Combined cataract-glaucoma surgery treats cloudy lens and raised eye pressure in one operation. This approach can simplify recovery and reduce the number of procedures.
How the combined procedure works
Surgeons remove the cataract and place a clear lens implant as usual. At the same sitting they perform a glaucoma procedure, such as trabeculectomy or MIGS.
- Shared anaesthetic and theatre time cover both problems together
- Planning considers lens power and target post-operative pressure
- Eye drop regimens afterwards may differ from standard cataract surgery
- Follow-up focuses on both clarity of vision and optic nerve protection
Who might benefit
This strategy can be ideal for people with visually significant cataract and progressing glaucoma. It may not suit every case.
- Reduces the need for separate recovery periods and extra hospital visits
- Can improve vision while also lowering dependence on glaucoma drops
- Risks reflect both components, so detailed consent is important
- Discussion should include alternatives such as staging procedures separately
