Gonioscopy (गोनियोस्कोपी)
Gonioscopy is a specialized diagnostic procedure used in ophthalmology to examine the anterior chamber angle of the eye, which is the area where the cornea and iris meet. This region is critical for the outflow of aqueous humor, the fluid inside the eye, which helps regulate intraocular pressure (IOP). Abnormalities in this angle can lead to conditions such as glaucoma, particularly angle-closure glaucoma.
Gonioscopy provides essential information about the health of the anterior chamber and is typically performed to assess the angle of the eye, determine the type of glaucoma, and evaluate other anterior segment disorders.Gonioscopy is a vital tool in the diagnosis and management of various ocular conditions, particularly glaucoma. By providing a detailed view of the anterior chamber angle
How Gonioscopy Works
Gonioscopy involves the use of a gonioscope, a special contact lens that is placed on the patient’s eye. The procedure provides a detailed view of the anterior chamber angle through a combination of light reflection and magnification.
- Preparation: The patient is seated comfortably, and topical anesthetic eye drops are applied to numb the eye.
- Lens Placement: A gonioscope, which is a lens with mirrors, is placed gently on the surface of the eye. The lens may contain a fluid or gel to improve contact and prevent discomfort.
- Angle Visualization: The ophthalmologist looks through a slit lamp microscope to examine the angle and assess its structure, including the trabecular meshwork, ciliary body, and Schwalbe’s line.
- Evaluation: Based on the appearance of the angle, the doctor can determine if there are signs of blockages, narrow angles, or other abnormalities that may predispose the patient to glaucoma.
- Gonioscope Lens: A lens with mirrors that provides a clear view of the anterior chamber angle.
- Slit Lamp: A high-powered microscope with a light source used to examine the eye in detail.
- Anesthetic Drops: Numbing drops that make the procedure comfortable by preventing discomfort during the test.
Glaucoma Diagnosis
- To evaluate the open-angle or closed-angle glaucoma types.
- To assess the drainage angle of the eye, which plays a crucial role in maintaining intraocular pressure.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
- Gonioscopy is essential in diagnosing this condition, which can lead to a sudden rise in eye pressure and vision loss if untreated.
Pre-Surgical Assessment
- Gonioscopy is often used before surgeries like laser iridotomy or trabeculectomy to evaluate the angle and the health of the anterior chamber.
Trauma
- To assess eye injuries, such as those involving the anterior chamber or angle structures.
Congenital Conditions
- Gonioscopy can help diagnose congenital abnormalities of the anterior chamber angle, such as anterior segment dysgenesis.