Glaucoma Surgery During Pregnancy - Summary - MDSpire

Glaucoma Surgery During Pregnancy

  • By

  • Jim Gallagher, senior managing editor

  • May 1, 2026

  • 4 min

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Objective:

To discuss the considerations and guidelines for performing glaucoma surgery in pregnant patients, emphasizing safety and risk management.

Key Findings:
  • Nonobstetric surgery occurs in up to 2% of pregnancies, with maternal outcomes comparable to nonpregnant patients.
  • Risks to the fetus during surgery are unclear and may stem from the surgery or the underlying condition.
  • Elective procedures should be postponed until after delivery, while medically necessary surgeries should not be delayed.
  • MIGS procedures may be preferable due to shorter surgical times and faster recovery, though data on their use during pregnancy is lacking.
Interpretation:

Surgery for glaucoma during pregnancy should be approached cautiously, with a preference for non-surgical management when possible, and careful planning and coordination among medical teams emphasized.

Limitations:
  • Lack of established guidelines and limited evidence from animal studies and case reports.
  • No published data on the use of MIGS during pregnancy, impacting clinical decision-making.
Conclusion:

Surgery is not the safest first option during pregnancy but can be performed with appropriate modifications and multidisciplinary coordination when necessary, stressing the importance of careful planning.

Original Source(s)

Glaucoma Surgery During Pregnancy

  • by Jim Gallagher, senior managing editor

  • May 1, 2026

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