Goniotomy

Who is the beneficiary of Goniotomy?

This is a favoured procedure for young and congenitally diagnosed glaucoma infants – specifically, an age of two years or less. It is also indicated in toddlers with secondary glaucomas as a result of trauma, surgery, or other anatomical changes in relation to the trabecular meshwork.

How is Goniotomy performed?

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia so that the child stays at ease and motionless during surgery. These steps include:-

• Visualisation – the surgeon uses the Gonioscope, which is a special lens to view the drainage angle of the eye.
• Incision – A small incision is made through the trabecular meshwork using a fine surgical instrument such as a Goniotomy knife or microcatheter. This creates a new channel so that the aqueous humour can drain, resulting in a lowering of IOP.
• Completion – Upon enhancement of drainage, the instrument is removed by the surgeon completing the procedure. The entire procedure takes about 30-60 minutes.

Does Goniotomy hurt?

No, it does not hurt as it is done under general anesthesia. After surgery, the child may have mild discomfort or irritation completely manageable with the medications given.

What is the success rate of Goniotomy?

Goniotomy is said to have a high success rate in controlling IOP and preserving vision when performed early and appropriately selected regarding the case. Success often depends mainly on the amount of damage caused by glaucoma before surgery.

What are the important benefits of Goniotomy?

• Pressure Control – It effectively lowers the IOP to safeguard the optic nerve against further damage.
• Vision Preservation – Early intervention could save a child’s vision and improve their quality of life significantly.
• Minimally invasive – This isn’t as invasive as other surgeries done for glaucoma and has a shorter recovery period.
• High Success Rate – Particularly effective in young children with congenital glaucoma.

Is there any risk related to Goniotomy?

All surgical procedures, in fact, have their own risks, and Goniotomy also carries risks, although serious complications are rare. These may include some of the following:

• Temporary redness, swelling, or irritation of the eye.
• Infection, which is preventable with proper post-operative care
• Hyphema, which is bleeding in the front chamber of the eye and is usually resolving on its own.
• Inadequate pressure control requiring further procedures

At Tender Palm Eye Hospital, our experienced, specialised paediatric ophthalmologists take every precaution to minimise risks and ensure successful results.

How does Goniotomy recovery proceed?

Recovery from Goniotomy occurs within a few hours, and most usually discharges the child on the same day. Some important points to ensure the well-being of your patient’s recovery are:-

• Immediate Aftercare – The eye sometimes gets covered by the shield for the first day. Eye drops or ointments assigned are useful to decrease inflammation and also prevent infection.
• Subsequent Visits – Regular visits will keep a check on the IOP and healing process. Some tests may be done, like tonometry, which measures the eye pressure by the surgeon.
• Activity Restriction – Parents must advise against rubbing or injuring the eye at this time.

How long will it take to lead a normal life?

Most children recover fairly quickly, usually within 1-2 weeks, when symptomatology such as light sensitivity or redness improves gradually. The complete benefits of the operation will take longer to measure, depending on the severity of the glaucoma prior to surgery.

What can the parents get post-Goniotomy?

Post-surgery, parents could expect:-

• Decreased IOP and improved eye health.
• Make the child feel comfortable and have gastrointestinal discomfort and symptoms of tearing or light suffering reduced.
• An image in his world exists as an effort to preserve the vision to avoid any future damages.

Will additional treatments be needed after Goniotomy?

In a few cases, the kids might require more medications or follow-up surgeries to maintain their pressures well controlled. Further treatment will depend on various factors such as surgical response and glaucoma progress at the end.

What’s the long-term outlook for children undergoing Goniotomy?

In general, early interventions render a very fruitful long-term prognosis as undergone by such children. These children are finally successful after Goniotomy because of sustained eye pressure and proper vision. However, it is an ongoing chronic disease, so lifetime monitoring is necessary.

Why Choose Tender Palm Eye Hospital for Goniotomy Procedure in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Eye Hospital has its mark among the premier hospitals in paediatric ophthalmology, including:-

• Experienced Specialists – Our esteemed team includes paediatric glaucoma specialists dealing with congenital and very complex cases.
• High-End Technology – The state-of-the-art surgical equipment provides safety and accuracy during surgical procedures.
• Patient-Centered – The kind staff and child-friendly environment help in making patients and their families comfortable.
• All-Round Support – All-inclusive diagnosis to post-surgical care, customized therapies, and full commitment are given to address the specific needs of each child.

At Tender Palm Eye Hospital, we continue to preserve and improve your child’s vision through high-end techniques such as Goniotomy. Contact us today to book an appointment and avail enhanced vision for your child.

To Schedule an Expert Consultation for Goniotomy in Lucknow, India