma Drainage Devices: A Practical Illustrated Guide

by Farhad B. Naini

4.4 out of 5

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GDDs may also be indicated for patients with glaucoma who have certain types of glaucoma, such as angle-closure glaucoma or neovascular glaucoma. Angle-closure glaucoma occurs when the iris blocks the drainage angle, which is the area where fluid drains out of the eye. Neovascular glaucoma occurs when new blood vessels grow on the iris, which can block the drainage angle.

There are two main types of GDDs:

Valved GDDs have a valve that opens and closes to regulate the flow of fluid out of the eye. Valved GDDs are typically used for patients with glaucoma who have a higher risk of complications, such as infection or bleeding.
Non-valved GDDs do not have a valve. They are typically used for patients with glaucoma who have a lower risk of complications.

There are a variety of different GDDs available, each with its own unique design and features. The type of GDD that is best for a particular patient will depend on their individual needs and preferences.

GDD surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision in the eye and inserts the GDD. The GDD is then attached to the sclera, which is the white part of the eye.

GDD surgery is a relatively safe procedure, but there are some risks involved, such as infection, bleeding, and damage to the eye. The success rate of GDD surgery is typically high, but there is a chance that the GDD will not be effective in lowering IOP.

The most common complications of GDD surgery include:

Infection
Bleeding
Hypotony (low IOP)
Corneal edema (swelling of the cornea)
Cataracts
Glaucoma progression

The risk of complications is higher in patients who have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or a weakened immune system.

The success rate of GDD surgery is typically high. Most patients experience a significant reduction in IOP after surgery. This can help to prevent further damage to the optic nerve and preserve vision.

However, there is a chance that the GDD will not be effective in lowering IOP. This can occur for a variety of reasons, such as scarring around the GDD or a blockage in the drainage tube.

If the GDD is not effective in lowering IOP, additional surgery may be necessary.

GDDs are an effective treatment for glaucoma in patients who have failed medical and laser therapy. GDDs can help to lower IOP and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. However, there are some risks involved with GDD surgery, and the success rate is not 100%.

Patients who are considering GDD surgery should carefully weigh the benefits and risks involved. They should also discuss the procedure with their doctor in detail.

Glaucoma Drainage Devices: A Practical Illustrated Guide

by Farhad B. Naini

4.4 out of 5