Obstruction of trabecular orifices in primary open - angle glaucoma

The morphologic and structural changes undergone by the trabecular meshwork have frequently been related to the development of primary open-angle glaucoma, which consists of a sustained increase in intraocular pressure due to the accumulation of aqueous humour in the anterior chamber of the eye. The aqueous humour leaves the anterior chamber of the eye, passing through the trabecular orifices to Schlemm's canal. Accordingly, the anatomic integrity of the trabecular meshwork is necessary to guarantee correct aqueous drainage and the maintenence of adequate intraocular pressure. In the present study, the three-dimensional morphology of glaucomatous trabecular meshworks was studied with a view to observing morphological changes possibly related to the development of primary open angle-glaucoma.