Glaucoma refers to any of a group of eye disorders that cause progressive damage to the optic nerve, which can lead to visual impairment and potentially irreversible blindness. Most cases of glaucoma involve the accumulation of fluid in the eye due to poor drainage, which builds pressure in the eye (known as intraocular pressure, or IOP), gradually damaging the optic nerve.
Glaucoma treatment often starts with prescription eye drops and may progress to oral medications, laser therapy, or minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, for early to moderate glaucoma. For moderate to severe (advanced) glaucoma, a procedure, such as minimally invasive bleb surgery (MIBS) or conventional/incisional glaucoma surgery (e.g., trabeculectomy), may be performed. In a MIBS procedure, eye pressure is reduced through the implantation of a device that creates a new pathway for eye fluid drainage (known as subconjunctival outflow).
This health technology assessment looked at how safe, effective, and cost-effective MIBS is for people with glaucoma. It also looked at the budget impact of publicly funding MIBS and at the experiences, preferences, and values of people with glaucoma.
Read the full health technology assessment report for more information.
Minimally Invasive Bleb Surgery for Glaucoma: A Health Technology Assessment
January 2024
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The Ministry of Health has provided the following response: The Ministry has a standardized process in place to review health technology assessments and funding recommendations. This takes into consideration Ministry priorities, implementation options, the need for consultation with impacted stakeholders, and funding considerations.