Vision loss a frequent occurence after glaucoma surgery

Patients undergoing trabeculectomy need to be aware of the possible complications and risk of either temporary or permanent vision loss associated with trabeculectomy. Trabeculectomy is a procedure which allows fluid to drain faster from the eye. More than half of people who undergo trabeculectomy suffer from temporary and sometimes severe vision loss according to results of a recent study. Permanent vision loss occurs in about 8 in every 100 patients. It's important for people who are at a higher risk of glaucoma to get their eyes checked regularly because if the condition is detected early, the likelihood of surgery being required is lessened. Usually trabeculectomy is reserved only for patients with the most severe form of glaucoma who haven't responded to medication or laser therapy. Elise Ervin Staff Writer