Surgical outcomes of uveitic glaucoma

Effectiveness and Safety of Trabeculectomy Versus Tube Shunt Implantation for Uveitic Glaucoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of trabeculectomy compared to glaucoma drainage devices (GDDs) in managing uveitic glaucoma (UG).

DESIGN

Systematic review METHODS: : We searched seven electronic databases [PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and Google Scholar] to compare trabeculectomy with various GDDs in UG. The primary outcome was intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction, and secondary outcomes included postoperative complications. We fitted a random effects model for meta-analysis and assessed the risk of bias using the National Institute of Health quality assessment tool.

RESULTS

We included eight studies; 197 eyes underwent trabeculectomy, and 277 eyes had GDDs. The mean age of participants was 48.5 years, with ∼53.5% being male in the trabeculectomy group, and 49.3% in the GDDs group. The meta-analysis revealed no significant difference in IOP reduction between trabeculectomy and GDDs (p=0.48). Subgroup analyses revealed no significant difference in IOP reduction between trabeculectomy and either the Ahmed glaucoma drainage device group (p =0.38) or the Baerveldt glaucoma implant group (p =0.90). GDDs were associated with higher rates of complications such as cystoid macular edema (CME) (15% vs. 4%, p<0.001), need for revision surgery (11% vs. 6%, P =0.04), and uveitic flare (5% vs. 0%, p =0.001). However, trabeculectomy had a higher risk of cataract progression (7% vs. 1%, p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Trabeculectomy and GDDs demonstrated comparable effectiveness in reducing IOP or glaucoma medication reduction in UG. However, there are significant differences in their safety profiles; CME and revisions were higher in GDD, and cataract progression was higher after trabeculectomy.

Increasing the diagnostic yield of childhood glaucoma cases recruited into the 100,000 Genomes Project

Childhood glaucoma (CG) encompasses a heterogeneous group of genetic eye disorders that is responsible for approximately 5% of childhood blindness worldwide. Understanding the molecular aetiology is key to improving diagnosis, prognosis and unlocking the potential for optimising clinical management. In this study, we investigated 86 CG cases from 78 unrelated families of diverse ethnic backgrounds, recruited into the Genomics England 100,000 Genomes Project (GE100KGP) rare disease cohort, to improve the genetic diagnostic yield. Using the Genomics England/Genomic Medicine Centres (GE/GMC) diagnostic pipeline, 13 unrelated families were solved (13/78, 17%). Further interrogation using an expanded gene panel yielded a molecular diagnosis in 7 more unrelated families (7/78, 9%). This analysis effectively raises the total number of solved CG families in the GE100KGP to 26% (20/78 families). Twenty-five percent (5/20) of the solved families had primary congenital glaucoma (PCG), while 75% (15/20) had secondary CG; 53% of this group had non-acquired ocular anomalies (including iris hypoplasia, megalocornea, ectopia pupillae, retinal dystrophy, and refractive errors) and 47% had non-acquired systemic diseases such as cardiac abnormalities, hearing impairment, and developmental delay. CYP1B1 was the most frequently implicated gene, accounting for 55% (11/20) of the solved families. We identified two novel likely pathogenic variants in the TEK gene, in addition to one novel pathogenic copy number variant (CNV) in FOXC1. Variants that passed undetected in the GE100KGP diagnostic pipeline were likely due to limitations of the tiering process, the use of smaller gene panels during analysis, and the prioritisation of coding SNVs and indels over larger structural variants, CNVs, and non-coding variants.

Prevalence and clinical characteristics of uveitic glaucoma: multicentric study in Bogotá, Colombia

OBJECTIVES

To describe the clinical features of patients diagnosed with uveitic glaucoma (UG) and ocular hypertension secondary to uveitis (OHT-SU).

METHODS

A multicentric cross-sectional study using medical records of patients with uveitis between 2013 and 2021. Uveitis and glaucoma specialists examined all patients. Variables were analyzed using the chi-square or Fisher's exact test for categorical variables. Additionally, t test, Mann-Whitney, and Kruskal-Wallis variance analysis were used for continuous variables. Finally, a Kaplan-Meier survival analysis for UG and OHT-SU development over time was done.

RESULTS

Of the 660 clinical records reviewed of patients with uveitis, 191 (28.9%) had OHT-SU in at least one visit, and 108 (16.4%) of them developed UG. In all ages, females were more affected than males. Anterior uveitis was the main anatomic localisation, and non-granulomatous, recurrent, and inactive uveitis were the most frequent clinical features. The mean final visual acuity was 0.3 (0.0-1.0) LogMAR. Also, 95.8% of the patients had additional sequelae related to uveitis regardless of UG and OHT-SU. Interestingly, males had earlier affection, with statistical significance in OHT for adults (P = 0.036) and UG for children (P = 0.04). Of all patients, 81.1% received topical hypotensive treatment and 29.8% required a surgical procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

UG and OHT-SU are common complications of uveitis in the Colombian population. These sight-threatening conditions were more common and appeared sooner in men at any age. Our results suggest that earlier and more aggressive treatment with topical hypotensive agents could positively influence the visual outcomes and the requirement of surgical procedures.

Effect of a Pericardium Graft Inserted Adjacent to the Endplate in the Ahmed Glaucoma Valve Implantation

The surface area of encapsulation around the Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) endplate is a critical factor in the surgical outcome as it is associated with the degree of IOP reduction. We investigated the surgical outcome of AGV implantation with an additional pericardium graft inserted adjacent to the endplate, with the intent of expanding the surface area of encapsulation. We enrolled 92 patients (92 eyes) who underwent AGV implantation. Of them, 50 patients underwent conventional surgery (termed the without-expansion group), and 42 received an additional an 8 × 6 mm pericardium graft inserted adjacent to the AGV endplate at the sub-Tenon's space (with-expansion). The hypertensive phase was classified as mild (>21 mmHg), moderate (>25 mmHg), and severe (>30 mmHg). Six months post-surgery, the with-expansion group exhibited a lower IOP (14.90 ± 4.27 mmHg) and lower peak IOP (22.29 ± 4.95 mmHg) than the without-expansion group (17.56 ± 4.88 mmHg and 25.06 ± 6.18 mmHg, p = 0.008 and p = 0.021, respectively). The with-expansion group exhibited a relatively low rate of moderate (16.7%) and severe (4.8%) hypertensive phases compared to the without-expansion group (40.0% and 20.0%, with p = 0.014 and p = 0.031, respectively). The additional pericardium graft was associated with a reduced occurrence of moderate hypertensive phase in both univariate and multivariate analysis logistic regression analyses (p = 0.017 and p = 0.038, respectively). Endplate surface area expansion using an additional pericardium graft reduced the occurrence of moderate and severe hypertensive phases, and lower postoperative 6-month IOP could be achieved.

Early Postoperative Effect of Ripasudil Hydrochloride After Trabeculectomy on Secondary Glaucoma: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Purpose:

To evaluate the effect of Rho-associated kinase inhibitor (ripasudil hydrochloride hydrate; ripasudil) eye drops on postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) after trabeculectomy in eyes with uveitic glaucoma.

Design:

This was a prospective, observational, controlled, and randomized study.

Methods:

Sixteen eyes of 16 patients with uveitic glaucoma who underwent trabeculectomy without mitomycin C were randomly treated without ripasudil (8 eyes) and with ripasudil (8 eyes). Postoperative IOP and surgical outcomes 3 months after surgery were compared between the two groups.

Results:

No patient discontinued treatment due to the lack of efficacy or adverse effects of ripasudil during the 3-month study period in the ripasudil group. The mean IOP (mmHg) in the control and ripasudil groups were 42.5 ± 9.8 mmHg /43.9 ± 11.7 mmHg (p = 0.82) at baseline, 14.3 ± 4.9 mmHg /9.0 ± 3.7 mmHg (p = 0.04) at 1 week, 16.3 ± 4.2 mmHg /10.6 ± 3.0 mmHg (p = 0.01) at 1 month, and 16.0 ± 3.4 mmHg /12.5 ± 2.3 mmHg (p = 0.04) at 3 months. The number of laser suture lysis procedures (2.0 ± 0.5 vs 0.4 ± 0.7), the rate of bleb revision by needling (50.0% vs 0.0%), and the mean number of antiglaucoma medications (1.6 ± 1.5 vs. 0.1 ± 0.3) after trabeculectomy were higher in the control group than in the ripasudil group (all p < 0.05). A multivariate analysis showed that the IOP reduction rate at 3 months after surgery was associated with the use of ripasudil and baseline IOP (all p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated the therapeutic efficacy, safety, and tolerability of ripasudil for 3 months postoperatively. Ripasudil may effectively reduce postoperative IOP and increase the success rate of trabeculectomy in patients with uveitic glaucoma.

Comparison of Surgical Outcomes between Trabeculectomy with Mitomycin C and Ahmed Valve Implantation with Mitomycin C in Eyes with Uveitic Glaucoma

We compared 1-year outcomes of trabeculectomy with mitomycin C (MMC) and Ahmed valve implantation with MMC as a first surgical procedure in patients with uveitic glaucoma. A total 38 eyes of 38 patients undergoing trabeculectomy (n =16) or Ahmed valve implantation (n = 22) were included. Surgical success was defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) ≤21 mmHg, IOP reduction ≥20% from baseline, no secondary glaucoma surgery, and no loss of light perception. The main outcome measurements including success rate, IOP, and the number of antiglaucoma medications and complications were compared. The overall success rates were comparable between the Ahmed and trabeculectomy groups (81.3 vs. 81.8%, p = 0.987). The mean IOPs were similar as well (p = 0.084), though the number of antiglaucoma medications was significantly lower in the trabeculectomy group than in the Ahmed group (1.0 ± 1.2 vs. 2.2 ± 1.1; p = 0.005). A statistically significant reduction in corneal endothelial cell density was noted in the Ahmed group (p = 0.004). Both treatments offered reasonable IOP control and safety for eyes with uveitic glaucoma. However, significantly fewer antiglaucoma medications were used in the trabeculectomy group. Furthermore, our results suggest that cautious postoperative monitoring with regard to corneal endothelial cell density should be additionally performed after Ahmed valve implantation.

Efficacy comparison of combined trabeculectomy with MMC and gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy of gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy combined with cataract surgery (PGATT) and trabeculectomy combined with cataract surgery (PTRAB) in open-angle glaucoma patients.

METHODS

A multi-centered, retrospective, non-randomized study included 67 PGATT patients and 70 PTRAB patients. We compared preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) compared with early and final IOP, medication numbers, and BCVA levels. Success was determined as IOP reduction > 20% from baseline, IOP between 5 and 21 mmHg, preoperative IOP of higher than 21 mmHg with medication and postoperative IOP of less than 21 mmHg without medication for surgeries performed for intolerance to medication, postoperative IOP < 21 mmHg as well as < 18 mmHg separately without medications, and no need for further glaucoma surgery.

RESULTS

Preoperative IOP values were 28.61 ± 6.02 mmHg in PTRAB group and 23.99 ± 8.00 mmHg in PGATT group (P < 0.0001). Early postoperative IOP values were found lower in PTRAB group as 12.19 ± 3.41 mmHg and as 15.69 ± 4.67 mmHg in PGATT group (P < 0.0001). Last follow-up IOP reading were lower in PGATT group (P = 0.009). IOP difference values were found higher both in early and last postoperative periods in PTRAB group (respectively, P < 0.0001, P = 0.018). Success rates were found higher in both at lower than 21 and 18 mmHg levels in PGATT group (respectively, P = 0.014, P = 0.010).

CONCLUSION

We found the PGATT combined procedure to be a well-tolerated, effective procedure that can lower IOP both early and late in the postoperative period with different rates of IOP success compared with the combined PTRAB procedure.

A comparison of long-term results after Baerveldt 250 implantation in advanced uveitic vs. other forms of glaucoma

INTRODUCTION

Uveitic glaucoma remains challenging despite medical and surgical advancements and can potentially lead to blindness if left uncontrolled. Conservative alternatives as well as microinvasive surgeries can postpone the necessity of a highly invasive intervention. However, such procedures are still necessary to treat some refractive glaucoma cases. Since previous studies have reported excellent results following the primary implantation of glaucoma drainage devices, it was our study's aim to evaluate long-term results following a Baerveldt 250 implantation in highly complex and surgically burdened uveitic glaucoma eyes (UG) and compare these to a similar population suffering from other forms of glaucoma (OFG).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of all eyes (UG vs. OFG) following a Baerveldt 250 implant between 2013 and 2019. Efficacy parameters as well as post-operative complication data were extracted from our electronic data system for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 62 eyes were included in our study (24 UG and 38 OFG). UG baseline mean IOP was 35.04 mmHg (± 11.85 mmHg) with 3.08 (± 1.13) topical agents, and OFG was 32.63 mmHg (± 7.74 mmHg) with 2.68 (± 1.28) topical agents. A majority of eyes also required systemic acetazolamide (UG: 79% OFG: 87%) and had undergone at least one glaucoma-related operation prior to the Baerveldt 250 implant ((UG: 1.21 (± 0.66)), OFG: 1.74 (± 1.33)). At the median follow-up period (UG 592, OFG 764 days), 52.5%/32.5% of UG/OFG cases showed qualified success (IOP below 21 mmHg with either topical or/and systemic medication), 15%/30% no longer required topical medication, and 47.5% /47.5% were free of acetazolamide systemically. Moreover, 75%/72.5% of eyes experienced no further pressure-related surgical event. Although sight-threatening complications such as corneal and macular edema were reported in both groups, most either maintained or improved their visual acuity at the last follow-up (58.33%/57.89%).

CONCLUSION

The Baerveldt 250 implant is shown to be both effective and safe for advanced glaucoma cases in uveitis and other forms. No further glaucoma-related surgery is required in the majority of eyes in either group within a follow-up period of almost 2 years. Despite sight-threatening complications such as macular and corneal edema, visual acuity can be either maintained or improved in most eyes.

Long-term outcomes of initial trabeculectomy in glaucoma associated with granulomatous and non-granulomatous uveitis

PURPOSE

To evaluate the outcomes of initial trabeculectomy in granulomatous and non-granulomatous uveitis.

METHODS

Retrospective comparative study of 68 eyes that underwent an initial trabeculectomy.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 74.18 and 74.86 months in both groups (p = 0.95). The intraocular pressure decreased from 40.03 mmHg ( ± 7.2) and 36.48 mmHg ( ± 11.3) to 14.00 mmHg ( ± 6.2) and 13.48 mmHg ( ± 5.7), the number of medications decreased from 3.73 ( ± 0.7) and 3.58 ( ± 0.9) to 1.00 ( ± 1.4) and 1.13 ( ± 1.4) on the last follow-up (p < 0.01) in the granulomatous and non-granulomatous groups, respectively. More eyes in the granulomatous uveitis group developed delayed postoperative complications like cataract, transient hypotony and glaucoma progression. Success rates were 64.9 and 71.0%, while failure rates were 35.1 and 29.0% in both groups (p = 0.84).

CONCLUSIONS

Trabeculectomy seems to have comparable IOP control and survival in granulomatous and non-granulomatous uveitis. Nevertheless, more eyes in the granulomatous uveitis group developed late-onset complications.

Results of modified CO2 laser-assisted sclerectomy monotherapy versus trabeculectomy combination therapy in the eyes with uveitic glaucoma

This study compared the efficacy of modified CO₂ laser-assisted sclerectomy surgery (CLASS) with combined CLASS and trabeculectomy (CLASS-TRAB) in patients with uveitic glaucoma (UG). UG patients who underwent CLASS-TRAB between August 2015 and April 2019 were retrospectively compared with a control group who underwent a modified CLASS standalone procedure during the same period. Visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), use of supplemental medical therapy and postoperative complications were recorded at baseline, 1 week, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months. Forty patients (40 eyes) were enrolled, and each group had 20 patients (20 eyes). The age and sex distribution were matched between groups (P > 0.05). Both the preoperative IOP (CLASS: 34.9 ± 9.3 mmHg, CLASS-TRAB: 36.8 ± 8.7 mmHg; P > 0.05) and number of glaucoma medications (CLASS: 3.3 ± 0.4, CLASS-TRAB: 3.5 ± 0.5; P > 0.05) were relatively higher in the CLASS-TRAB group than in the CLASS group. At the final follow-up, the IOP (CLASS: 12.9 ± 3.4 mmHg, CLASS-TRAB: 11.2 ± 2.5 mmHg) and number of glaucoma medications (CLASS: 0.4 ± 0.7 and CLASS-TRAB: 0.2 ± 0.5) significantly decreased in both groups (P < 0.01). Both the complete success rate and qualified success rate were comparable between the two groups (CLASS versus CLASS-TRAB: 55% versus 80%, P = 0.09; 80% versus 95%, P = 0.34). CLASS-TRAB is as efficient as modified CLASS in terms of the IOP-lowering effect, providing a new option for patients with UG that is severe and ineligible for other treatments.

Monitoring and Treatment of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis-associated Uveitis: Brazilian Evidence-based Practice Guidelines

Purpose: To present a national guideline for ophthalmologic care and surveillance of juvenile idiopathic arthritis-associated uveitis (JIA-uveitis).Methods: Review article based on medical literature and the experience of an Expert Committee composed of members of the Brazilian Society of Pediatric Ophthalmology/Brazilian Council of Ophthalmology and the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics/Brazilian Society of Rheumatology. Studies with a high level of evidence were selected by searching the PubMed/Medline database. The final document was approved by the experts.Results: The main recommendations are that children/adolescents with JIA should undergo screening according to their risk factors. Ophthalmological checkups should also consider ocular inflammation and therapy. Topical glucocorticoids should be the first line of therapy, with systemic glucocorticoids acting as bridge treatments in severe uveitis. Methotrexate should be the first-line systemic therapy and anti-tumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF alpha) the second for uncontrolled uveitis.Conclusions: This evidence-based guideline for JIA-uveitis will be useful for both ophthalmology and rheumatology practice.

Phacotrabeculectomy in Eyes With Uveitic Glaucoma: A Retrospective Case-Control Study

PRECIS

Phacotrabeculectomy with adjunctive mitomycin C is a good option for the management of coexisting cataract and glaucoma. Strict preoperative control of inflammation and close follow-up are essential in the management of eyes with uveitic glaucoma (UG).

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of phacotrabeculectomy with adjunctive antimetabolites in the management of patients with UG and patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective case-control study of 112 patients with UG and 120 patients with POAG who underwent phacotrabeculectomy with mitomycin C and had a follow-up of ≥12 months between January 2000 and June 2015 was performed. Patients who had undergone intraocular surgery or cyclodestructive procedures earlier were excluded. The primary outcome was intraocular pressure (IOP) control; secondary outcomes included visual acuity and complication rates.

RESULTS

IOP control was similar at the final visit in the UG group (14.52±6.74 mm Hg) and the POAG group (14.39±4.18 mm Hg) (P=0.867). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed a cumulative probability of survival (IOP: 6 to 18 with or without medications) in 71% and 77% at the end of 5 years (P=0.094) in the UG and POAG groups, respectively. Visual outcomes were worse in the UG group (0.5±0.68 logMAR units), as compared with the POAG group (0.27±0.47 logMAR units) (P=0.002). Complications such as cystoid macular edema (P=0.025) and posterior capsular opacification (P=0.004) were more common in the UG group. Recurrence of inflammation occurred in 34 eyes (30.04%) in the UG group.

CONCLUSION

Meticulous control of perioperative and postoperative inflammation could have contributed to the favorable long-term outcomes of phacotrabeculectomy in UG, as compared with POAG.

Assessment of Anterior Chamber by Ultrasound Biomicroscopy and Anterior Segment Optical Coherence Tomography in Patients with Inflammatory Glaucoma

Objective

To investigate the clinical indications of ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) in eyes with inflammatory glaucoma.

Methods

Sixteen patients (16 eyes) with inflammatory glaucoma were analysed retrospectively. All of the subjects underwent UBM and AS-OCT scans, measuring the following parameters: central corneal thickness (CCT), central anterior chamber depth (ACD), angle-opening distance (AOD500), and trabecular-iris angle (TIA500) in four quadrants.

Results

Both the UBM and AS-OCT generated detailed, high-resolution images of the anterior segments of the eyes with inflammatory glaucoma. Moreover, the UBM and AS-OCT exhibited statistically similar measurement results for all of the indices. A Bland–Altman analysis showed a high level of agreement between the two imaging techniques. Additionally, the UBM was able to visualize the ciliary body and pars plana, while the cells and the flare in the anterior chamber appeared more pronounced in the UBM images.

Conclusions

Both the UBM and AS-OCT are useful tools for anterior segment imaging and taking measurements needed for evaluating inflammatory glaucoma. The AS-OCT has the advantages of being noninvasive and fast, whereas the UBM is presently unparalleled in the visualization of the ciliary body and pars plana.

Primary glaucoma surgery in Fuchs' heterochromic uveitis: a comparison of trabeculectomy versus deep sclerectomy

Background:

Deep sclerectomy offers the potential advantage of less postoperative inflammation and better survival in Fuchs’ patients. The aim of this study was to compare survival and safety profiles of Fuchs’ heterochromic uveitis patients undergoing trabeculectomy or deep sclerectomy.

Methods:

A retrospective study was conducted of two separate cohorts who had undergone either trabeculectomy or deep sclerectomy. Patient demographics, best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, antimetabolite used, postoperative complications and subsequent procedures were analysed.

Results:

In total, 13 trabeculectomy patients and 14 deep sclerectomy patients were included. Mean preoperative intraocular pressure was similar at 30.1 mmHg in the trabeculectomy group and 35.9 mmHg in the deep sclerectomy group, with no significant difference between the two (p = 0.22). Kaplan–Meier survival outcomes for success at <22 mmHg and <19 mmHg showed no significant differences between the groups and this was also the case for intraocular pressure at 3 years (analysis of variance; p = 0.47).

Conclusion:

Both procedures appear to have similar efficacy and safety profiles, suggesting that both are effective.

Surgical outcomes of trabeculectomy and glaucoma drainage implant for uveitic glaucoma and relationship with uveitis activity

IMPORTANCE

This study provides ophthalmologists who manage uveitic glaucoma with important information on factors that can affect the success of surgical management of this challenging disease.

BACKGROUND

This study examines surgical outcomes of trabeculectomy and glaucoma device implant (GDI) surgery for uveitic glaucoma, in particular the effect of uveitis activity on surgical outcomes.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review at a tertiary institution.

SAMPLES

Eighty-two cases with uveitic glaucoma (54 trabeculectomies and 28 (GDI) surgeries) performed between 1 December 2006 and 30 November 2014.

METHODS

Associations of factors with surgical outcomes were examined using univariate and multivariate analysis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Surgical outcomes as defined in Guidelines from World Glaucoma Association.

RESULTS

Average follow up was 26.4 ± 21.5 months. Overall qualified success rate of the trabeculectomies was not statistically different from GDI, being 67% and 75%, respectively (P = 0.60). Primary and secondary GDI operations showed similar success rates. The most common postoperative complication was hypotony (~30%). Active uveitis at the time of operation was higher in trabeculectomy compared with GDI group (35% vs. 14%). Active uveitis at the time of surgery did not significantly increase risk of failure for trabeculectomies. Recurrence of uveitis was significantly associated with surgical failure in trabeculectomy group (odds ratio 4.8, P = 0.02) but not in GDI group.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Surgical success rate of GDI was not significantly different from trabeculectomy for uveitic glaucoma in this study. Regular monitoring, early and prolonged intensive treatment of ocular inflammation is important for surgical success particularly following trabeculectomy.

Comparing Trabeculectomy Outcomes between First and Second Operated Eyes: A Multicenter Study

Objective

To compare surgical outcomes between the first and second operated eyes in patients who underwent trabeculectomy in both eyes.

Methods

This retrospective clinical cohort study at five clinical centers in Japan included 84 patients with open-angle glaucoma who underwent primary trabeculectomy in both eyes. The primary outcome was surgical success or failure, with failure being defined according to three criteria: <20% reduction of the preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP), or Criterion A, IOP >21 mmHg; Criterion B, IOP >18 mmHg; or Criterion C, IOP >15 mmHg. Cases of reoperation, a loss of light perception vision, or hypotony were also considered as “failures”.

Results

There were no significant differences in success rate for any of the three criteria between the first and second operated eyes. For patients whose first trabeculectomy was successful, when the second trabeculectomy was performed ≥2 months after the first, the survival curves for all three criteria for the second trabeculectomy were significantly worse than those for patients waiting a shorter interval between trabeculectomies (Criterion A, 52.0% vs 83.6%, P = 0.0031; Criterion B, 51.5% vs 80.4%, P = 0.026; Criterion C, 51.1% vs 80.4%, P = 0.048). In multivariable analyses, a longer interval between trabeculectomies was a significant prognostic factor for surgical failure (Criterion A, P = 0.0055; Criterion B, P = 0.0023; Criterion C, P = 0.027). However, no dependency on the interval between trabeculectomies was found among patients whose first trabeculectomy failed.

Conclusions

If the first trabeculectomy is successful, a long interval before the second trabeculectomy increases the risk of surgical failure in the second eye. This result has clinical implications for developing surgical strategies for patients with bilateral glaucoma.

Canaloplasty in patients with uveitic glaucoma: a pilot study

PURPOSE

Glaucoma is a common vision-threatening complication of uveitis. We investigated the outcome of canaloplasty in patients with chronic uveitis and uncontrolled secondary glaucoma.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 12 patients with medically uncontrolled secondary glaucoma who underwent canaloplasty (14 treated eyes), with follow-up of ≥ 24 months. The primary outcome measure was complete and qualified (requirement for anti-glaucomatous medication) surgical success rates, as determined by a reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) and the need for anti-glaucomatous medication. Secondary outcome measures were uveitis activity, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), vision-threatening complications, and secondary glaucoma surgery.

RESULTS

Canaloplasty resulted in a significant IOP reduction, from a mean preoperative baseline level of 27.1 ± 12.3 mmHg to a mean of 14.5 ± 4.3 mmHg (p = 0.01) at 24 months. Complete success (limit of 15 mmHg) was achieved in six patients and qualified success in one patient. However, failure was noted in five patients, two of whom required additional glaucoma surgery. Topical anti-glaucomatous medications were reduced from 2.7 ± 1.2 (mean ± SD) at baseline to 0.6 ± 1.2 at 24 months (p = 0.007). Uveitis activity did not increase after surgery. BCVA was not reduced; cataract progressed in two patients.

CONCLUSION

At 2-year follow-up, overall success rate was 58 % (IOP ≤ 15 with or without medication), and surgery failed in 5 eyes, 2 eyes requiring additional glaucoma surgery. No harmful complications or worsening of uveitis activity were noted.

The Influence of Phacoemulsification on Surgical Outcomes of Trabeculectomy with Mitomycin-C for Uveitic Glaucoma

PURPOSE

To evaluate the influence of phacoemulsification after trabeculectomy on the postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) in eyes with uveitic glaucoma (UG).

SETTING

Kumamoto University Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan.

DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

The medical records of patients with UG who had trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C (MMC) were reviewed. Complete and qualified surgical failures were defined by an IOP of ≥21 mmHg (condition A), ≥18 mmHg (condition B), or ≥15 mmHg (condition C) without and with glaucoma eye drops, respectively. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, generalized by the Wilcoxon test, and the Cox proportional hazards model analysis were conducted. Post-trabeculectomy phacoemulsification was treated as a time-dependent variable. In 24 (30%) of the included 80 eyes, phacoemulsification was included, and they were divided into two groups: groups I (8 eyes with phacoemulsification within 1 year after trabeculectomy) and group II (16 eyes after 1 year following trabeculectomy).

RESULTS

Multivariable Cox proportional hazards model analysis showed post-trabeculectomy phacoemulsification was a significant factor in both complete success and qualified success based upon condition C (P = 0.0432 and P = 0.0488, respectively), but not for the other conditions. Kaplan-Meier survival analyses indicated significant differences in success probabilities between groups I and group II for complete success and qualified success based upon condition C (P = 0.020 and P = 0.013, respectively). There was also a significant difference for qualified success based upon condition B (P = 0.034), while there was no significant difference for the other conditions.

CONCLUSION

Post-trabeculectomy phacoemulsification, especially within 1 year, can cause poor prognosis of IOP control of UG eyes after trabeculectomy with MMC.

Current Approach in the Diagnosis and Management of Uveitic Glaucoma

Uveitic glaucoma (UG) typically is associated with very high intraocular pressure (IOP) and more intense optic nerve damage than other glaucoma types. This secondary glaucoma requires an early diagnosis and adequate management of both uveitis and glaucoma. It is mandatory to identify the mechanisms of IOP elevation that in many eyes have multiple combined mechanisms. Management of these patients commonly requires an interdisciplinary approach that includes a glaucoma specialist and rheumatologist to control the inflammation and IOP. Glaucoma surgery is required early in these patients due to the high IOP usually present and is less successful than in primary open-angle glaucoma. Recurrent uveitic episodes, multiple mechanism, and the complications associated with uveitis make surgical management of UG challenging. In this review, the management and treatment of UG are updated to clarify the pathogenesis and prevent optic nerve damage.

Rare Diseases Leading to Childhood Glaucoma: Epidemiology, Pathophysiogenesis, and Management

Noteworthy heterogeneity exists in the rare diseases associated with childhood glaucoma. Primary congenital glaucoma is mostly sporadic; however, 10% to 40% of cases are familial. CYP1B1 gene mutations seem to account for 87% of familial cases and 27% of sporadic cases. Childhood glaucoma is classified in primary and secondary congenital glaucoma, further divided as glaucoma arising in dysgenesis associated with neural crest anomalies, phakomatoses, metabolic disorders, mitotic diseases, congenital disorders, and acquired conditions. Neural crest alterations lead to the wide spectrum of iridocorneal trabeculodysgenesis. Systemic diseases associated with childhood glaucoma include the heterogenous group of phakomatoses where glaucoma is frequently encountered in the Sturge-Weber syndrome and its variants, in phakomatosis pigmentovascularis associated with oculodermal melanocytosis, and more rarely in neurofibromatosis type 1. Childhood glaucoma is also described in systemic disorders of mitotic and metabolic activity. Acquired secondary glaucoma has been associated with uveitis, trauma, drugs, and neoplastic diseases. A database research revealed reports of childhood glaucoma in rare diseases, which do not include glaucoma in their manifestation. These are otopalatodigital syndrome, complete androgen insensitivity, pseudotrisomy 13, Brachmann-de Lange syndrome, acrofrontofacionasal dysostosis, caudal regression syndrome, and Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome.

Targeting a low-teen intraocular pressure by trabeculectomy with a fornix-based conjunctival flap: continuous Japanese case series by a single surgeon

PURPOSE

To examine the medium-term outcomes of fornix-based trabeculectomy (TLE) performed by a single surgeon and to analyze outcome in 3 glaucoma subtypes.

METHODS

Consecutive prospective case series study to examine the 6-month outcome of 106 eyes [primary open-angle glaucoma (OAG), exfoliation glaucoma (XFG), and inflammatory glaucoma (ING)] that underwent TLE with mitomycin C performed by a single surgeon from September 2009 to September 2010 at Tokyo University Hospital. Main outcome measure was survival rates of targeted intraocular pressure (IOP) after TLE. Postoperative complications and procedures were analyzed according to glaucoma subtypes. Life table analyses were then made according to 2 criteria of failure: (1) IOP was >12 mm Hg with or without the use of topical glaucoma medications after 2 consecutive measurements or another surgery was needed; and (2) IOP was >15 mm Hg.

RESULTS

A total of 106 eyes, which consisted of 67 OAG eyes, 23 XFG eyes, 16 ING eyes, were analyzed for 6 months after TLE. Four eyes were reoperated. During and after hospitalization, complications were equally observed and procedures were equally performed in all of the 3 groups. For the first definition, cumulative survival rates at 6 months after surgery in OAG, XFG, and ING cases were 76.0%, 73.9%, and 62.5%, respectively. For the second definition, cumulative survival rates in OAG, XFG, and ING cases were 88.0%, 78.3%, and 68.8%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Six-month outcome of TLE with a fornix-based conjunctival incision by a single surgeon that targeted an IOP<12 mm Hg was not different among 3 types of glaucoma.

Glaucoma and uveitis

Despite its relative rarity, uveitis is the third leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide. Glaucoma associated with uveitis is one of the most serious complications of intraocular inflammation. We review in detail the epidemiology and pathogenesis of uveitic glaucoma and the safety and efficacy of the current medical and surgical treatment modalities.

Surgical outcomes in childhood uveitic glaucoma

PURPOSE

To evaluate surgical outcomes and to describe a strategy for pediatric uveitic glaucoma.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

The clinical practice of a single surgeon identified 36 patients with juvenile uveitic glaucoma (diagnosed before 18 years of age) who underwent 1 or more intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering surgical procedures. The first eye operated on was included in the analysis. The main indication for success was IOP of less than 21 mm Hg with controlled inflammation, without further IOP-lowering surgery or devastating complication.

RESULTS

Patients with uveitic glaucoma associated with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (n = 20), idiopathic uveitis (n = 9), other (n = 6) were included. Mean age ± standard deviation at initial glaucoma surgery was 11.1 ± 4.4 years with a follow-up of 5.6 ± 4.8 years (range, 0.2 to 16.4 years). Goniotomy was the initial surgical procedure in 31 (86%) eyes. Fifteen eyes did not require further IOP-lowering surgery. Sixteen eyes had additional IOP-lowering surgery: second goniotomy (n = 9), glaucoma drainage device (n = 6), and trabeculectomy (n = 1). By Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, the first versus the first or second goniotomy were successful at 10 years in 48% (95% confidence interval, 28% to 65%) versus 69% (95% confidence interval, 47% to 84%). Goniotomy failure was noncorrelative with phakic status or presence of preoperative synechiae. Five eyes (14%) had initial glaucoma drainage device implantation because of closed angles. Visual acuity was similar between initial and final examinations (0.37 ± 0.48 logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution units [Snellen 20/47] vs 0.28 ± 0.34 logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution units [Snellen 20/38]). IOP was reduced (33.0 ± 8.0 mm Hg vs 12.6 ± 4.5 mm Hg; P < .0001), as was number of glaucoma medications (3.2 ± 1.1 vs 1.2 ± 1.3; P < .0001). Eyes undergoing cataract removal after successful glaucoma surgery maintained IOP control. Glaucoma was controlled and vision was preserved in 33 (92%) eyes.

CONCLUSIONS

Refractory juvenile uveitic glaucoma was managed successfully by goniosurgery and glaucoma drainage device implantation. Cataract removal can be accomplished successfully, provided IOP and uveitis are well controlled before surgery.

Serial intracameral visualization of the Ahmed glaucoma valve tube by anterior segment optical coherence tomography

PURPOSE

To investigate serial changes of the Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implant tube in the anterior chamber by anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT).

METHODS

Patients who had received AGV implantation without complications (n=48) were included in this study. Each patient received follow-up examinations including AS-OCT at days 1 and 2, week 1, and months 1, 3, 6, and 12. Tube parameters were defined to measure its length and position. The intracameral length of the tube was from the tip of the bevel-edged tube to the sclerolimbal junction. The distance between the extremity of the tube and the anterior iris surface (T-I distance), and the angle between the tube and the posterior endothelial surface of the cornea (T-C angle) were defined. Factors that were related to tube parameters were analysed by multiple regression analysis.

RESULTS

The mean change in tube length was -0.20 ± 0.17 mm, indicating that the tube length shortened from the initial inserted length. The mean T-I distance change was 0.11 ± 0.07 mm and the mean T-C angle change was -6.7 ± 5.6°. Uveitic glaucoma and glaucoma following penetrating keratoplasty showed the most changes in tube parameters. By multiple regression analysis, diagnosis of glaucoma including uveitic glaucoma (P=0.049) and glaucoma following penetrating keratoplasty (P=0.008) were related to the change of intracameral tube length.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that the length and position of the AGV tube changes after surgery. The change was prominent in uveitic glaucoma and glaucoma following penetrating keratoplasty.