Our Summary

This research paper reviews recent studies on the relationship between cataract removal surgery and the pressure inside the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP). The findings suggest that cataract surgery can effectively lower IOP in patients with both open and closed angle glaucoma, and those with ocular hypertension, a condition where the pressure in the eyes is higher than normal.

In clinical trials, patients with open angle glaucoma who underwent cataract surgery experienced a significant reduction in IOP and also used less glaucoma medication after the procedure. According to data from the EAGLE trials, cataract surgery is more effective at lowering IOP than a procedure called peripheral iridotomy in patients with angle closure glaucoma, and should be considered as the first line of treatment.

The review also found that patients with ocular hypertension who had cataract surgery showed a significant sustained reduction in IOP over a three-year period. The paper concludes that cataract surgery is a good method for reducing IOP in glaucoma patients, with more noticeable results in those with narrow angles and higher baseline IOP levels.

The paper highlights that more research is needed to understand the factors that may influence the degree and duration of the IOP reduction after cataract surgery.

FAQs

  1. Can cataract surgery effectively lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with glaucoma and ocular hypertension?
  2. Is cataract surgery more effective at lowering IOP than peripheral iridotomy in patients with angle closure glaucoma?
  3. How long can the reduction in intraocular pressure be sustained after cataract surgery in patients with ocular hypertension?

Doctor’s Tip

In conclusion, a doctor may advise a patient with glaucoma to consider cataract surgery as a potential option for lowering intraocular pressure and potentially reducing the need for glaucoma medication. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of the surgery with your healthcare provider to determine if it is the right choice for you.

Suitable For

Overall, patients with open angle glaucoma, angle closure glaucoma, and ocular hypertension are typically recommended glaucoma surgery, specifically cataract surgery, to help lower intraocular pressure. The effectiveness of cataract surgery in reducing IOP in these patients has been supported by recent research studies. Additionally, cataract surgery has been shown to reduce the need for glaucoma medication in patients with open angle glaucoma. More research is needed to further understand the impact of cataract surgery on IOP reduction in glaucoma patients.

Timeline

Timeline:

Before surgery:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with glaucoma or ocular hypertension through a comprehensive eye exam.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations to determine the best course of treatment.
  3. Patient discusses surgical options with their ophthalmologist and decides to proceed with cataract surgery.
  4. Patient may need to stop taking certain medications or follow specific pre-operative instructions.

After surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes cataract surgery, which typically takes less than an hour and is performed on an outpatient basis.
  2. In the immediate post-operative period, the patient may experience mild discomfort, blurry vision, and sensitivity to light.
  3. Patient is prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
  4. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and check the effectiveness of the surgery.
  5. Over time, the patient’s IOP is measured to assess the impact of the surgery on their glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
  6. Depending on the results, the patient may be able to reduce or eliminate the need for glaucoma medications.
  7. Long-term follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient’s eye health and IOP levels.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about glaucoma surgery include:

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with glaucoma surgery?
  2. Will I still need to use glaucoma medication after the surgery?
  3. How long will it take to recover from the surgery and what is the expected outcome?
  4. Will the surgery lower my intraocular pressure (IOP) and by how much?
  5. Are there different types of glaucoma surgery available and which one is best for my specific condition?
  6. What are the success rates of glaucoma surgery in patients with my type of glaucoma?
  7. How frequently will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  8. What lifestyle changes should I make post-surgery to ensure the best possible outcome?
  9. Are there any alternative treatments to glaucoma surgery that I should consider?
  10. Can you provide me with information on the surgeon’s experience and success rate with glaucoma surgery?

Reference

Authors: Young CEC, Seibold LK, Kahook MY. Journal: Curr Opin Ophthalmol. 2020 Jan;31(1):15-22. doi: 10.1097/ICU.0000000000000623. PMID: 31688225