You’ve been diagnosed with glaucoma, a condition that threatens your vision when left untreated as the fluid in your eye builds up to dangerous levels. It can get to a point that the pressure it applies on the optic nerve causes irreparable damage. The most common approach to treat it is to prescribe eye drops and oral medication. On top of everything else, you have discovered that you need cataract surgery. You are overwhelmed and don’t know what to do. Fortunately, the iStent procedure has been created that can help you to treat both of your conditions at once. You can see clearly as your cataracts are removed. At the same time, the procedure will relieve the pressure that has been building in your eyes, giving your vision the protection it needs.
How Can iStent Take Care of Both Conditions at Once?
The iStent procedure actually focuses on your glaucoma. A device is inserted into your eye to make sure the IOP, or intraocular pressure, is reduced as the level of fluid in your eye is decreased. While it does not specifically address cataracts, implanting the iStent during cataract surgery is an ideal time to take care of two issues at once. It is important to understand that the iStent procedure can be performed by itself for patients who do not have cataracts as an issue.
What Happens During the iStent Procedure?
You will be given a local anesthetic to numb your eyes during your procedure. At that time, Dr. Patel will implant the iStent device in your eye. The main goal is to create a new pathway for drainage of the fluid in your eye. When you have glaucoma, the bypass in your eye that naturally managed the level of fluid in your eyes has become blocked. A new bypass is made possible by the iStent. It’s permanent, it will ensure there is an increased outflow of the fluid that has been building in your eye, and the fluid in your eye will begin flowing properly.
Why Combine iStent with Cataract Surgery?
If you are dealing with cataracts in combination with glaucoma, choosing to have the iStent implanted at the time of your cataract procedure helps you to combat what could be a debilitating condition. You are giving yourself the opportunity to take control of your glaucoma when you are getting rid of cataracts. Take care of both conditions and give yourself the prospect of improved vision.
Learn More About iStent Surgery Today
Whether you are only dealing with glaucoma or cataracts are an issue as well, the iStent can improve your condition. It’s a step in the right direction to keep your glaucoma from getting the best of you. Talk to our eye doctor to learn more about iStent and if this is the right option for you. You need to eliminate excess fluid in your eyes. This procedure is an effective way to treat your condition. Best of all, you won’t even know it is there. Contact us today at the Wichita Vision Institute to schedule your consultation.