Advances in Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery
It has affected millions in the world and is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness, especially in old people. Treatment of glaucoma has always been eye drops and more invasive surgery; however, there has been a completely new alternative recently in the form of Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS), which has been effective and minimally risky. This article carries the improvements in MIGS, its advantages, and the ways it is changing the concept of treating glaucoma.
What Is Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery?
Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery embodies a variety of surgical techniques aimed at treating the condition with less risk, trauma, and time-consuming healing in comparison to traditional glaucoma surgeries. These surgeries involve smaller incisions with less reliance upon advanced technology while employing a more humane approach towards reducing intraocular pressure (IOP), the primary risk factor involved in glaucoma.
Types of MIGS Procedures
A large number of MIGS procedures are currently available. Each employs differing techniques or devices to further improve drainage of the eye. Almost all aim at lowering intraocular pressure to restrict optic nerve damage.
iStent—The iStent is among the most commonly used devices in MIGS. It is a tiny, micro-invasive implant inserted in the aqueous humour drainage path for better aqueous humour outflow and lower IOP. The iStent is usually used in cataract-surgery patients and has shown good promise for the long-term reduction of IOP.
Hydrus Microstent—This is one of the common devices, Hydrus Microstent, which is implanted in the Schlemm’s canal of the human eye. It restores proper outflow of fluid, and it is used in patients with progressed stages of glaucoma. Similar to iStent, it is a small device and minimally invasive so that the recovery would be faster.
Trabectome—The Trabectome procedure entails the use of a specialised probe to excise tissue from the trabecular meshwork, a component of the eye responsible for fluid drainage. The procedure reduces IOP by improving fluid outflow and is particularly effective in mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma.
Gonioscopy-Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy (GATT)—This is an advanced current MIGS technique that includes an incision in the eye’s drainage and using a microcatheter to remove tissue. This is a good approach for patients who have advanced glaucoma but who want to avoid issues with conventional surgeries like trabeculectomy.
Benefits of MIGS Over Traditional Glaucoma Surgery
Less Invasive—The characterising feature of MIGS is that it is minimally invasive. MIGS procedures are conducted through tiny incisions, unlike traditional glaucoma surgeries, which require large incisions and longer recovery periods. Much less eye trauma is caused by the procedures. Minimally invasive techniques allow for much less recovery time with lower complication rates.
Faster Recovery—Speedier recovery after surgery is one of the most attractive features of MIGS compared with normal glaucoma surgeries. Most patients can return to their routine activities in just a couple of days, while normal surgery takes several weeks.
Lower Risk of Complications—Conventional surgical procedures bear more associated risks of complications such as infection, scarring, and visual loss. Compared to these surgeries, MIGS procedures carry much lower risks for these complications since their incisions are fewer and disruption with the eye structures is minimised.
Better Quality of Life—MIGS helps patients quickly recover from surgery with fewer complications and therefore helps them return to a better quality of life in a shorter period. Improvement in their IOP with MIGS gives patients better control over their glaucoma and decreases the risk of additional vision loss.
The Future of MIGS
Progress in technology and research has put MIGS procedures in line with globalisation and upscaling to more customised solutions for glaucoma patients. The researchers are busy improving device designs, perfecting surgical techniques, and developing minimally invasive procedures that could provide permanent solutions for controlling glaucoma.
Conclusion
With the transition from traditional surgical approaches to minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, the future for the management of glaucoma looks bright. Associated with reduced risks and faster recovery, MIGS represents an important advance in glaucoma treatment with good long-term results. Such a procedure could benefit many patients with mild-to-moderate glaucoma and those looking for alternatives to drops and traditional surgery.
Whether it is you or your loved one suffering from glaucoma, don’t waste any time; get acquainted with the latest treatment options. Contact Rutnin Eye Hospital for a consultation about what the benefits of minimally invasive glaucoma surgery are. Enhance the quality of life and maintain your vision for the coming time.
