Combining Cataract Surgery with iStent Glaucoma Treatment: What McKinney Patients Should Know About Micro-Invasive Procedures

Cataracts and glaucoma are separate eye conditions, but many adults experience both at the same time. Cataracts cloud the eye's natural lens and interfere with clear vision, while glaucoma can damage the optic nerve, often in connection with elevated eye pressure. For certain patients in McKinney, cataract surgery may provide an opportunity to address both concerns during the same procedure.

At Texas Vision & Laser Center, we can evaluate whether combining cataract surgery with iStent glaucoma treatment may be appropriate based on your eye health, glaucoma diagnosis, and treatment needs.

How Cataract Surgery and iStent Work Together

During cataract surgery, the cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with an intraocular lens, or IOL. If a patient also has mild to moderate primary open-angle glaucoma, an iStent may be placed during the cataract procedure.

iStent is considered a form of micro-invasive glaucoma surgery, commonly called MIGS. The tiny device is designed to improve the eye's natural drainage pathway, helping aqueous fluid leave the eye more efficiently and reducing intraocular pressure. Because the iStent can be implanted during cataract surgery, eligible patients may be able to address their cataract and glaucoma without requiring a separate glaucoma procedure.

Potential Benefits of Combining Treatment

For the right candidate, combining cataract surgery with iStent may offer several potential advantages:

•          Treats the cataract and helps manage glaucoma during one surgical session

•          Improves the eye's natural fluid drainage

•          May help lower intraocular pressure

•          May reduce dependence on glaucoma eye drops for some patients

•          Uses a micro-invasive approach with minimal additional disruption to the eye

Who May Be A Candidate For iStent?

iStent is not appropriate for every patient with glaucoma. It is generally intended for adults with mild to moderate primary open-angle glaucoma who are already undergoing cataract surgery.

Before recommending treatment, we perform a detailed evaluation of the eye, including the drainage angle, optic nerve, eye pressure, current glaucoma medications, and overall stage of the disease. Patients with other forms of glaucoma or more advanced disease may require a different approach.

Explore Cataract and Glaucoma Treatment In McKinney

If cataracts are affecting your vision and you are also managing glaucoma, it may be worth discussing whether a combined procedure is appropriate for your eyes. Our team can review your diagnosis, explain your surgical options, and help you understand what to expect before and after treatment.

Schedule a cataract and glaucoma evaluation with Texas Vision & Laser Center to learn whether cataract surgery with iStent may be right for you. Contact our offices in Frisco or McKinney, TX, by calling (972) 548-2015 to book an appointment.