Trabeculectomy vs Tube Shunts in the Modern Era: Long-Term Safety and Durability
An important trial known as the Tube Versus Trabeculectomy (TVT) Study looked at patients who had already had cataract or glaucoma surgery that...
Baerveldt-implant
Deep research and expert guides on maintaining your visual health.
How's Your Peripheral Vision?
Blind spots often develop gradually without symptoms. Start a free trial and take a quick visual field test to spot changes early.
Find Out NowBaerveldt-implant
The Baerveldt implant is a type of drainage device used to lower eye pressure by channeling fluid from inside the eye to a plate placed under the outer tissue. Unlike some other implants, it does not have a built-in valve, so surgeons typically tie the tube temporarily or use other measures to prevent the pressure from dropping too low right after surgery. The plate is larger than many alternatives, which often gives a bigger surface area for fluid absorption and can result in stronger long-term pressure control. Because of that, it is commonly used for serious or advanced glaucoma that has not responded to drops or prior operations. The procedure and early healing require careful management, since early pressure control and scarring influence how well the implant performs later. Possible complications include low pressure, infection, scarring that reduces effectiveness, cataract development, or tube-related problems like exposure or blockage. Many patients experience sustained pressure reduction after the eye heals, but long-term success can be affected by tissue response around the plate. Choosing a Baerveldt involves balancing its potential for better long-term control against the need for careful postoperative care and follow-up.