Objective:

To improve visualization, accuracy, and patient safety in gonioscopy for glaucoma evaluation and surgical planning, emphasizing its critical role in managing glaucoma.

Key Findings:

• Only 49% of Medicare beneficiaries had documented gonioscopic exams before glaucoma surgeries, indicating a significant gap in practice.
• Indirect gonioscopy lenses are commonly used in clinics for angle visualization, while direct lenses are preferred in surgical settings for clearer images.

Interpretation:

Gonioscopy is underutilized despite its critical role in glaucoma management; understanding various lenses can enhance clinical practice and patient outcomes.

Limitations:

• The study references are dated, and current practices may vary, potentially affecting the relevance of findings.
• Some gonioscopy lenses may cause patient discomfort or complicate surgical maneuvers, which should be considered in practice.

Conclusion:

Ophthalmologists should prioritize gonioscopy in clinical evaluations and surgical planning to improve patient outcomes, addressing the current underutilization.