Progress and Perspectives in Surgical Management of Glaucoma

Glaucoma, notably a primary cause of irreversible blindness globally, systematically degrades the optic nerve, frequently propelled by heightened intraocular pressure. Initial interventions largely orbit around medical therapies and laser applications; however, the gravity of this condition often necessitates surgical strategies when these are inadequate for pressure management. Recent enhancements in surgical methods hold the promise of optimizing safety, efficacy, and durability in treating glaucoma, bringing fresh perspectives on potential improvements.

This Research Topic aims to probe into the emerging advancements and persistent challenges within the sphere of surgical interventions for glaucoma. Emphasis will be placed on scrutinizing novel surgical methodologies, refining existing techniques, and the frontiers of surgical technology which hold the potential to redefine therapeutic thresholds and outcomes. We are also interested in approaches for improving outcomes following glaucoma surgery, particularly addressing wound healing. The objective extends to incorporating evaluations of patient selection protocols, analyses of surgical results, postoperative management, and the economic aspects influencing surgical choices.

To gather further insights into the boundaries of this field, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Advances in minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)
• Comparative studies on traditional versus novel surgical techniques
• Long-term outcomes and safety of glaucoma surgeries
• Innovations in surgical devices and technologies, including laser surgery
• Wound healing modulations during and following glaucoma surgery
• Patient-centered approaches and quality of life post-surgery
• Challenges in surgical training and technique standardization

By concentrating on these aspects, the endeavor is to cultivate a deeper comprehension of surgical alternatives and advancements. It is envisioned that this collection of studies will inspire new theories and practices in the surgical treatment of glaucoma, thus improving patient care standards.

Topic Editor Shamira Perera has received honoraria from Alcon, Abbvie, Ivantis, Glaukos, Santen, and Leica. Topic Editor Andrew White has previously been an advisory board member for Glaukos and Alcon, has an investigator initiated trial with Abbvie/Allergan, and has a patent for a glaucoma drainage device (patent WO2021174298A). Topic Editor George Kong is the founder of and shareholder in GLANCE Optical Pty Ltd. All other Topic Editors declare no completing interests related to this Research Topic.

Keywords: glaucoma, surgery, MIGS, trabeculectomy, selective laser trabeculoplasty, laser peripheral iridotomy, wound healing, fibrosis, canaloplasty

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.