The term "Aqueous Humor Shunt" refers to a surgical procedure that involves creating a pathway for fluid to drain from the eye in order to reduce intraocular pressure. The correct spelling of this term is represented using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA): /ˈeɪkwiəs ˈhjuːmər ʃʌnt/. The word "aqueous" is pronounced as "ay-kwee-uhs," while "humor" is pronounced as "hyoo-mer." Finally, "shunt" is pronounced as "shuhnt." Understanding the phonetic transcription of this term can aid in proper pronunciation and communication within the medical community.
An aqueous humor shunt, also known as a glaucoma drainage device or glaucoma implant, is a medical device used in the treatment of glaucoma. Glaucoma is an eye condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP), which can lead to optic nerve damage and vision loss if left untreated. The aqueous humor is a clear fluid that nourishes the eye and maintains its shape.
An aqueous humor shunt is a small tube-like device implanted into the eye to help regulate the drainage of aqueous humor, thus reducing the IOP. It consists of a flexible tube that is inserted into the front chamber of the eye, along with a small plate or reservoir that is placed under the conjunctiva (the clear thin tissue covering the white part of the eye). The device works by diverting the excess aqueous humor from the front chamber to a bleb, a small pocket created under the conjunctiva, where the fluid can be absorbed more easily.
By providing an alternative path for the aqueous humor to drain, the shunt helps maintain a normal eye pressure and prevents damage to the optic nerve. This can help slow down the progression of glaucoma and preserve the patient's vision. Aqueous humor shunts are typically recommended when other forms of glaucoma treatment, such as eye drops, laser therapy, or conventional surgery, are ineffective or contraindicated. The insertion and management of the shunt require the expertise of an ophthalmologist experienced in glaucoma surgery. Regular follow-up visits are necessary to monitor the IOP and to ensure the shunt is functioning correctly.