For centuries, glaucoma was a highly misunderstood and untreatable disease.

Glaucoma is one of the oldest known medical conditions, with clear references as far back as the Ancient Greeks. In fact, the world glaucoma evolved from the greek word glaukos, which described the sea-green color that would appear in badly affected eyes. The word was initially used to describe many eye conditions, such as cataracts and other inflammatory eye diseases.

Many individuals through history have made contributions to the understanding and treatment of glaucoma. One such individual is Bourdelot, the blind physician of King Louis the XIV. Bourdelot suffered from glaucoma and donated his eyes to glaucoma research when he died. His eyes were studied in detail, leading to the conclusion that glaucoma was not a problem with the lense, but with the eye filtration system.

By the 17th century, doctors were beginning to understand what caused glaucoma. However, due to the technology available they had difficulty distinguishing the disease from cataracts and other eye inflammatory diseases that caused pain and blindness.

In the 1800’s, technology advanced to allow doctors to measure intraocular pressure, opening the way for better diagnosis and treatment. The floodgates were opened, and multiple procedures were introduced.

In 1856, opthamologist van Graefe performed the first known iridectomy. A procedure designed to treat open angle glaucoma by removing the part of the iris that is blocking the drainage.

In 1867 and 1876, opthamologist Van Weckerdescribed methods to drain the excess fluid from the eye, relieving the pressure and maintaining vision. These three instances created a baseline for modern day Glaucoma treatment by introducing the idea of iridectomy, and external fluid drainages.

In 1967, the first aqueous shunt that drained into an external reservoir became available. Extreme advancements were made to the technology, allowing the shunt to be permanently installed to the eye to provide continued relief. Eventually, this leads to the iStent Trabecular Micro-Bypass Stent, which is the smallest medical device created. This stent is installed to the drainage system of the eye to keep it clear.

Modern medicine has provided an array of treatment options to pick from. Our favorite way to treat glaucoma is through MIGS, or Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery. This operations can be done at the same time as cataract surgery and has seen tremendous success rates. Recently, Vision Quest Medicals own Dr. Landon Grange described MIGS in detail.

Glaucoma was once a disease that meant permanent blindness and pain, but can now be effectively and painlessly treated. If you or a loved one is suffering from glaucoma, make an appointment today at Vision Quest Medical Centerto discuss the treatment options available.