Glaucoma is a disorder of the optic nerve, a bundle of fibers that connect the eyeball and the brain. An imbalance between the eye’s fluid production and the outflow of that fluid is typically the cause. If the fibers composing the nerve become damaged by high levels of pressure on the optic nerve, loss of vision will occur. Because this damage is gradual, many patients are unaware, and the damage caused by glaucoma is irreversible and vision loss is permanent. Regular eye exams and special diagnostic testing by an ophthalmologist are an important part of detecting glaucoma in early stages.
There is no cure for glaucoma. However, Dr. Putnoi can recommend treatment options to lower and stabilize the eye pressure, reducing further damage to the optic nerve, and protecting you from vision loss. Several types of eye drops can help decrease eye fluid production or improve eye fluid outflow. Dr. Putnoi also performs laser procedures of two types (YAG or SLT) which can help improve eye fluid circulation. Detailed assessments by Dr. Putnoi and his technician team can be done in our Wellesley or Waltham office.
MIGS: A Newer option for glaucoma management
Minimally invasive or micro-incisional glaucoma surgery (MIGS) is a treatment option for patients who have a glaucoma diagnosis and are undergoing cataract surgery. This is a procedure performed in the operating room, on the same session as cataract surgery. After the cataract has been removed and the intraocular lens implant of your choice has been placed, the surgeon can insert an additional microscopic device into the eye to help with lowering eye pressure. Several devices are presently FDA-approved in the U.S., including the iStent. Dr. Putnoi utilizes the iStent (also known as the trabecular micro-bypass stent) and now the newer generation iStent inject.
