AN OPERATIVE PROCEDURE FOR GLAUCOMA OF SHALLOW CHAMBER TYPE

Abstract

Primary glaucoma may, with few exceptions, be divided into two great anatomic types¹ according to the mechanical cause of the increased intraocular pressure. One type is characterized by a normal or deep chamber and an open iridic angle (fig. 1) in which the increased pressure is caused by blockage of the sclerocorneal trabeculum. A rational operation, "goniotomy,"² was suggested for its relief. The second type is characterized by a shallow chamber and a narrow angle and is produced by obstruction of the filtration angle by the root of the iris (fig. 2). An operative procedure for this type of glaucoma is here-with presented. This operation is equally adapted to the late stages in which adhesions have not formed and as a preventive or prophylactic operation in the early stages. It may also be employed with safety and without complicating sequelae in those cases in which the intraocular tension