Understanding the Different Procedures Considered MIGS

Glaucoma is a medical condition which affects optic nerves in the eyes, causing loss of vision. Visibility is affected by intraocular pressure (IOP), which is the pressure exerted by the movement of fluids in the eyes. Factors including diet, abnormalities in intraocular pressure, genetics, or irregularities in the flow of optic fluids cause conditions such as glaucoma. Technological advancements have led to the development of surgical treatments for glaucoma, with the most recommended procedure being Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS). Read on to learn more about five techniques used during minimally invasive eye surgery.

1. iStent

An iStent Trabecular Micro-Bypass Stent is a medical device inserted into the draining system of the eye. It is made of metal titanium and coated with heparin, an anticoagulant. iStents are the smallest implantable medical devices and are used to regulate and improve the outflow of optical fluids.

2. GATT

Gonioscopy-Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy lowers intraocular pressure in the trabecular meshwork, an area of tissue in the eye located around the base of the cornea, responsible for draining aqueous humor from the eyes. The procedure uses an iTrack microcatheter to bypass the natural draining system and is suitable for pediatric patients with glaucoma.

3. Trabectome

A Trabectome is a microsurgical device which uses heat to excise trabecular meshwork blocking fluid outflow. It is inserted through the cornea and vaporizes a part of the obstructing trabecular meshwork to establish a path for optical fluids. Trabectome surgery is often performed in combination with cataract surgery for patients with a visually significant cataract who require further reduction of glaucoma medications or IOP.

4. XEN Gel Stent

XEN Gel Stents are used in invasive eye surgery to drain aqueous fluid from the anterior chamber into the subconjunctival space. This MIGS procedure does not require incisions and is performed internally by placing the stent directly underneath the conjunctiva (layer which covers the sclera) with its inner tip in the anterior chamber.

5. ECP

Endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) is performed by minimally invasive glaucoma surgeons to reduce intraocular pressure by decreasing the amount of aqueous humor produced. This is done by abscising the ciliary processes (which produce aqueous humor in the eyes) with laser energy.

Final Word

It is crucial to regularly visit an eye care center and consult ophthalmologists to detect glaucoma in its early stages as it causes irreversible blindness if left unchecked. MIGS procedures are used as treatment for glaucoma as they enhance the natural outflow of optic fluids, shunt excess fluid, and regulate fluid production and implant medication, among other benefits. Reach out to our glaucoma specialists at 469-505-2020 or info@teceyecare.com for more information on diabetic eye problems and MIGS procedures. You can also book an appointment through our appointment form to visit our eye care center at Waxahachie, Texas.

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