Sclerotomy

Sclerotomy is a surgical treatment for glaucoma that involves removing part of the scleral tissue to improve fluid drainage from the eye and reduce intraocular pressure. This method is often used in cases where other glaucoma treatments are ineffective.

The essence of the procedure is to make a small incision in the sclera of the eye and remove a small piece of tissue. This allows fluid in the eye to better circulate in and out of the eye, reducing intraocular pressure. Sclerotomy can be performed as a stand-alone procedure or in combination with other glaucoma treatments, such as laser trabeculoplasty or implantation of drainage devices.

Sclerotomy can be performed in both the open and closed angle of the anterior chamber of the eye. In an open angle, the sclerotomy is performed on the anterior surface of the sclera, while in a closed angle, on the posterior surface. In each case, the goal remains the same - to improve the outflow of fluid from the eye and reduce intraocular pressure.

Although sclerotomy is considered a safe procedure, like any surgical procedure, it may come with certain risks and complications, such as bleeding, infection, cataract development, or retinal detachment. Therefore, it is important to discuss all the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with your doctor and make an informed decision about whether sclerotomy is appropriate for treating your glaucoma.

In conclusion, sclerotomy is a surgical treatment for glaucoma that improves the drainage of fluid from the eye and reduces intraocular pressure. It is a safe procedure that can be effective in cases where other glaucoma treatments are ineffective. However, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before having the procedure.



Sclerotomy is a surgical operation in which the sclera, the dense fibrous membrane of the eyeball, is dissected.

The term "sclerotomy" consists of two parts:

  1. “Sclero-” refers to the sclera, the outer layer of the eye.

  2. "Tomia" comes from the Greek word "tome", which means "cut" or "dissection".

Thus, sclerotomy literally means "an incision in the sclera."

Sclerotomy surgery can be performed for several reasons:

  1. For the treatment of glaucoma by reducing intraocular pressure.

  2. To remove foreign bodies caught in the eye.

  3. As an access for other intraocular operations.

  4. For administering medications directly into the eye.

When performing a sclerotomy, the incision is made very carefully so as not to damage the adjacent tissues of the eye. This is a precise microsurgical operation that requires a highly qualified surgeon. Correctly performed sclerotomy allows you to achieve the desired therapeutic effect with minimal risk of complications.