Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
trabeculectomy
Pronunciation: truh-BEK-yoo-LEK-toh-mee
A glaucoma filtration surgery that creates a new drainage pathway for aqueous humor to reduce intraocular pressure.
Full Definition
Trabeculectomy is a surgical procedure designed to lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients by creating an alternative drainage route for aqueous humor. The surgery involves creating a partial-thickness scleral flap and removing a small portion of trabecular meshwork, allowing aqueous to flow from the anterior chamber to a subconjunctival filtering bleb. Anti-metabolites like mitomycin C or 5-fluorouracil may be used to prevent scarring and improve long-term success rates.
Usage
Usage note: Not to be confused with trabeculoplasty, which is a laser procedure.
In Context
- "Trabeculectomy with mitomycin C was performed to achieve target intraocular pressure." — Operative note
- "The filtering bleb appeared well-formed at the one-week post-trabeculectomy visit." — Follow-up examination report
Also known as
filtration surgery
glaucoma filtration procedure
Contrasted with
tube shunt surgery
cyclodestructive procedures
Don't confuse with
trabeculoplasty
trabectome