What is MIGS?
Due to advancements in glaucoma research, a new subclass of revolutionary glaucoma procedures has emerged. This has provided a vast number of glaucoma patients with brand new treatment options to help manage their condition. Most of these new treatments fall into a new category referred to as Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS).
At Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley, we are very happy to offer MIGS treatments to our San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, CA patients. MIGS procedures are performed with micro-surgical techniques and equipment with the goal helping to lower intraocular pressure to further slow optic nerve damage. As they are less invasive, MIGS procedures carry a lower risk of complications, making them safer than most traditional glaucoma surgeries. Visit one of our locations in Encino or West Hills, to schedule your MIGS assessment.
Who is an ideal Candidate?
No two glaucoma patients are exactly alike. Patients present with varying subtypes of glaucoma with varying degrees of severity. In addition, each patient has specific visual as well as a specific lifestyle needs; therefore, each glaucoma patient requires a customized plan.
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What To Expect
At Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley, our staff of extremely skilled eye surgeons is able to provide traditional glaucoma surgeries, laser treatments as well as MIGS for our patients. As soon as we have established that someone is eligible for MIGS, we will further explain each of their options. We specialize in a range of MIGS procedures, and each one is performed using the most cutting-edge technology and medical devices. Typically, MIGS treatments are performed as outpatient procedures and are completed quite quickly. Several MIGS treatments only take about 10 minutes to complete
Below, you will find a list of the minimally invasive treatments we offer.
iStent Inject – By creating a pathway through the eye, our experienced ophthalmic surgeons at Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley can implant an iStent Micro-Bypass device to aid in draining aqueous fluid naturally from the eye. iStent is the smallest medical device ever implanted into humans. It decreases ocular pressure by creating a pathway in the high-resistance portion of the eye’s drainage system called the Trabecular Meshwork. The iStent was the first trabecular micro-bypass device approved by the FDA (summer 2012) and is the most thoroughly studied glaucoma device on the market today.
Generally implanted during cataract surgery, the iStent procedure is performed at our outpatient surgical center in Encino under localized sedation. There is no need to create additional incisions, as the stent is placed at the conclusion of the cataract procedure through the same opening. Our team will prep you for surgery with anesthetic (numbing) eye drops and a mild sedative if necessary. You will need to arrange for a ride home prior to surgery.
Kahook Dual Blade – By opening the drainage system up with the Kahook dual blade, our experienced ophthalmologists can improve the natural outflow of aqueous fluids, decrease intraocular pressure, and lower the risk of glaucoma progression (which leads to blindness). The KDB (a single-use blade) has changed the way ophthalmologists perform minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) with considerable success.
TRABECTOME® – The Trabectomeprocedure is a minimally invasive surgical treatment for the management of open-angle glaucoma. The procedure can be performed in conjunction with cataract surgery or by itself. The surgical procedure involves opening a portion of the eye’s internal drainage system utilizing a specially designed handpiece that delivers an electrosurgical pulse. The trabecular meshwork tissues are electro-cauterized and all tissue debris is removed by washing out through an automated irrigation-aspiration system. Usually, 90-120 degrees of tissue is removed from the nasal angle. This procedure does not involve opening up the conjunctival tissues, which is a major advantage, as it does not compromise potential future glaucoma surgery.
Xen Gel Stent – The XEN Gel Stent is a soft, gelatin tube inserted into the eye to increase drainage. The stent is about as wide as a human eyelash and is 6mm long. It creates a new pathway for the fluid in the front of the eye to drain to the area just under the eyeball’s surface. This increased drainage then lowers your intraocular pressure.
The procedure can be done alone or in combination with cataract surgery.
What can I expect after?
As these treatments are minimally invasive, the recovery time is a lot less compared to traditional glaucoma procedures. Almost all patients can go back to work and resume their other daily activities within a rapid timeframe. After the procedure is finished, we thoroughly discuss each patient's post-treatment needs for taking care of their eyes throughout the recovery period. We also require all MIGS patients to schedule a series of important follow-up visits at Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley so we can carefully monitor their intraocular pressure during the recovery period.
Patients can expect to have a few prescriptions to fill after their surgery to prevent infection and to decrease inflammation within their eyes. It is very important to follow the post-surgical instructions and attend all follow-up appointments with your eye care provider as the treatment regimen is frequently modified.
MIGS FAQs
What if glaucoma goes untreated?
Glaucoma can cause irreversible damage to the optic nerve. That's why it is so important to consult an eye doctor for routine exams and early detection. The specialists at OAVS are trained to recognize and diagnose glaucoma to slow the progression of the disease. MIGS can help reduce intraocular pressure and save your vision.
Is MIGS safe?
Yes! MIGS is extremely safe and effective when performed by a professional. MIGS is also a very precise process, and our team uses advanced technology to monitor and ensure the safety of each patient. If you're still unsure about MIGS, we invite you to call our office and discover how countless other patients have benefited from treatment.
How long does MIGS last?
Most patients turn to solutions like prescription eye drops to reduce intraocular pressure and prevent glaucoma from affecting their vision. With MIGS in Los Angeles, CA, we aim to provide treatment options that don't require the use of daily eye drops. MIGS is an exciting advancement for glaucoma patients who want long-term results.
ADVANCED GLAUCOMA MANAGEMENT
In the past, patients suffering from the later stages of glaucoma only had one solution for treatment. However, MIGS and laser surgeries now allow us to offer numerous kinds of treatments to help patients manage their glaucoma. Contact Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley in Encino or West Hills, to ask about a MIGS exam with an experienced ophthalmologist who can help you effectively manage your condition.
