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Health Library Goniotomy for GlaucomaFrom Healthwise

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Goniotomy for Glaucoma

Surgery Overview

Goniotomy is a surgical procedure in which the doctor uses a lens called a goniolens to see the structures of the front part of the eye (anterior chamber). An opening is made in the trabecular meshwork, the group of tiny canals located in the drainage angle, where fluid leaves the eye. The new opening provides a way for fluid to flow out of the eye. Goniotomy is a surgery for children only.

What To Expect After Surgery

Babies who have goniotomy for glaucoma need to be watched carefully after surgery to make sure their glaucoma is controlled. The pressure in their eyes needs to be measured frequently.

Why It Is Done

Goniotomy is used to treat congenital glaucoma if the clear covering (cornea) over the iris, the colored part of the eye, is not cloudy.

How Well It Works

Goniotomy can successfully treat congenital glaucoma 80% to 90% of the time when symptoms start when the child is 1 month to 2 years old. Goniotomy is not as successful in children whose glaucoma was present at birth or began late in childhood.1 If pressure in the eye increases, the procedure may need to be repeated.

Risks

Complications of goniotomy include bleeding, infection, and cataracts.

What To Think About

Goniotomy has to be repeated in about 50% of the eyes of children who have the procedure.1

Medicines may still be needed after goniotomy to control pressure in the eyes.

Complete the surgery information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you prepare for this surgery.

References

Citations

  1. Kipp MA (2003). Childhood glaucoma. Pediatric Clinics of North America, 50(1): 89–104.

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerKathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerChristopher J. Rudnisky, MD, MPH, FRCSC - Ophthalmology
Last RevisedMay 5, 2010

Last Revised: May 5, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, MPH, FRCSC - Ophthalmology

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

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