New GFD surgery for glaucoma treatment

CUTTACK: Treatment of glaucoma, a leading yet neglected cause of irreversible blindness in the population, has achieved a shot in the arm in the State with introduction of the latest Express Glaucoma Filtration Device (GFD) surgery for the people losing eyesight due to the condition.The first three procedures of GFD in the State have been conducted successfully by ophthalmic surgeon Dr Raja Agarwal of the Melvin Jones Lions Eye Hospital here.According to estimates, lakhs of people are blinded by glaucoma across the country every year. Prevalence of the disease or condition is considered to be more than 2 per cent of the population. In Orissa too, the incidence of glaucoma or kalamotiabindu as it is called locally is corresponding to the National estimates.Glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerves in the eye. People with high ocular pressure are at increased risk for developing glaucoma. It is often referred to as the silent thief of sight as it usually has no early symptoms. It can affect any age group and the blindness is irreversible. As most people report at a very advanced stages with acute loss of sight, treatment becomes very difficult.“But GFD implantation surgery has revolutionised glaucoma treatment and management. It is a valve implanted in the eye to release the fluids and reduce intraocular pressure. Thus, controlling and halting progression of damage to the nerves”, Dr Agarwal said.The three patients who have availed the most advanced surgery include a 24-year-old youth, a 60-year-old woman and a 56-year-old man. The GFD implant has a life span of over 50 years and thus people receiving it will require only one surgery unlike the conventional trabeculectomy which lasts between one and 10 years. “Trabeculectomy involves nerve bypass surgery and opening a hole to drain the fluid and reduce pressure. The hole can naturally close on its own sooner or later. GFD with its mechanical features rides over such problems,” Dr Agarwal explained.The ophthalmologist, who has served with the United Nations and the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, claims the GFD surgery is conducted at the lowest prices at the Melvins Eye Hospital. The surgery is available at a couple of places in the country. The surgery including the implant would cost not more than Rs 45,000 here while outside it may run into more than a lakh.