Schlemm’s canal outflow pathway

The Schlemm’s canal outflow pathway consists of the trabecular meshwork, Schlemm’s canal (a circular, endothelium-lined vessel at the corneoscleral junction), and associated collector channels that drain aqueous humor from the anterior chamber of the eye into the venous system[1][3][5]. This pathway is critical for the regulation of intraocular pressure and is the primary conventional drainage route for aqueous humor, accounting for up to 90% of outflow under normal conditions[2][5]. Dysfunction or increased resistance in this pathway, caused by anatomical changes or pathological remodeling, is central to the development of primary open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension[1][3][5]. Various drugs and surgical procedures target this pathway—with the aim of reducing outflow resistance and controlling intraocular pressure—to prevent glaucomatous optic nerve damage[2][4].

Other names

Canal of Schlemm pathwayconventional aqueous outflow pathwaytrabecular outflow pathwayconventional outflow tract

Enhance aqueous humor outflow through remodeling or dilating Schlemm’s canal and related structures. Reduce resistance at the trabecular meshwork and collector channels. Lower intraocular pressure by facilitating drainage from the anterior chamber.