In laser surgery, called laser trabeculoplasty, a laser burns tiny holes in the drainage area and forms a scar, resulting in increased drainage of fluid from the eye. The procedure is short, includes little discomfort, and generally has few complications. But the laser surgery oftentimes is not a complete cure, and patients need to continue their use of medications and eye drops following the procedure.

Complications: In about 35% of patients, there is an actual increase in fluid pressure in the eye following laser surgery. While this typically subsides, in some cases it is permanent and leads to vision loss. Laser surgery can also cause complications that cause the iris to stick to the cornea.

In filtration surgery, called a Trabeculectomy, a flap is made in the eyeball to create passage for fluid to drain out. The surgery may include removal or part of the iris though this is not required. A small bleb or bubble generally forms near the opening in the eye, which is a sign that fluid is draining out.

Complications: While this procedure is normally highly effective, there are common complications associated with it. Blebs, especially thin ones created by mediocre surgery, commonly leak and put patients at risk of infection of the eye, bleeding, flattening of the eye, and dangerous inflammation. Filtration surgery may also cause significant scarring that blocks up drainage in the eye and leads to increased pressure again. Complications or problems from either leaking blebs or scarring can require additional surgical intervention, a great deal of pain, and eventually loss of eyesight.

Here are some of the possible complications in healing that can result after having eye surgery...

It is your health care provider's responsibility to make sure you fully understand any risks associated with your surgery and to help you make an informed decision about whether the benefits outweigh the potential risks. If a patient is not advised of the risks associated with a procedure, they are not able to make in informed decision.

If a child is the injured party, or was legally emancipated at the time of the injury, or the injury occurred at birth, there are different time frames for filing a lawsuit (see article for more detail.)

New Jersey Medical Malpractice Lawsuits

• What is the statute of limitation for filing a medical malpractice lawsuits in New Jersey?

• What is an Affidavit of Merit? Do I have to have one to file a malpractice lawsuit in New Jersey?

Pennsylvania Medical Malpractice Lawsuits

• What is the statute of limitation for filing a medical malpractice lawsuits in Pennsylvania?

• What is a Certificate of Merit? Do I have to have one to file a malpractice lawsuit in Pennsylvania?