What is GATT or Canaloplasty?
GATT stands for gonioscopy assisted transluminar trabeculotomy. In this procedure, a small filament is inserted into the natural drainage canal of the eye and the canal is opened. Canaloplasty is performed by threading a small catheter in the drainage canal of the eye. The catheter is used to dilate and expand the drainage canal. Both procedures aim to increase flow into the natural drainage canal and decrease eye pressure.
How is the surgery performed?
A small incision, similar to one made during cataract surgery, is made in the cornea (the clear front part of the eye). A small incision is then made into the natural drainage canal. The filament or catheter is then inserted into the small incision and advanced into the canal. It may be advanced into a portion of the canal or into the entire canal (360 degrees). In canaloplasty, the drainage canal is then dilated when the catheter is removed. In GATT, the filament is used to open the canal. In both procedures, the device is then removed entirely from the eye.
Am I candidate for GATT or Canaloplasty?
GATT and Canaloplasty are approved for patient with refractory glaucoma, including patients with open angle, pseudoexofoliation, or pigmentary glaucoma. It is not for patients with closed angle glaucoma.
What are the risks of surgery?
As with all eye surgery, there is a risk of infection, bleeding, or decrease vision. The surgery may not adequately control eye pressure and medications or additional procedures may be required. There is a small risk that the pressures is too low after surgery, which may need additional medications or procedures to resolve