Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

What surgical treatment is typically used in cases of angle closure glaucoma?

1. Laser peripheral iridoplasty

2. Iridectomy

3. Cataract extraction

4. Pupilloplasty

The correct answer is: Iridectomy

In cases of angle closure glaucoma, the surgical treatment that is most commonly employed is iridectomy. This procedure involves the surgical removal of a small section of the peripheral iris, which helps to create a new pathway for aqueous humor to flow from the posterior to the anterior chamber of the eye. By doing this, it alleviates the intraocular pressure that has built up due to the angle closure, thereby relieving the symptoms and preventing damage to the optic nerve. Iridectomy is particularly effective in emergency situations where rapid IOP reduction is necessary to preserve vision and prevent further complications. The procedure not only improves the aqueous flow but can also minimize the risk of future attacks of angle closure, making it a definitive approach for patients experiencing this type of glaucoma. While laser peripheral iridoplasty is also an option, it is primarily used in cases where the angle closure is due to a more chronic condition or when the patient has not responded to medical management. Cataract extraction may be beneficial in some scenarios if a cataract is contributing to the angle closure, but it is not the first-line surgical treatment specifically for angle closure. Pupilloplasty, on the other hand, is more relevant in procedures addressing pupillary shape and is not a standard treatment for