MIGS – Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery in Las Vegas by Dr. Malitz
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve and can lead to blindness. One of the main risk factors for glaucoma is elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), which can be caused by a buildup of fluid (aqueous humor) in the eye. The traditional treatment for glaucoma has been to lower IOP through the use of medications, laser therapy, or traditional surgical procedures, such as trabeculectomy or tube shunt surgery.
Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) is a newer type of surgery that is designed to lower IOP in a more targeted and less invasive way. These procedures are typically performed in conjunction with cataract surgery, but some can also be performed as standalone procedures.
Canaloplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a microcatheter to open and widen the natural drainage channels (canal) in the eye, allowing for a better outflow of fluid and a reduction in IOP. This procedure can be performed in conjunction with cataract surgery or as a standalone procedure. A newer technique for canaloplasty involves using the Streamline Device by New World Medical. We have experience with this procedure and have found it safe and effective.
The iStent is a tiny stent that is inserted into the natural drainage channels (canal) of the eye, to help improve the outflow of fluid and reduce IOP. It is the first and only FDA-approved MIGS device for use in conjunction with cataract surgery. I can be used as a stand-alone procedure as well but this use may or may not be on-label.
Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a laser procedure that uses a low-energy laser to selectively target the pigmented cells in the drainage angle of the eye, which helps to improve the outflow of fluid and lower IOP. This procedure can be performed prior to cataract surgery or as a standalone procedure.
Goniotomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a goniolens and a small blade to access and open the natural drainage channels (canal) in the eye, allowing for a better outflow of fluid and a reduction in IOP. The Kahook Dual Blade (KDB), is a device that uses a small blade to make a small incision in the trabecular meshwork to improve the outflow of fluid. We typically use this for the goniotomy procedure. This procedure is typically performed in patients with open-angle glaucoma and is usually done in conjunction with cataract surgery but can be done as a stand-alone procedure as well.
Other minimally invasive glaucoma surgery options include the Trabectome, a device that uses a small electrode to remove cells from the drainage angle of the eye.
All these procedures are considered as MIGS, they are safe and effective options for patients with glaucoma and cataracts, or for patients with glaucoma alone. These procedures have a quick recovery time and minimal side effects compared to traditional glaucoma surgery. They are performed on an outpatient basis, and patients can return to their normal activities soon after the procedure.
It is important to note that MIGS procedures are not suitable for all patients, and a thorough evaluation by an experienced ophthalmologist with glaucoma experience and training, like Dr. David Malitz, is necessary to determine the best treatment option. MIGS procedures are most effective in patients with mild to moderate glaucoma and a history of good IOP control with medications.
In conclusion, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) is an effective and safe alternative to traditional glaucoma
Reach out to 866-295-2020 to learn more.