An eye operation designed to control the intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients has recently been performed for the first time in Malta at Saint James Capua Hospital.

Consultant ophthalmic surgeon Francis Carbonaro performed the cutting edge surgery.

Mr Carbonaro has recently returned to Malta after more than 10 years studying and working in leading hospitals around the UK.

This glaucoma drainage device implant, also known as an Ahmed valve, was inserted into a patient’s eye, draining the fluid and reducing the pressure which causes damage to the optic nerve.

Up to now, glaucoma sufferers had to travel overseas for this treatment.

Glaucoma is a common and chronic, progressive disease of the eye, which irreversibly damages the optic nerve, potentially leading to loss of vision. It is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide.