What is a Trabeculectomy?
A trabeculectomy is the classic glaucoma operation for pressure that drops and laser cannot control. The surgeon creates a tiny, guarded trapdoor in the wall of the eye so fluid can filter out to a small reservoir (a “bleb”) hidden under the upper lid, where the body reabsorbs it. It reliably achieves low pressures, which is why it is still used for advanced disease, but it demands meticulous after-care: frequent follow-up visits, and lifelong awareness that a red, painful eye with discharge could be a bleb infection — an emergency that needs same-day care.
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Glaucoma can be treated with a special procedure, called a Trabeculectomy. During a trabeculectomy an alternate channel is created through which fluid inside the eye can exit, when the usual pathways become blocked. The fluid collects outside the eye in a tiny pocket where it is then reabsorbed by the body. This lowers the pressure of fluid inside of the eye, which, helps prevent further damage to the optic nerve from glaucoma. During the weeks following surgery, eye drops must be used to prevent inflammation and infection. Frequent follow-up visits are necessary, so that the doctor can follow your progress and determine if any further treatment is required.
Medical sources
- aao.org/eye-health/diseases/trabeculectomy-12
- americanglaucomasociety.net/patient-family-resources/glaucoma-basics-faqs
This page and video are for general patient education and are not a substitute for a medical examination, diagnosis, or treatment. Eye conditions vary by individual. For advice about your eyes, schedule an evaluation with May Eye Care Center. In an emergency, call 911.
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