Questions and Answers | Q&As

November 7, 2016

QUESTION:

Hello, my name is M*** and my grandmother is suffering for glaucoma. One of her eyes has lost total vision and the other one is soon going to be lost too. Is their anyway she could be able to get treated and have her sight back?

via Email

ANSWER:

A glaucoma drainage device “tube” can be more compatible than a trabeculectomy with contact lens use. Canaloplasty can be even more compatible. There used to be a wonderful canaloplasty surgeon in Florida but he has recently moved to another state. The closest canaloplasty surgeon I can now recommend is in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

I’ve copied my nurse, Ana, on this email in case you need further assistance.

Warm regards,
David Richardson, MD
Patient-Focused Ophthalmologist

San Marino Eye
2020 Huntington Drive
San Marino, CA 91108
626.289.7856

Patient-Focused Websites:
New-Glaucoma-Treatments.com
About-Eyes.com

March 15, 2017

QUESTION:

Hi Dr. Richardson, in your opinion which is better- tube shunt or trabeculectomy? I am left with a decision and neither one looks better to me but from what I been told my only choice left do to my drainage system is no longer working. Trabectome failed and so did Laser and drops aren’t keeping me in a good number. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks from your time

via Email

ANSWER:

There is no clear “winner” in the trabeculectomy vs. glaucoma drainage device face-off. Trabeculectomy seems to provide a slightly greater IOP benefit but at the cost of greater risk.

Warm regards,
David Richardson, MD
Patient-Focused Ophthalmologist

San Marino Eye
2020 Huntington Drive
San Marino, CA 91108
626.289.7856

Patient-Focused Websites:
New-Glaucoma-Treatments.com
About-Eyes.com