Treatment Overview
Goniotomy with Kahook Dual Blade in Korea is a state-of-the-art Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) procedure that removes a precise strip of the trabecular meshwork (TM) to enhance natural aqueous humor outflow through Schlemm’s canal. Unlike conventional goniotomy tools, the KDB features two parallel blades and a glide ramp designed to lift, engage, and excise TM tissue cleanly, reducing resistance and improving canal access.
Korean ophthalmology centers enhance KDB outcomes using OCT-guided angle imaging, AI-assisted outflow prediction, 3D gonioscopy, micro-incision entry systems, and real-time surgical tracking, ensuring superior precision, minimal trauma, rapid recovery, and consistent long-term intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Remove diseased trabecular meshwork tissue to open Schlemm’s canal.
- Lower intraocular pressure in open-angle glaucoma.
- Improve natural aqueous outflow without implants or external filtration.
- Provide a safer alternative to traditional glaucoma surgeries.
Benefits
- Dual-Blade Precision: The KDB removes tissue cleanly, reducing scarring and improving flow.
- Low Trauma: No thermal energy; minimal bleeding and inflammation.
- Strong IOP Reduction: Effective for mild to moderate glaucoma.
- Fast Recovery: Small incision and gentle tissue handling.
- Medication Reduction: Many patients reduce or stop glaucoma eye drops.
- Implant-Free MIGS: No foreign body left in the eye.
Ideal Candidates
KDB Goniotomy in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma.
- Individuals wanting an implant-free MIGS option.
- Patients undergoing combined cataract + MIGS surgery.
- Individuals intolerant to medications or not achieving adequate IOP control.
- Patients with healthy corneal clarity and accessible angle anatomy.
- Early glaucoma patients seeking long-term, controlled outflow improvement.
Possible Risks & Complications
KDB goniotomy is extremely safe, but mild postoperative effects may include:
- Small hyphema (blood reflux, typically short-lived)
- Transient inflammation
- Temporary blurry vision
- Mild irritation or redness
- Rare localized scarring at the incision site
Korean surgeons minimize these risks using AI-calibrated incision mapping, angle OCT guidance, micro-incision techniques, and precise gonioviewer imaging.
Surgical Techniques
AI-Based Outflow Mapping
Identifies optimal segments of trabecular meshwork to excise for maximal flow improvement.
Micro-Incision Access
A tiny 1.8–2.0 mm corneal incision allows entry for the KDB instrument.
KDB Dual-Blade Excision
The blade’s unique ramp lifts the TM and the dual blades excise it cleanly in a controlled strip.
Schlemm’s Canal Enhancement
The removal of TM tissue exposes collector channels for improved drainage.
OCT-Guided Verification
Allows surgeons to confirm precise excision depth and angle alignment.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step-by-Step Workflow
Step 1 – Glaucoma Evaluation
Includes OCT, IOP measurement, gonioscopy, and AI-based trabecular resistance analysis.
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
Surgeons select the ideal TM segment and incision length.
Step 3 – Micro-Incision Entry
A small corneal incision is made for instrument access.
Step 4 – KDB Goniotomy
The Kahook Dual Blade excises a strip of trabecular meshwork to open Schlemm’s canal.
Step 5 – Postoperative Care
Regular follow-up checks confirm optimal canal patency and IOP stabilization.
Treatment Duration: 5–10 minutes per eye
Setting: Outpatient, same-day surgery
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops for 1–2 weeks.
- Avoid rubbing the eye, swimming, or strenuous activity for several days.
- Wear protective sunglasses outdoors.
- Continue or taper glaucoma medications as instructed.
- Attend postoperative visits at Day 1, Week 1, and Month 1.
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3: Mild discomfort or redness; early IOP reduction begins.
Week 1: Clearer vision and stable IOP.
Weeks 2–4: Strong drainage improvement and possible medication reduction.
1–3 Months: Full stabilization of canal outflow and long-term IOP control.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Effective lowering of intraocular pressure.
- Enhanced outflow via Schlemm’s canal and collector channels.
- Reduced dependence on glaucoma medications.
- Quick recovery with minimal discomfort.
Longevity
- Results typically last years, especially in early-to-moderate glaucoma.
- Clean excision reduces scarring, improving long-term patency.
- Repeat procedures or additional MIGS can enhance durability if needed.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Expert MIGS Surgeons: Korean specialists excel in goniotomy procedures including KDB.
- Advanced Imaging Technology: OCT-guided angle mapping for optimal incision accuracy.
- AI-Enhanced Surgical Planning: Predicts ideal TM removal segments for maximum benefit.
- Minimally Invasive Protocols: Small incisions, fast healing, and high patient comfort.
- Outstanding Outcomes: High IOP reduction success and excellent recovery rates.
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-driven TM excision pattern analysis.
- High-resolution angle OCT for real-time surgical guidance.
- Dual-blade glide optimization for smoother TM tissue removal.
- Hybrid MIGS strategies (KDB + canaloplasty / KDB + laser trabeculoplasty).
- Long-term IOP tracking using deep-learning glaucoma progression tools.
These advancements make Kahook Dual Blade Goniotomy in Korea one of the most effective, precise, and minimally traumatic MIGS options available for early to moderate open-angle glaucoma.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard KDB Goniotomy | ₩1,000,000 – ₩1,600,000 | ~$750 – $1,200 | KDB excision with basic imaging and follow-up |
| Premium OCT-Guided KDB Package | ₩1,800,000 – ₩2,800,000 | ~$1,350 – $2,100 | AI planning, OCT targeting, extended postoperative monitoring |
| Hybrid MIGS Goniotomy Program | ₩3,500,000 – ₩5,000,000+ | ~$2,600 – $3,800+ | KDB + complementary MIGS (canaloplasty, laser, etc.) |
Costs vary based on equipment level, surgeon experience, and combined procedures.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul): Specialized in advanced MIGS including KDB goniotomy.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul): Known for OCT-guided angle surgeries and precise tissue work.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan): Experts in hybrid MIGS incorporating KDB.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic: Focuses on minimally traumatic TM removal with fast recovery.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam): Leaders in AI-based glaucoma surgical optimization.
