Our glaucoma specialists provide comprehensive, team-based care for patients with all forms of glaucoma. We offer advanced medical, laser, and surgical treatments — from early intervention to complex cases — focused on preserving vision and improving quality of life.
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Meet Our Providers
Clinical Care
We provide a broad range of glaucoma care for both adult and pediatric patients, including medical management, laser therapy, and surgical intervention. Care is delivered through a coordinated team that includes glaucoma specialists, glaucoma‑trained optometrists, and comprehensive ophthalmologists, allowing patients to be evaluated and treated across subspecialties throughout the course of their condition.
Innovations in Treatment
The treatment of glaucoma has evolved substantially in recent years, and our clinical practice reflects these advances.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery has expanded surgical options for patients by offering effective intraocular pressure control with a lower risk profile than traditional glaucoma surgeries. MIGS procedures often reduce dependence on topical medications and can frequently be performed at the time of cataract surgery, minimizing additional surgical burden.
Shifting the Treatment Paradigm
Glaucoma management is increasingly moving away from eye drops as first‑line therapy toward earlier use of laser treatment. This approach allows many patients to remain off medications for longer periods, improving quality of life and reducing issues related to medication side effects, cost, adherence, and access. This strategy is particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty administering drops due to physical limitations such as arthritis or neurologic disease.
Advanced and Complex Case Management
Our service is a regional referral center for complex glaucoma. We routinely care for patients with advanced disease, prior failed surgeries, or complications from previous interventions. This includes patients requiring artificial cornea (keratoprosthesis)–associated glaucoma management and those seeking second or third opinions. The depth of subspecialty expertise across our department enables coordinated care for the most challenging cases.
Research
Research is a core component of the Glaucoma Service, spanning clinical trials, translational studies, and basic science investigations aimed at improving long‑term outcomes for patients.
Clinical and Translational Research
We participate in multi‑center clinical trials focused on optimizing glaucoma care, including the COAST Trial, which examines best practices for the use of laser therapy in glaucoma management. We are also involved in other clinical studies that are part of the Women’s Health Initiative, which evaluates the relationship between diet, lifestyle factors, and glaucoma risk.
Biobank and Future Discovery
In collaboration with our research labs, our team contributes to a biobank collection program. Surgical specimens are collected with patient consent and preserved for future research, supporting ongoing and emerging investigations into glaucoma pathophysiology and treatment.
Basic Science Research
Our faculty are engaged in foundational research aimed at advancing understanding of glaucoma mechanisms and identifying new therapeutic targets. As projects evolve, this page will continue to link learners and collaborators to active research efforts that directly impact our treatment practices.
Education
Education is central to our mission, with robust training opportunities for fellows, residents, and learners at multiple levels.
Glaucoma Fellowship
Our fellowship program provides advanced training in both traditional glaucoma surgery and minimally invasive techniques. Fellows gain extensive clinical and surgical experience, preparing them for academic careers or high‑volume clinical practice. Graduates go on to serve patients throughout Wisconsin and beyond.
Resident Education
Residents receive comprehensive training in medical, laser, and surgical glaucoma management. Emphasis is placed on progressive responsibility, clinical reasoning, and exposure to complex cases within a supportive learning environment.
Global Ophthalmology
Our educational mission extends beyond the local setting. Alumni of the glaucoma service have participated in global ophthalmology efforts, including work at Shroff Charity Hospital, reflecting our commitment to broad, socially responsive training.
Referral and Professional Resources
Referring Providers
We welcome referrals for patients requiring glaucoma consultation, advanced surgical management, or co‑management of complex disease. Our service frequently evaluates patients referred for second or third opinions following unsuccessful treatment elsewhere.
Patient Education and Professional Information
We direct patients, families, and providers to high‑quality educational resources, including materials from the American Glaucoma Society and the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Information about active clinical trials and research participation is also available through UW Health for active patients.
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