MIGS: The New Age Treatment For Glaucoma
MIGS: The New Age Treatment For Glaucoma
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness. It is a complicated disease in which damage to the optic nerve leads to progressive loss of vision. The optic nerve transmits visual data from the eye to the brain, and when this gets damaged, our vision suffers.
The Internal Pressure of the Eye
Usually, aqueous humor, the fluid in the front chambers of the eye is able to drain away at the same rate it is produced which keeps everything balanced. But when the drainage canals become blocked, it causes Glaucoma. As a result, the pressure building eventually pushes the lens back. This, in turn, causes the vitreous humor, the fluid in the larger rear chamber of the eye to press against the blood vessels and optic nerve, thereby damaging them.
Although Glaucoma causes permanent loss of vision and even blindness in extreme cases, early detection of the disease and the right support at the right time can help prolong the impact of the disease.
Glaucoma Treatment
Once diagnosed, there are different treatment options and techniques to stop the progression of the disease. Usually, a patient is started on eye drops in an attempt to control the pressure. If that doesn’t work, the next step involves surgery or the use of lasers to reduce pressure in the eye. After this course of treatment, if the pressure is not under control, more traditional glaucoma surgeries are considered. If you are diagnosed with glaucoma or if you have a family history of glaucoma, it’s important to speak with your eye doctor and discuss various treatment options that are best suited for you.
At Sharp Sight Eye Hospitals we have state-of-the-art machines for diagnosis of Glaucoma. Our team of Glaucoma specialists are experienced and expert at performing minimally invasive Glaucoma surgeries.
What is Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery?
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) is a group of procedures intended to reduce the pressure that builds up in the eye. Sometimes a few techniques have to be combined to offer the best visual results. Some of these procedures decrease fluid production in the eye while others increase the outflow of it.
What is the difference between MIGS and Traditional Glaucoma Surgery?
The procedures are the most notable difference between traditional surgery and MIGS. Another is the safety aspect and the recovery time.
What is the Typical Recovery Period?
The most significant benefit of having a less invasive surgery like MIGS is shorter recovery time. The average recovery period for a Traditional Surgery is two to three months. It also limits you from bending, lifting heavy objects and using great exertion during that time. While you also have to take it easy after undergoing a MIGS procedure, however, the recovery period is only one to four weeks.
Who are the best candidates for Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery?
Not everyone is a candidate for Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery. Patients with mild to moderate glaucoma are usually recommended to undergo MIGS. However, a person with a severe case of glaucoma will often benefit from one of the more traditional procedures.
Besides, MIGS works best for people who are already planning on having cataract surgery. It only adds 5 to 10 minutes to an already scheduled surgery.
But then each patient is different and should be evaluated on an individual basis.
So, if you have a family history of Glaucoma get your eyes examined regularly. Timely tests are essential in case of Glaucoma diagnosis as the disease shows no prior symptoms. And, if you are already diagnosed with Glaucoma, adhere to the treatment plan as prescribed and follow your doctor’s advise.
