DEFINITION
The Glaucoma Unit specializes in diagnosing and treating patients with all forms of primary and secondary glaucoma, suspected glaucoma, and those at risk of developing the disease.

CONDITIONS
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness after cataracts and the first cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. It is estimated that around 80 million people globally are currently affected by glaucoma, with over 8 million already bilaterally blind. Projections indicate that this number could reach approximately 112 million by 2040.

Despite these figures, the pathogenesis of glaucoma remains largely unclear, its diagnosis is often late and incidental, and available treatments can only partially stabilize or slow the progression of visual impairment. Early diagnosis is challenging due to the disease’s asymptomatic nature in its initial stages and the limitations of current diagnostic tools.

ACTIVITIES
Patients can access the clinic for initial eye examinations (booked through the centralized booking system - CUP) or follow-up visits (scheduled directly with the Bietti Foundation).

The ophthalmological examination includes:

• Visual Acuity Testing: For both distance and near vision
• Tonometry: Measurement of intraocular pressure using a Goldmann Applanation Tonometer
• Gonioscopy: Study of the iridocorneal angle
• Fundus Examination: Evaluation of the optic nerve head, macula, and retina

Diagnostic Services
The Glaucoma Unit also provides:

• Tonometric Curve Measurement: Intraocular pressure readings taken at two-hour intervals throughout the day (8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m.)
• Instrumental Tests:
  • Computerized Visual Field Test: To assess optic nerve function
  • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): For morphological analysis of optic nerve fibers
  • Pachymetry: Measurement of corneal thickness

Laser Treatments
The unit is equipped with a next-generation laser for performing:

• Laser Iridotomy: Indicated for narrow-angle glaucoma
• Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT): A para-surgical treatment for patients with inadequate pressure control despite medical therapy

Surgical Treatments
If necessary, patients may undergo surgical procedures at the Glaucoma Unit, including:

• Traditional Surgery: Trabeculectomy and implantation of drainage devices
• Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): Using the latest techniques
• Cyclophotocoagulation with Diode Laser: For advanced cases.