MST Trabectome Glaucoma Surgery
MST Trabectome Glaucoma Surgery
Advanced Tissue-Removal MIGS for IOP Reduction | Westlake Eye Specialists
Glaucoma patients seeking alternatives to long-term medications or more invasive procedures now have access to MST Trabectome®—a proven minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) that removes part of the eye’s drainage tissue to restore healthy fluid outflow and reduce intraocular pressure (IOP).
At Westlake Eye Specialists, Harvard-trained glaucoma specialist Dr. Zarmeena Vendal, MD offers Trabectome as a safe and effective treatment for open-angle glaucoma, helping patients in Austin, Kyle, Killeen, and New Braunfels, TX, manage their condition while preserving long-term vision.
What Is the Trabectome?
The MST Trabectome is a device that performs electrocautery-based ablation of the trabecular meshwork, the primary source of resistance to aqueous fluid drainage in glaucoma. By removing this diseased tissue through a small incision, Trabectome improves the eye’s natural outflow system and helps lower IOP without the need for implants or shunts.
It is especially effective for patients with mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma and is often combined with cataract surgery for added benefit.
Key Benefits of MST Trabectome
- No stents or artificial implants
- Often combined with cataract surgery
- Minimal trauma to surrounding eye tissue
- May reduce or eliminate the need for glaucoma eye drops
- Short procedure with rapid recovery
- Covered by Medicare and most insurances when indicated
This technology is a valuable tool in our MIGS lineup for patients seeking safe and sustainable options for glaucoma control.
Who Is a Candidate for Trabectome?
Dr. Vendal may recommend Trabectome if you:
- Have mild to moderate primary open-angle glaucoma
- Are scheduled for cataract surgery, or want a standalone solution
- Want to reduce your use of glaucoma drops
- Prefer a non-implant, tissue-removal approach
- Have not responded well to medications or laser therapy
Patients with narrow angles, uveitic glaucoma, or advanced disease may require alternative procedures, which Dr. Vendal will discuss during your evaluation.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Trabectome surgery is typically done on an outpatient basis and takes less than 15 minutes.
- A small incision is made in the clear part of the eye (cornea)
- The Trabectome device is inserted and uses microelectrocautery to ablate a section of the trabecular meshwork
- Fluid flow is restored through the natural pathway into Schlemm’s canal
- The incision is self-sealing and requires no sutures
Trabectome spares major structures in the eye, making it a low-risk option with high success potential.
Recovery & Results
- Most patients resume normal activities in 1–2 days
- Mild temporary redness, irritation, or blurred vision is common
- IOP may begin to drop within the first week after surgery
- Pressure reduction is often significant and sustained
- Some patients are able to stop or reduce their glaucoma medications
Why Choose Dr. Zarmeena Vendal?
With her elite training at Harvard University and years of hands-on MIGS experience, Dr. Zarmeena Vendal is one of Central Texas’s leading glaucoma surgeons. She tailors each treatment plan based on your eye anatomy, disease stage, and personal preferences.
Westlake Eye Specialists offers:
- State-of-the-art glaucoma care for Austin, Kyle, Killeen, and New Braunfels
- A full range of in-office and surgical treatment options
- Advanced diagnostic tools to monitor optic nerve health
- A compassionate and highly experienced surgical team
Schedule Your Glaucoma Consultation
Are you a candidate for MST Trabectome or another MIGS solution? Don’t wait to get the expert care your eyes deserve.
Call Westlake Eye Specialists or book online to schedule your personalized consultation with Dr. Zarmeena Vendal, MD, and explore your options for safer, less invasive glaucoma surgery.