Current concepts in the treatment of vitreous block, also known as aqueous misdirection

Double trouble in DMEK surgery: Learning experience and review of the literature

PURPOSE

To report a challenging Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) case, complicated by intraoperative aqueous misdirection and spontaneous anterior chamber fibrin reaction.

METHODS

A 70-year-old female affected by corneal edema due to Fuchs endothelial dystrophy underwent a triple procedure (cataract extraction - IOL implantation - DMEK surgery) in her left eye. This report illustrates the management of the intraoperative complications of aqueous misdirection syndrome and anterior chamber fibrin reaction.

RESULTS

Despite the optimal management of the posterior pressure and the thorough removal of the fibrinous reaction during the case, the DMEK graft was not completely unfolded and centred at the end of the surgical procedure. Nonetheless, the patient showed good long-term anatomical and functional recovery: at the last follow-up (2 years after surgery), central corneal thickness was 526 µm with a best corrected visual acuity of 20/25 and an endothelial cell density of 1112 cell/mm2.

CONCLUSION

Early recognition and prompt management of intraoperative aqueous misdirection syndrome and anterior chamber fibrin reaction during DMEK surgery is essential to ensure good functional and anatomical outcomes.

Impact of improved minimally invasive anterior vitrectomy on the prognosis of patients with malignant glaucoma

BACKGROUND

The importance of communicating the anterior chamber and vitreous cavity for managing malignant glaucoma (MG) is widely recognized. This study investigated the impact of improved minimally invasive anterior vitrectomy (IAV) on the prognosis of MG.

METHODS

This retrospective interventional study included patients with MG who underwent conventional surgery or improved minimally IAV in Nanchang Aier Eye Hospital between January 2011 and April 2021. For the improved step, a small amount of triamcinolone acetonide was injected into the vicinity of the iris. Then, the residual vitreous body adhering to triamcinolone acetonide was excised. Comparisons were made using repeated measures ANOVA, t-test, and chi-squared test.

RESULTS

Thirty-one eyes from 26 patients were included: 15 eyes from 13 patients in the conventional group and 16 eyes from 13 patients in the IAV group. The 1-week, 1-month, and 3-month intraocular pressure (IOP) and the 3-month mean central anterior chamber depth were comparable between the two groups (all P > 0.05). The conventional group showed one eye with intraoperative vitreous hemorrhage and two eyes with postoperative re-shallowing of the anterior chamber; such events did not occur in the IAV group, and none developed corneal endothelial decompensation, IOL deviation, suprachoroidal hemorrhage, or retinal detachment during treatment and follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Patients with MG who undergo improved minimally IAV might have similar postoperative IOP and central anterior chamber depth compared with conventional surgery but with reduced complications such as intraoperative vitreous hemorrhage and postoperative re-shallowing of the anterior chamber. Improved minimally IAV might be an alternative surgery for MG.

Efficacy and safety of primary customized phacoemulsification combined with goniosynechialysis for refractory acute primary angle closure

PURPOSE

To assess the safety, efficacy, and long-term clinical outcomes of primary customized phacoemulsification (phaco) combined with goniosynechialysis (GSL; phaco-GSL) in refractory acute primary angle closure (APAC) eyes with uncontrolled high intraocular pressure (IOP).

METHODS

This retrospective case series comprised 51 eyes of 42 consecutive patients with refractory APAC and high IOP who were treated using primary customized phaco-GSL at 3 hospitals in China, from 2014 to 2021. Preoperative and postoperative IOP, corrected distant visual acuity (CDVA), corneal endothelial cell density (CECD), intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded. The safety, efficacy and subsequent long-term clinical outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean CDVA (LogMAR) was improved from 1.67 ± 0.94 preoperatively to 0.23 ± 0.26 postoperatively (P < 0.001). Preoperative CECD was 2309.39 ± 541.03 cells/mm2 in 33 eyes and inaccessible in 18 eyes due to severe corneal edema; at the final follow-up, the mean CECD of all patients was 1823.50 ± 533.40 cells/mm2 (P < 0.001). The mean IOP decreased from 48.51 ± 6.25 mmHg preoperatively to 15.66 ± 2.27 mmHg at the final follow-up (P < 0.001). Among 51 eyes, additional customized procedures performed were corneal indentation in 42 eyes, epithelial debridement in 9 eyes, giant epithelial bullae view in 4 eyes, pars-plana fluid aspiration in 3 eyes, and secondary intraocular lens implantation in 7 eyes. The IOP of all eyes was well controlled eventually and 47 eyes (92.16%) were successfully treated by phaco-GSL alone. No significant intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Primary customized phaco-GSL is a safe and effective surgical management strategy for patients with refractory APAC and high IOP.

Early Ciliovitreal Block following Ab Externo XEN Gel Implantation

Purpose

To report a case of ciliovitreal block following ab externo implantation of a XEN gel stent for glaucoma.

Methods

Case report.

Results

An 84-year-old African American male underwent ab externo implantation of a XEN gel stent for elevated intraocular pressure. Several days after the surgery, the patient developed severe eye pain and reduced vision. Examination revealed ciliovitreal block (also called aqueous misdirection or malignant glaucoma) which was unresponsive to medical and laser treatment. Pars plana vitrectomy with anterior and posterior synechialysis and anterior chamber reformation were performed. The ciliovitreal block was resolved, and intraocular pressure brought to acceptable levels, but vision in that eye remained poor, likely due to the period of elevated pressure prior to treatment.

Conclusion

Ciliovitreal block is a rare postsurgical (typically) form of secondary angle closure characterized by narrow or flat central and peripheral anterior chamber, anterior displacement of the lens-iris diaphragm, anterior rotation of ciliary processes, and (usually) elevated intraocular pressure. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of ciliovitreal block occurring after ab externo XEN implantation. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing vision loss.

Exploration on surgery of malignant glaucoma with prolonged absence of the anterior chamber: a retrospective consecutive case series

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the surgical outcomes of anterior chamber restoration in patients with malignant glaucoma and a prolonged absence of the anterior chamber.

METHODS

Five patients with malignant glaucoma and a long-term absence of the anterior chamber underwent a combination of anterior pars plana vitrectomy (aPPV), phacoemulsification cataract excision, intraocular lens implantation, peripheral iridotomy (PI), goniosynechialysis (GSL) (referred to aPPV + P + I + PI + GSL) at Beijing Tongren Hospital from October 2018 to June 2021. The study compared the changes in their visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP) and medication requirements between the pre-surgery period and their most recent follow-up visit.

RESULTS

The five patients did not report any discomfort, such as pain, tearing, swelling, etc., in their affected eyes, and maintained a stable restoration of the anterior chamber. Among the affected eyes, only one eye demonstrated improved vision during the follow-up visit, while the remaining four eyes did not show any significant improvement. One eye underwent transscleral cyclophotocoagulation as an additional procedure, while the other four eyes did not require any further surgical intervention. In all cases, the intraocular pressure (IOP) was successfully controlled below 30 mmHg. Post-surgery, four eyes still required cycloplegia treatment, and three eyes continued to rely on eye drops to manage their IOP.

CONCLUSION

Despite minimal improvement in vision, surgical intervention successfully restored the anterior chamber in malignant glaucoma patients with a prolonged absence of anterior chamber. This restoration contributed to alleviating subjective complaints of discomfort and delaying eyeball atrophy.

Incidence and characteristics of aqueous misdirection after glaucoma surgery in Chinese patients with primary angle-closure glaucoma

BACKGROUND

To report the incidence and clinical characteristics of aqueous misdirection (AM) after glaucoma surgery in Chinese patients with primary angle-closure glaucoma.

METHODS

Medical records of all patients diagnosed with primary angle-closure glaucoma who underwent glaucoma surgery in the Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University between January 2012 and December 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Cases of AM were identified through a keyword-based search. The incidence of AM was calculated. Demographic and clinical characteristics of the AM patients were also described.

RESULTS

A total of 5044 eyes with primary angle-closure glaucoma were included (mean age 65.81 ± 9.96 years, 68.11% women). Thirty-eight eyes developed AM, presenting an overall incidence of 0.75%. The mean time interval between surgery and first record of AM diagnosis was 2.57 ± 5.24 months (range, 0 day to 24 months). The incidence of AM was significantly higher in patients aged ≤ 40 years (21.28%) and those aged 40-50 years (3.32%), compared to those > 50 years (0.42%) (P < 0.001). AM developed much more frequently among patients with chronic angle-closure glaucoma (1.30%), compared to those with acute angle-closure glaucoma (0.32%, P < 0.001). Eleven eyes (0.37%) developed AM following non-filtering surgery compared to 24 eyes (2.27%) after filtering surgery (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The incidence of AM after glaucoma surgery was 0.75% in Chinese patients with primary angle closure glaucoma. Younger age, chronic angle-closure glaucoma, and undergoing filtering surgery, were identified as associated risk factors for developing AM. Phacoemulsification may have less risk of developing AM compared to filtering surgery.

Biomechanical homeostasis in ocular diseases: A mini-review

Diabetes mellitus-induced hyperglycemia is responsible for multiple pathological ocular alternations from vasculopathy to biomechanical dyshomeostasis. Biomechanical homeostasis is crucial to maintain the normal physiological condition of the eyes. Biomechanical features vary in eye tissues regarding different anatomical positions, tissue components, and cellular functions. The disturbance in biomechanical homeostasis may result in different ocular diseases. In this review, we provide a preliminary sketch of the latest evidence on the mechano-environment of the eyeball and its possible influencing factors, thereby underscoring the relationship between the dyshomeostasis of ocular biomechanics and common eye diseases (e.g., diabetic retinopathy, keratoconus, glaucoma, spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome, retinal vein occlusion and myopia, etc.). Together with the reported evidence, we further discuss and postulate the potential role of biomechanical homeostasis in ophthalmic pathology. Some latest strategies to investigate the biomechanical properties in ocular diseases help unveil the pathological changes at multiple scales, offering references for making new diagnostic and treatment strategies targeting mechanobiology.

Effectiveness of surgical management of malignant glaucoma in phakic eyes

AIM

To assess the effectiveness of core vitrectomy-phacoemulsification-intraocular lens (IOL) implantation-capsulo-hyaloidotomy in treating phakic eye at least 1mo after the onset of malignant glaucoma.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis were performed on malignant glaucoma patients treated in Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center between 2016 and 2018. Demographic and clinical data were described. The preoperative and postoperative visual acuity (VA), intraocular pressure (IOP), number of IOP-lowering medications used, and anterior chamber depth (ACD) of the case series were compared by Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

RESULTS

Thirteen phakic eyes with long time intervals between onset and surgery were identified in this case series. Core vitrectomy-phacoemulsification-IOL implantation-capsulo-hyaloidotomy reduced the IOP (P=0.046) and the number of IOP-lowering medications used (P=0.004), deepened the ACD (P=0.005). Complete success was achieved in 38.5% of the eyes, and anatomical success was achieved in 100% of the eyes without any recurrence. The only postoperative complication observed is corneal endothelial decompensation. It occurred in two cases.

CONCLUSION

Core vitrectomy-phacoemulsification-IOL implantation-capsulo-hyaloidotomy is safe and effective for treatment of long onset phakic malignant glaucoma.

Associations Between the Choroidal Vascularity Index and Malignant Glaucoma After Trabeculectomy for Primary Angle Closure Glaucoma

Purpose: To compare the choroidal vasculature characteristics by using the choroidal vascularity index (CVI) in eyes with malignant glaucoma (MG), fellow eyes with non-MG, and eyes with uncomplicated primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) after trabeculectomy by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Methods: This case-control study included 53 patients diagnosed with MG after trabeculectomy. Eyes with MG (n = 53) and the fellow eyes with non-MG (n = 50) were included. Eyes with PACG without MG after trabeculectomy (n = 60) were also enrolled as controls. The choroidal parameters, including CVI and the subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT), were measured by using SD-OCT images. Results: Eyes with MG and the fellow eyes showed a significantly lower CVI than eyes with PACG controls (p < 0.001). After adjusting for age, sex, axial length (AL), and intraocular pressure (IOP), eyes with the greater CVI [odds ratio (OR), 0.44] were significantly related to MG. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the CVI was greater than that of the SFCT in the diagnosis of MG (0.911 vs. 0.840, p = 0.034). Conclusion: Eyes with MG showed a significantly lower macular CVI than eyes with PACG controls. A higher macular CVI was an associated factor of eyes with MG. The CVI serves as a more stable and sensitive indicator for MG than the SFCT in this group of patients with PACG.

Central Pars Plana Vitrectomy + Phacoemulsification + Intraocular Lens Implantation in Patients with Small Eyes, Cataract, and Narrow Anterior Chambers

Purpose

To evaluate the results of central pars plana vitrectomy + phacoemulsification + intraocular lens implantation in patients with small eyes, cataract, and narrow chambers.

Methods

This prospective study was carried out in 89 eyes of 58 patients undergoing central pars plana vitrectomy + phacoemulsification + IOL implantation in small eyes with cataract at Clínica La Luz Eye Institute in Lima, Peru.

Results

The mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.8±0.6 preoperatively, 0.5±0.6 at 1 month, 0.3±0.3 at 6 months, 0.1±0.1 at 9 months, and 0.05±0.1 at 1 year, which was statistically significant from the preoperative period to 1 year of follow-up. Mean intraocular pressure was 22.09±2.4 mmHg preoperatively, 14.55±2.9 mmHg at 1 day, 12.94±2.04 mmHg at 1 month, 12.01±1.2 mmHg at 6 months, 12.20±1.9 mmHg at 9 months, and 11.34±1.1 mmHg at 1 year. The reduction in the intraocular pressure from the preoperative control period to the follow-up at 1 year was statistically significant. There was only one complication, a rupture of the posterior capsule, which was quickly resolved.

Conclusion

Central pars plana vitrectomy with phacoemulsification is a safe and effective technique to perform in narrow chambers with all types of cataracts, in experienced hands, which can avoid intraoperative complications.

Pediatric intraoperative ciliary block

Pediatric patients who undergo intraocular surgery are at risk for many of the same perioperative complications as adults. The same methodical approach to assessing perioperative shallowing of the anterior chamber that presents in the adult population should be followed for children. We present a rare case of intraoperative ciliary block in a 3-year-old boy undergoing a second glaucoma drainage device implantation that was successfully treated with pars plana vitrectomy and hyaloid-zonulo-iridectomy.

Anterior vitrectomy, phacoemulsification cataract extraction and irido-zonulo-hyaloid-vitrectomy in protracted acute angle closure crisis

Purpose

To describe a modified surgical approach with anterior vitrectomy, phacoemulsification (phaco) cataract extraction and irido-zonulo-hyaloid-vitrectomy (IZHV) in protracted acute angle closure crisis (AACC).

Patients and methods

Non-comparative, retrospective case series including 21 eyes in 19 consecutive cases of protracted AACC, which persists for at least 7 days despite maximal medical and laser therapies, were included in this study. All patients underwent a modified surgical procedure with anterior vitrectomy, phaco cataract extraction, IOL implantation, goniosynechialysis (GSL) and IZHV, using modest phaco dynamic parameters with intraocular pressure (IOP) set at 30 mmHg through the procedure using Centurion® Vision System equipped with active fluidics while the anterior vitrectomy was set at 4000 or 5000 rpm. IOP and anterior chamber space were maintained through the procedure using ophthalmic viscosurgical device (OVD) injected through paracentesis whenever the Phaco or I/A probe was withdrawn from within the anterior chamber. Medical history, visual acuity (VA), IOP and anterior and posterior segment findings were recorded and compared before and after surgical treatment.

Results

The average age of all patients was 60.05 years old, while the average period of persistent AACC was 20.05 days. Preoperatively, the average IOP of all included eyes was 44.40 ± 8.42 mmHg despite maximal topical and systemic anti-glaucoma medications and/or laser surgeries, while the average VA was 1.46 ± 0.88 (log MAR). Postoperatively, IOP was well controlled in all patients with an average IOP at 12.06 ± 3.07 mmHg without any anti-glaucoma medications at follow-ups, which was decreased significantly from that in preoperative measurements (P < 0.001). Visual acuity was improved significantly at final follow-up with an average postoperative VA at 0.74 ± 0.77 (log MAR, P < 0.001). Anterior segment inflammation was surprisingly mild with no or minimal inflammatory cells or exudates. Anterior segment configuration was resolved in all the cases. There was no recurrent IOP spike, anterior chamber shallowing or severe complications during an average follow-up of 5.38 months (ranging from 3 to 6 months).

Conclusions

Protracted AACC is a complex situation while a modified surgical strategy of anterior vitrectomy, phaco cataract extraction and IZHV provides a safe and efficient solution.

Pseudophakic Angle Closure Due to Vitreous Block Following Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy

Background

Here, we describe a patient who exhibited pseudophakic angle closure due to vitreous block following ureteroscopic lithotripsy under general anesthesia.

Case Presentation

A 57-year-old Thai man presented with sudden eye pain and blurring of vision in the left eye following ureteroscopic lithotripsy under general anesthesia. The patient had a history of coconut hit into his left eye which resulted in traumatic anterior lens subluxation, for which he had undergone phacoemulsification and scleral-fixated intraocular lens implantation in the left eye. Prior scleral fixation procedure, anterior vitrectomy was not performed. Clinical examination showed mushroom-shaped vitreous in the anterior chamber with absolute pupillary block, which had resulted in acute angle closure. Thus, topical and oral antiglaucoma medications were administered to achieve normal intraocular pressure in the left eye, followed by laser peripheral iridotomy in that eye. The anterior chamber depth was successfully increased. Limited anterior vitrectomy by a pars plana approach was performed to prevent recurrent angle closure. The patient’s vision improved and his intraocular pressure remained controlled without any antiglaucoma medication.

Conclusion

Vitreous block can occur in patients with pseudophakia, especially in the presence of a ruptured posterior capsule. Cautious intraoperative anterior vitrectomy and surgical iridectomy are warranted. General anesthesia may contribute to the onset of vitreous block in susceptible patients.

Simultaneous bilateral aqueous misdirection following certolizumab therapy for rheumatoid arthritis

Aqueous misdirection syndrome is a rare, incompletely understood, sight-threatening eye condition that is difficult to diagnose and treat. We present a case of simultaneous bilateral aqueous misdirection following the administration of certolizumab in a 41-year-old women with rheumatoid arthritis and no known risk factors. To our knowledge, aqueous misdirection has not previously been associated with the use of tumour necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors.

Slit-lamp Pars Plana Needle Hyaloidotomy-Zonulotomy-Iridotomy for the Treatment of Spontaneous Malignant Glaucoma

An 88-year-old woman with a history of recent complicated pacemaker insertion presented with acute-onset malignant glaucoma recalcitrant to conservative medical therapy. Surgical intervention was discussed; however, given her complex cardiac history and recent postoperative state, the risk of anesthesia-related systemic adverse events was deemed unacceptably high. As such, a slit-lamp procedure was recommended to break the attack of malignant glaucoma. Here within, we report a novel technique of breaking an attack of malignant glaucoma by needling the anterior hyaloid face at the slit lamp. With this technique, a 25-G needle was entered through the pars plana and was advanced through the anterior hyaloid face, zonules, and peripheral iridotomy to create a unicameral eye and successfully break the malignant closure attack.

One-year outcome of low dose laser cyclophotocoagulation for capsular tension ring-induced malignant glaucoma: A case report

RATIONALE

Malignant glaucoma is a refractory glaucoma which often relentlessly worsened despite conventional therapy. Ultrasonographic biomicroscopy always cannot show the ciliary-block of malignant glaucoma. We report a case of capsular tension ring induced ciliary-block and successfully treated by low dose laser cyclophotocoagulation, with 1-year follow-up.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 75-year-old woman was referred for glaucoma with a history of cataract and lens zonular laxity, and surgery with combined phacoemulsification and capsular tension ring implantation. She subsequently underwent trabeculectomy for uncontrolled intraocular pressure on maximal medical therapy. One day later, the patient presented as shallow anterior chamber of Shaffer grade 1 and an elevated intraocular pressure of 51.0 mmHg in the right eye.

DIAGNOSIS

Ciliary block caused by capsular tension ring and malignant glaucoma was observed.

INTERVENTIONS

Low dose laser cyclophotocoagulation was performed under retrobulbar anesthesia.

OUTCOMES

One day later, the patient's intraocular pressure decreased to 14.3 mmHg on topical atropine 1% and 2 classes of intraocular pressure lowering medications. The patient discontinued topical atropine and intraocular pressure lowering medications 4 months postoperatively and her condition had remained stable for 1 year without any medications. The patient had a satisfactory recovery benefited from the low dose laser cyclophotocoagulation.

LESSONS

Low dose laser cyclophotocoagulation in this challenging case of capsular tension ring-induced malignant glaucoma provided an effective and fast recovery of anterior chamber depth over a 1-year period.

Factors Impacting Outcomes and the Time to Recovery From Malignant Glaucoma

PURPOSE

To identify factors associated with the successful treatment of malignant glaucoma (MG).

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

Setting: single institution; study population: 64 eyes (55 subjects) with MG; observation procedure(s): chart review; main outcome measures: anatomy, intraocular pressure (IOP), best visual acuity (BVA).

RESULTS

87.5% (n=56/64) of eyes with MG required surgical intervention. Vitrectomy was more likely to be successful in eyes with a history of <3 incisional surgeries, <3 glaucoma drops, or IOP ≤30 mm Hg (P < .05). If vitrectomy was performed within 30 days, recovery of anatomy, BVA, and IOP occurred sooner (P < .05). IOP reduction was greater in subjects treated with oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (P = .016) or Nd:YAG laser hyaloidotomy (P = .007), and without a history of MG (P = .007). Time to maximal improvement was significantly longer for IOP and BVA than anatomy (P < .001). Treatment of MG with an oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitor hastened anatomic recovery (P = .01). Time to improvement in BVA was significantly faster in men and African Americans (P < .05). Time to maximal reduction in IOP occurred sooner in eyes that underwent anterior chamber reformation in clinic (P < .002). Trabeculectomy surgery prior to MG was associated with prolonged recovery of anatomy, BVA, and IOP (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Earlier vitrectomy may shorten recovery times for MG. Nd:YAG laser hyaloidotomy and oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors may lead to greater IOP reduction. The time to maximal improvement in IOP and BVA may be longer than the time to anatomic resolution. Although trabeculectomy may impede time to recovery from MG, oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors may shorten the time to anatomic recovery and anterior chamber reformation may hasten IOP recovery.

Virtual Eye Simulation: An Aid in Evaluation of Capsular Block Syndrome

Objective:

To demonstrate the findings of three consecutive cases of postoperative Capsular Block Syndrome (CBS) diagnosed with the aid of Pentacam virtual eye simulation images.

Methods:

Observational case series report. Three patients underwent uneventful cataract removal and presented with blurry vision ranging from 4 days to 5 years after the surgeries were performed.

Results:

In a case of early-onset postoperative CBS, virtual eye simulation images clearly revealed a reduced posterior chamber depth caused by the accumulation of transparent fluid in the area between the intraocular lens and the posterior capsule. In two cases of late-onset postoperative CBS, virtual eye simulation images better visualized the alignment between intraocular lens (IOL) and iris than slit lamp examination and Schiemflug images. All three of the cases underwent neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy, and their capsular bag distensions were resolved immediately. The patients with misalignments between IOL and iris experienced more improvement in best-corrected visual acuity as opposed to the one who did not.

Conclusion:

Virtual eye simulation is found to be a useful way in visualizing misalignment between IOL and iris and assisting diagnoses of both early- and late-onset postoperative capsular block syndrome.

Seasonal Variation in the Incidence of Malignant Glaucoma after Cataract Surgery

Purpose:

To investigate a potential link between the incidence of malignant glaucoma after cataract surgery and seasonal variations in daylight.

Methods:

In total, 18,374 uncomplicated cataract surgeries were performed between June 2008 and June 2013 at an ambulatory surgery center in Toronto. Toronto's average monthly daylight over that time period—in hours per day for each month—was determined. The number of malignant glaucoma cases that developed after cataract surgery performed in months with above average daylight was compared to the number of cases that developed after cataract surgery performed in months with below average daylight. Fisher's exact test was used to analyze the relationship between the development of malignant glaucoma and variation in daylight during the month of cataract surgery.

Results:

Malignant glaucoma developed in 16 eyes. Thirteen cases of malignant glaucoma developed in months with above average daylight and three cases developed in months with below average daylight (P = 0.01). Eyes that developed malignant glaucoma in months with more daylight were slightly longer (21.95 ± 1.23 mm) than those that developed malignant glaucoma in months with less daylight (21.55 ± 0.88 mm).

Conclusion:

Light-induced choroidal expansion may play a major role in the development of malignant glaucoma following cataract surgery.

Prophylactic anterior vitrectomy during cataract surgery in eyes at increased risk for aqueous misdirection

PURPOSE

Patients with chronic narrow angle glaucoma (CNAG) are at increased risk of developing aqueous misdirection (AM) following intraocular surgery. We present a retrospective case series on the use of posterior capsulorrhexis with core vitrectomy by an anterior approach (CAV) at the time of cataract extraction with or without glaucoma surgery as a prophylactic measure for the prevention of AM in CNAG.

METHODS

Retrospective case series of six phakic eyes in four patients with CNAG and other risk factors for AM who underwent posterior capsulorrhexis and CAV at the time of cataract surgery with or without glaucoma surgery. The main outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), and post-operative complications.

RESULTS

Six eyes in four subjects underwent posterior capsulorrhexis with CAV at the time of cataract surgery. The case was combined with incisional glaucoma surgery in the five eyes with advanced visual field loss. The mean logMAR BCVA and IOP improved from 0.554 ± 0.398 and 25.2 ± 13 mmHg, respectively, at the pre-operative visit to 0.257 ± 0.218 and 12.2 ± 1.7 mmHg, respectively, at final follow-up. Both eyes with nanophthalmos developed non-appositional serous choroidals that resolved with atropine, but the left eye required additional treatment with synechiolysis, intraocular lens repositioning, limited AV and endocyclophotocoagulation. There were no permanent, vision-threatening complications.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPORTANCE

CAV can be safely combined with cataract surgery and glaucoma surgery, and it may be an effective intervention in eyes with CNAG and other risk factors for AM as a prophylactic measure against the development of AM.

Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Malignant Glaucoma after Different Procedures Treated with Pars Plana Vitrectomy: A 10-Year Retrospective Study

Background and objectives: Despite established common risk factors, malignant glaucoma (MG) remains a rare condition with challenging management. We aimed to analyze differences in risk factors for MG after different surgeries and outcomes after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included cases of MG treated with PPV between January 2005 and December 2015 in the Department of Ophthalmology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania. Results: A total of 39 cases were analyzed: 23 (59%) after cataract surgery, 13 (33.3%) after trabeculectomy, and 3 (7.7%) after other interventions. Characteristics among the groups did not differ. Intraocular lens refractive power was significantly higher in the cataract group, in which intraocular pressure (IOP) before MG was significantly greater in the affected eye. Normotension was achieved in 92.3%, and a normal anterior chamber in 75%. Additional measures included eye drops (n = 24), trabeculectomy (n = 5), bleb revision (n = 2), synechiotomy (n = 4), and cyclophotocoagulation (n = 1). The proportion of drop-free patients significantly increased after PPV compared with that before MG development (38.5% versus 15.4%). Complications were observed in 11 cases: choroidal detachments with spontaneous resolution (n = 2); retinal detachment (n = 1); constant mydriasis (n = 1), neovascular glaucoma (n = 1); obstruction of filtrating zone by iris (n = 1) and by blood clot (n = 1); posterior synechia formation causing IOP rise (n = 4 (all resolved after synechiotomy)). The cataract group experienced significantly fewer complications than the trabeculectomy group (17.4% vs. 53.8%, respectively). Conclusions: There were no differences in the risk of MG among the different surgeries. However, higher IOP in the predisposed eye (versus contra-lateral eye) could indicate additional risk of MG after cataract surgery. PPV afforded reliable treatment for MG and the possibility for glaucoma patients to discontinue topical treatment.

Pars-plana fluid aspiration for positive vitreous cavity pressure in anterior segment surgeries

Positive vitreous pressure due to misdirection of aqueous or choroidal effusion leads to shallowing of the anterior chamber (AC) before or during anterior segment surgeries. This shallow AC if not addressed makes surgery difficult and increases the risk of surgical complications. Methods to prevent and manage this condition described in literature are not without problems. We describe a minimally invasive technique of passing a 30G needle through the pars-plana to aspirate misdirected fluid from vitreous cavity either as a prophylaxis just before surgery or during it, thereby decreasing positive vitreous pressure. This technique, used in 12 eyes, seems to be effective in patients with angle-closure glaucoma, malignant glaucoma, and per-operative sudden increase in vitreous pressure during surgery. Small-incision surgeries are ideally suited for this procedure. This minimally invasive technique is simple to perform and complications are unlikely to be more than what is seen with intravitreal injections.

Mini-vitrectomy; a Simple Solution to a Serious Condition

Purpose

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of clear corneal approach irido-zonulo-hyaloido-vitrectomy, which we named "mini-vitrectomy," in the management of pseudophakic aqueous misdirection.

Methods

In this retrospective, non-comparative interventional case series, 24 eyes with diagnosis of pseudophakic aqueous misdirection were enrolled. Medical therapy with cycloplegics and laser therapy, including posterior capsulotomy and hyaloidotomy, was not effective in the management of the condition. The eyes underwent mini-vitrectomy, a simple technique in which iridotomy, zonulectomy, hyaloidectomy, and limited anterior vitrectomy were performed via a clear cornea incision. The main outcome measure was reformation of the anterior chamber, which was evaluated at day 1 and months 1, 3, 6, and 12.

Results

The mean age of patients was 75.3 ± 11.3 years (range, 47 to 90), and 13 (54.2%) patients were women. Anterior chamber was deep in 22 patients (91.7%) at the last follow-up visit. The mean intraocular pressure (IOP) was 30.31 ± 1.9 mm Hg at presentation on 2.67 ± 1.09 glaucoma medications. IOP decreased significantly to 14.5 ± 4.6 mm Hg at 12-month follow-up. (P = 0.001). The number of glaucoma medications at final visit was 2.2 ± 0.9 (P = 0.21).

Conclusion

Mini-vitrectomy is a simple, safe, and effective procedure in the management of pseudophakic aqueous misdirection, and it can be adopted by all ophthalmologists who are involved in glaucoma management and are not comfortable with the pars plana vitrectomy approach.

The best of the best: a review of select glaucoma case reports published in 2015

This review article summarizes four key case reports published in the field of glaucoma in the year 2015. The first article describes a novel technique for draining choroidal fluid in patients with uveal effusion syndrome. The second article describes 2 cases of recurrent vitreous block despite adequate surgical intervention. The third article describes 2 cases of endogenous steroid response glaucoma. The last article describes the treatment of visual phenomena following iridectomy using femtosecond laser assisted keratopigmentation.

Refractory aqueous misdirection syndrome: A possible complication of penetrating keratoplasty

CLINICAL CASE

An 85 year-old woman presented with a flat anterior chamber of the left eye, severe ocular hypertension, and a normal ultrasound examination in the day following a penetrating keratoplasty (PK). The clinical status did not respond to maximum medical therapy, laser posterior capsulotomy, anterior hyaloidotomy, and complete 23 G vitrectomy. The patient refused further intervention, and light perception was lost after 6 months of follow-up.

DISCUSSION

This is the first report of refractory aqueous misdirection syndrome following primary PK. Despite maximum medical and surgical management efforts, aqueous misdirection syndrome subsequent to primary PK may have a catastrophic outcome.

Postoperative management of trabeculectomy and glaucoma drainage implant surgery

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article describes important aspects of postoperative management after trabeculectomy and glaucoma drainage implant surgery.

RECENT FINDINGS

Postoperative management of glaucoma drainage implant surgery includes stabilization of intraocular pressure, possible ligature release, and management of complications such as corneal edema, and tube/plate exposure. Postoperative management of trabeculectomy includes evaluation of bleb encapsulation, management of hypotony, and assessment of need for adjuvant therapy. Recent advances in surgical techniques, device/tissue availability, and imaging continue to shape the postoperative course.

SUMMARY

Careful preoperative planning and postoperative care may decrease the likelihood of complications in tube surgery or trabeculectomy.