An eye operation to control intraocular pressure in a glaucoma patient was performed in Malta for the first time at St James Capua Hospital, Sliema. A glaucoma drainage device implant, also known as an Ahmed valve, was inserted in the patient’s eye, draining fluid and reducing the pressure that causes damage to the optic nerve.
Consultant ophthalmic surgeon Francis Carbonaro, who recently moved back to Malta after over 10 years studying and working in leading UK hospitals, performed this cutting-edge surgery.
This is welcome news to local glaucoma sufferers, as up until now, patients have had to travel overseas to receive this treatment.