3 The procedure

3 The procedure

3.1 Trabecular stent bypass microsurgery aims to reduce intraocular pressure by creating a bypass channel between the anterior chamber and Schlemm's canal to improve drainage of aqueous humor.

3.2 This procedure is often combined with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens insertion for the concomitant treatment of cataracts. Using local anaesthesia, a small corneal incision is made and viscoelastic is inserted into the anterior chamber. Under gonioscopic guidance and using a special applicator, a stent is slid through the trabecular meshwork (a small slit may be necessary) and into Schlemm's canal. The position of the stent is verified, then the applicator and viscoelastic are removed.

3.3 Either 1 or multiple stents may be inserted during the same procedure.

  • National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)