FAQs / They say advanced glaucoma does not do well with canaloplasty. Is this true?

May 18, 2018

QUESTION:

Dr Richardson, Canaloplasty did not work for me. My glaucoma is too advanced and it failed. My pressure shot up to 50. I am now going to Bascom Palmer. They say advanced glaucoma does not do well with canaloplasty. My pressure was too high.

via Email

ANSWER:

I am sorry to hear that your experience with canaloplasty was not successful. Although I have had patients with high IOPs and advanced glaucoma undergo canaloplasty with resultant lowering of the IOP, extreme elevation of the IOP is thought to be an indicator that the natural drainage system (Schlemm’s canal and collector channel system) is so dysfunctional as to potentially be beyond rejuvenating. When the natural drainage system cannot be reopened then bypass with a trabeculectomy or glaucoma drainage device (“tube”) is often necessary to control the IOP. Indeed, even glaucoma drainage devices have difficulty adequately lowering the IOP when the initial IOP is elevated above 40mmHg. I am hopeful that with additional surgery you will be able to achieve the needed IOP lowering.

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

Posted in: Canaloplasty, Canaloplasty and Other Conditions, Canaloplasty Safety and Efficacy, What Is Canaloplasty?