Type of Surgery
Information
Last updated: 02/17/2009
The purpose of a goniotomy is to clear the obstruction to aqueous outflow from the eye, which in turn lowers the intraocular pressure (IOP). Lowering the IOP helps to stabilize the enlargement of the cornea and the distension and stretching of the...
eye that often occur in congenital glaucoma. The size of the eye, however, will not return to normal. Most importantly, once the aqueous outflow improves, damage to the optic nerve is halted or reversed. The patient's visual acuity may improve after surgery.
Goniotomies are commonly performed to treat the following eye disorders:
- Congenital glaucomas.
- Aniridia. Aniridia is a condition in which the patient lacks a visible iris. A goniotomy is performed as a preventive measure, as 50%–75% of patients with aniridia will develop glaucoma.
- Uveitic glaucoma associated with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
- Maternal rubella syndrome.
- JOAG.
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Other Information
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.
Goniotomy is used to treat congenital glaucoma if the clear covering (cornea) over the iris, the colored part of the eye, is not cloudy.
Other Information
Surgeons aim for results of 20/20 or better so that you can perform most daily activities without your glasses. However, there is a possibility that after surgery, you may need to wear reading glasses or corrective lenses for at least some activities.
-Eye Surgery Education Council
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