Trabeculectomy: What Is It and How Does It Work?

Trabeculectomy is glaucoma surgery that creates a new route for fluid to leave the eye and lower intraocular pressure. Its purpose is to reduce the risk of further optic-nerve damage; it cannot restore vision already lost to glaucoma.

When may it be considered?

An ophthalmologist may discuss trabeculectomy when eye drops, laser treatment or another approach has not controlled pressure sufficiently, or when the clinical situation requires a different strategy. The decision depends on glaucoma type and severity, target pressure, previous surgery, scarring risk and the other eye.

How it works

A small drainage opening is made beneath the upper eyelid. Fluid collects under the eye’s surface tissue in a filtering area called a bleb. The surgeon may use an anti-scarring medicine and adjust sutures during follow-up. These choices are individual and require monitoring.

Risks and follow-up

Risks include bleeding, infection, pressure that is too high or too low, fluid leakage, bleb problems, cataract, corneal change, inflammation and loss of vision. The drainage route may scar and further treatment may be needed. Drops, driving, work and activity restrictions must follow the treating team’s instructions.

Severe pain, sudden vision reduction, increasing redness or discharge after surgery requires urgent assessment. Regular lifelong glaucoma follow-up remains necessary even when pressure improves.

Independent information is available from the National Eye Institute and Cambridge University Hospitals NHS. Confirm the current contracted Revitalize specialist and facility through the contact route.

General information only.