2 Indications and current treatments

2 Indications and current treatments

2.1 Open-angle glaucoma is a chronic condition associated with elevated intraocular pressure and leads to progressive damage to the optic nerve. Early stages are usually asymptomatic but as the condition progresses it causes visual impairment and, if untreated, blindness.

2.2 Treatment is usually eye drops containing drugs that either reduce the production of aqueous humor or increase its drainage. Surgical procedures such as trabeculectomy, drainage tubes, deep sclerectomy, viscocanalostomy or laser trabeculoplasty may also be used.

  • National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)