Glaucoma Diagnosis and Treatment

At ELZA, we are committed to preserving your vision through early detection and personalized treatment of glaucoma. Under the expert care of Prof. Kaweh Mansouri, a globally recognized glaucoma specialist, we offer state-of-the-art diagnostics and a full spectrum of medical, laser, and surgical interventions tailored to your individual needs.

What Is It?

Understanding Glaucoma

Glaucoma encompasses a group of eye conditions characterized by damage to the optic nerve, often associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). This damage can lead to irreversible vision loss if not identified and managed promptly. Notably, glaucoma often progresses silently, without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, underscoring the importance of regular eye examinations.

Advanced Diagnostic Tools at ELZA

Our clinic employs cutting-edge technologies to ensure precise and early detection of glaucoma:

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides high-resolution cross-sectional images of the optic nerve and retinal layers, facilitating the detection of early structural changes.
Visual Field Testing: Assesses peripheral vision using a perimeter to identify functional impairments indicative of glaucoma progression.
24-Hour IOP Monitoring: Developed by Prof. Mansouri, this method captures fluctuations in eye pressure over a full day, identifying peaks that standard daytime measurements might miss.
Eyemate® System (optional): An implantable sensor co-developed by Prof. Mansouri, the Eyemate® continuously monitors intraocular pressure and provides real-time data to support treatment decisions, particularly in advanced or unstable glaucoma.
Tonometry: Measures the pressure inside the eye, a critical factor in glaucoma assessment.
Gonioscopy: Evaluates the drainage angle of the eye to determine the type of glaucoma and guide treatment decisions.

Personalized Treatment Approaches

Treatment plans at ELZA are customized based on the type and severity of glaucoma, as well as individual patient factors:

1. Medications

First-line therapy often involves prescription eye drops aimed at lowering IOP by either reducing aqueous humor production or enhancing its outflow. Common classes include:

Prostaglandin analogs – increase fluid outflow
Beta-blockers – decrease fluid production
Alpha-adrenergic agonists – decrease production and increase outflow
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors – reduce fluid production
Rho kinase inhibitors – improve outflow through the trabecular meshwork

It’s crucial to adhere to the prescribed regimen, as consistent use is vital for efficacy.

2. Laser Therapies

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT): Enhances the eye’s natural drainage system, effectively lowering IOP. SLT is a repeatable, minimally invasive procedure suitable for open-angle glaucoma.
Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI): Creates a small opening in the iris to improve fluid flow in cases of angle-closure glaucoma.
Cyclophotocoagulation (CPC): Targets the ciliary body to reduce fluid production, used in advanced or refractory glaucoma cases.

3. Surgical Interventions

When medications and laser treatments are insufficient, surgical options are considered:

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): Procedures like the implantation of iStent inject® or Hydrus® Microstent improve fluid outflow with a favorable safety profile and quicker recovery times. These are often performed in combination with cataract surgery.
Preserflo® MicroShunt: A newer, less invasive filtration device implanted under the conjunctiva to divert fluid and sustainably lower IOP with minimal disruption to ocular anatomy.
Trabeculectomy: Involves creating a new drainage pathway in the sclera to lower IOP, typically reserved for advanced or progressive glaucoma.
Aqueous Shunt Implants (e.g., Ahmed or Baerveldt valves): Flexible drainage devices implanted to manage complex or refractory cases of glaucoma.
Deep Sclerectomy and Canaloplasty: Non-penetrating procedures that enhance natural drainage pathways. These offer good pressure control with reduced risk of complications compared to full-thickness surgeries.

Specialized Care for Different Glaucoma Types

Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Requires prompt treatment to prevent vision loss. Management may include medications, LPI, or lens extraction.
Secondary Glaucoma: Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause, alongside standard glaucoma therapies.
Congenital Glaucoma: Early surgical intervention is often necessary to correct developmental anomalies affecting fluid drainage.

Why Choose ELZA?

Expertise

Prof. Kaweh Mansouri brings extensive experience and innovation in glaucoma management, including pioneering 24-hour IOP monitoring and co-developing the Eyemate® implantable sensor.

Personalized Treatment

We develop individualized care plans, considering each patient's unique condition and lifestyle.

Advanced Technology

Our facility is equipped with the latest diagnostic and therapeutic tools, including high-resolution imaging and continuous pressure monitoring.

Integrated Services

From diagnosis to postoperative care, all services are provided under one roof, ensuring continuity and convenience.

Early detection and tailored treatment are key to preserving vision in glaucoma patients. Contact the ELZA Institute in Zurich to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with our glaucoma specialists.

Our Areas of Expertise

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Our Areas of Expertise

ELZA Dietikon

ELZA HB Zürich