Our Summary

This study looked at changes in eye pressure in the “consensual eye” (the eye not operated on) following surgery for glaucoma on the other eye. Researchers reviewed data from 187 patients who had undergone a type of eye surgery called trabeculectomy or had an AGV (a medical device) implanted. They found that, on average, pressure in the consensual eye increased noticeably one week and one month after surgery. About a third of patients needed some kind of additional treatment to reduce this pressure, and about a sixth ended up needing surgery on the consensual eye as well. The study also found that a drug called acetazolamide, used pre-surgery, resulted in a significant increase in eye pressure. The conclusion is that doctors should closely monitor and manage any increase in eye pressure in the consensual eye following unilateral (one-sided) glaucoma surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the study’s conclusion on the changes in eye pressure in the consensual eye following glaucoma surgery on the other eye?
  2. How many patients needed additional treatment or surgery on the consensual eye due to increased eye pressure after the initial surgery?
  3. What is the effect of using the drug acetazolamide pre-surgery on eye pressure?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might advise a patient undergoing ocular surgery to closely monitor the pressure in both eyes following the procedure. They may recommend regular check-ups to detect any increase in eye pressure early on and provide prompt treatment if necessary to prevent further complications. Additionally, the doctor may discuss the potential need for additional surgery on the consensual eye if the pressure continues to rise. It is important for patients to follow their doctor’s recommendations and report any changes or symptoms promptly to ensure the best possible outcome after ocular surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended ocular surgery include those with:

  • Glaucoma
  • Cataracts
  • Retinal diseases
  • Corneal disorders
  • Strabismus (crossed eyes)
  • Refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism) that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses

Timeline

Before ocular surgery:

  1. Patient consults with an ophthalmologist to discuss the need for surgery and potential risks and benefits.
  2. Patient undergoes preoperative evaluations and tests to assess the health of the eye and determine the best surgical approach.
  3. Patient receives preoperative instructions, such as discontinuing certain medications and fasting before surgery.
  4. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure, which may involve removing cataracts, repairing retinal detachments, or treating glaucoma, among other conditions.

After ocular surgery:

  1. Patient is monitored closely in the immediate postoperative period for any complications or signs of infection.
  2. Patient may experience discomfort, blurry vision, and sensitivity to light in the days following surgery.
  3. Patient may need to use prescribed eye drops or medications to prevent infection and promote healing.
  4. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the ophthalmologist to assess the success of the surgery and monitor any changes in vision or eye pressure.
  5. Patient may need additional treatments or surgeries on the other eye if complications arise or if the initial surgery does not fully address the underlying eye condition.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications of ocular surgery?

  2. How will the surgery impact my vision and overall eye health?

  3. What is the success rate of this type of surgery for my specific condition?

  4. What is the recovery process like and how long will it take to see results?

  5. Will I need to take any medications before or after the surgery?

  6. How often will I need to come in for follow-up appointments after the surgery?

  7. What can I do to optimize my recovery and ensure the best possible outcome?

  8. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make before or after the surgery?

  9. What signs or symptoms should I watch out for that may indicate a complication?

  10. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?

Reference

Authors: Rajsrinivas D, Dubey S, Pegu J, Majumdar A. Journal: Indian J Ophthalmol. 2023 Mar;71(3):873-879. doi: 10.4103/ijo.IJO_1909_22. PMID: 36872698