Tube shunt surgery is a glaucoma operation that implants a small tube and plate device to divert fluid from inside the eye to a reservoir under the conjunctiva. It is used when intraocular pressure remains too high despite medications, laser, or other surgery.
How Tube Shunts Work
The surgeon secures a plate on the sclera and inserts a fine tube into the front of the eye so aqueous humour can drain to the plate, where it is absorbed by surrounding tissues. This reduces pressure on the optic nerve.
- Common implants include various valved and non‑valved drainage devices
- Often chosen for complex or refractory glaucoma, or after failed trabeculectomy
- Sutures, ligatures, or valves help control flow in the early healing phase
- Topical drops may still be needed to fine‑tune pressure
Recovery and Long-Term Care
Vision can be blurred for days to weeks after surgery while the eye settles. Lifelong monitoring is required to check tube position, bleb health, and intraocular pressure.
- Potential complications include tube blockage, erosion, double vision, or very low pressure
- Most problems are manageable if detected early at follow‑up
- Patients should seek urgent review for sudden pain, redness, or vision change
- Successful shunts can control pressure for many years in otherwise difficult cases
