Effect of technique on intraocular pressure after combined cataract and glaucoma surgery: An evidence-based review

Comparative study of surgical outcomes of twin-site phacotrabeculectomy with mitomycin C in primary open-angle glaucoma versus primary angle-closure glaucoma

Purpose

To compare the surgical outcomes of twin-site phacotrabeculectomy with Mitomycin C (MMC) in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) versus primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG).

Methods

Prospective, comparative, observational study. Patients with visually significant cataract and primary glaucoma were divided into two groups: POAG and PACG. They underwent twin-site phacotrabeculectomy with MMC and followed up on days 1, 15, 1 month, 6 months, and 12 months. Baseline and follow-up visits were compared to find the differences in intraocular pressure (IOP), antiglaucoma medications (AGM), success rates, anterior chamber depth (ACD), and axial length (AXL).

Results

There were 50 eyes each in POAG and PACG groups. Mean IOP reduction from baseline to 12 months (21.22 ± 6.0 to 11.40 ± 2.8-POAG group vs 24.16 ± 7.6 to 12.42 ± 3.2-PACG group) was statistically significant in both groups (P < 0.001), but no significant difference between groups (P = 0.095). There was a statistically significant decline in the number of AGM in POAG [1.66 (0.7) to 0.38 (0.7), P < 0.001] and PACG [2.10 (0.7) to 0.70 (0.8), P < 0.001]; the decline was more in POAG (P = 0.012) at last visit. Probability of overall (complete and qualified) success at 12 months postop was 72.0% [95% confidence interval (CI): 57.4-82.4] in PACG and 84.0% (95% CI: 70.5-91.7) in POAG group. There was a significant increase in ACD and a decrease in AXL in both groups (P < 0.001). More interventions were required in the PACG group (38, P = 0.012).

Conclusion

Phacotrabeculectomy with MMC causes a significant reduction in IOP and improvement in biometric parameters in both POAG and PACG. Patients with PACG required more postoperative interventions, while a lesser number of antiglaucoma medications were needed in POAG patients.

Surgically induced astigmatism following single site and twin site phacotrabeculectomy augmented with mitomycin C

PURPOSE

To determine difference in surgically induced astigmatism (SIA), post-operative intraocular pressure (IOP) and axial length (AL) between single site and twin-site phacotrabeculectomy augmented with Mitomycin C (MMC).

DESIGN

Prospective interventional randomised controlled study.

METHODS

In a prospective interventional comparative study, eligible patients were scheduled for phacotrabeculectomy. They were randomised to either group A: single site or group B: twin-site phacotrabeculectomy with MMC 0.2 mg/mL. Axial length was measured by using Zeiss IOL master I, pre-operatively and at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months post-operatively. Corneal topography was performed using Bausch and Lomb Orbscan I pre-operatively and at 3, 6 and 12 months post-operatively to analyse surgically induced astigmatism. Vector analysis was used to analyse the surgically induced astigmatism.

RESULTS

One hundred and eight eyes of which 55 patients in group A, and 53 patients in group B were enroled for vector analysis. The mean preoperative astigmatic vector power was +0.89 ± 0.4 D and +0.97 ± 0.5 D in group A and B respectively. The mean post-operative astigmatic vector power was +0.78 ± 0.4 D in group A and +0.96 ± 0.5 D in group B at the end of 12 months. Corneal topography showed post-operative superior flattening (51.8% at 3 months and 55.4% at 12 months) in group A (P = 0.072) compared to superior steepening (59.6% at 3 months and 61.5% at 12 months) in group B (P = 0.977).

CONCLUSIONS

The two commonly used techniques of combined cataract and glaucoma surgery proved to be efficacious without significant difference in surgical induced astigmatism.

Comparison of long-term results of trabeculectomy and phacotrabeculectomy in patients with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma and primary open-angle glaucoma: a single-center study

PURPOSE

To evaluate long-term surgical success and complications in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PEXG) and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) after trabeculectomy or phacotrabeculectomy.

METHODS

96 PEXG eyes and 114 POAG eyes who underwent primary trabeculectomy and phacotrabeculectomy were retrospectively evaluated considering intraocular pressure (IOP), the number of glaucoma medications, surgical success, and rate of complications. Two success criteria were used: Complete success comprised IOP of 5-18 mmHg and 20% reduction of baseline IOP without medication. Qualified success comprised IOP of 5-18 mmHg and 20% reduction of baseline IOP irrespective of medication. Success rates in PEXG and POAG groups, trabeculectomy and phacotrabeculectomy groups, and four groups divided according to surgery and etiology were analyzed via Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.

RESULTS

The complete and qualified success were not different between PEXG and POAG groups. The qualified success curves show a similar pattern among the four groups throughout the follow-up of 1,2,3,5,7 and 9 years. Baseline IOP and the number of medications were similar in all four groups (p = 0.275 and p = 0.209, respectively). IOP levels and the number of medications were not statistically different between the four groups during the follow-up of 2,5 and 7 years. The total number of complications and interventions were similar between PEXG and POAG groups (p = 0.258).

CONCLUSIONS

Phacotrabeculectomy is an effective procedure as trabeculectomy with similar surgical success rates and few surgical complications when it comes to treating PAOG and PEXG patients. Both approaches resulted in similar postoperative IOP levels and medication numbers in both groups.

Surgically induced astigmatism and refractive outcomes following phacotrabeculectomy

Purpose

To objectively evaluate surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) after phacotrabeculectomy using keratometry and topography and to compare the magnitude of SIA and the refractive outcomes of single-site and twin-site phacotrabeculectomies.

Methods

Forty prospective subjects were enrolled in the study and were randomized into single-site and twin-site cohorts. SIA was objectively assessed using keratometry and Orbscan before and at three months after surgery. For both cohorts, the changes in SIA were assessed using power vector analysis compared at the third month after surgery.

Results

Each cohort consisted of 20 eyes. The preoperative parameters and postoperative IOP were comparable and similar, respectively, in both the cohorts (P = 0.1). Majority of the patients in both the cohorts had preoperative against-the-rule (ATR) astigmatism. The median change in SIA at the three-month postoperative visit was similar in both the cohorts, with a small increase in ATR astigmatism. Although the SIA change measured by keratometry in the J0 component was similar in both the groups (P = 0.54), that of J45 was significantly different (P = 0.01). However, the median change in SIA was similar in both the groups for both the J0 (P = 0.52) and J45 components (P = 0.94) when measured by Orbscan. The SIA in both the groups measured with keratometry (P = 0.62) and topography (P = 0.52) were clinically and statistically similar. In both the groups, the refraction was similar at 1 month and 3 months.

Conclusion

The SIA as measured with keratometry and topography was similar in the single-site and twin-site phacotrabeculectomy cohorts at the end of 3-months. The postoperative refraction was stabilized in 1-month in both the groups.

Outcomes of trabeculectomy with polyvinylpyrrolidone collagen versus mitomycin in primary open angle glaucoma. 36-month follow-up

PURPOSE

Describe and compare the effects of intraoperative application of Polyvinylpyrrolidone Collagen (PVP) versus Mitomycin C (MMC) on the pattern of change in mean IOP reduction and mean number of medications over 36-months follow-up in patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) undergoing trabeculectomy.

METHODS

Prospective, randomized, comparative study. Twenty-six eyes of 26 patients with POAG and no previous incisional glaucoma surgery underwent trabeculectomy and were randomized to PVP or MMC and completed a 36-month follow-up. Main outcome measures were IOP and number of glaucoma medications. Multivariate longitudinal analysis was performed by fitting a linear trend model adjusting for baseline response for the IOP outcome and a log-linear regression model with within-subject associations for the number of hypotensive medications outcome. Sensitivity analysis was performed to assess lower and higher order polynomial trends over time in IOP.

RESULTS

The univariate analysis revealed that the mean IOP reduction from baseline to 36 months was 7.62mmHg (3.05; 12.18) in the MMC group and 8.15mmHg (-0.64; 16.95) in the PVP group. Mean percentage IOP reduction from baseline was 37.09% (15.93; 58.17) and 36.08% (5.16; 67.20) in the PVP group. Mean change in number of medications from baseline to 36 months was -0.92 medications (-3.38; +1.54) for the MMC group and -1 medication (-3.12; +1.12) for the PVP group. Both groups had a statistically significant decline in mean IOP over the follow-up period (p<0.001) but there was no discernible difference between the two exposure groups in the rate of change in IOP (p=0.5975). Sensitivity analysis showed that a linear trend model is adequate to describe the IOP reduction over the follow-up period. Both groups had a statistically significant change in the number of hypotensive medications used between baseline and month 36 (p<0.05) but there was no discernible difference between exposure groups (p=0.2917). Both the PVP and MMC groups showed an initial reduction in number of medications until month 12 and a relatively linear increase towards month 36. A longer follow-up may be warranted to reveal differences in the number of medications between the two exposure groups. Postoperative complications were less frequent in the PVP group.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of PVP during trabeculectomy achieves and maintains a statistically significant IOP reduction from baseline to 36 months and decreases the number of glaucoma medications. Secondary outcome measures showed a lower incidence of adverse events in the PVP group.

Comparison of the Surgical Outcomes of Single-Site, Mitomycin C-Augmented Trabeculectomy Combined with Phacoemulsification versus Manual Small-Incision Cataract Surgery

Purpose

To compare the safety, efficacy, and outcome measures of a single-site, mitomycin C (MMC)-augmented trabeculectomy combined with phacoemulsification (PT) versus manual small-incision cataract surgery (MSICS) with the posterior chamber intraocular lens (PCIOL) implantation as a primary surgery in the patients with primary glaucoma coexistent with cataract.

Methods

From April 2015 to August 2017, medical records of all the patients who underwent combined cataract surgery with PCIOL and MMC augmented trabeculectomy were reviewed. One hundred and thirty-seven eyes met the inclusion criteria. Ninety-seven eyes which underwent PT with MMC were compared with forty eyes that underwent MSICS combined with trabeculectomy (MSICST) MMC. Outcome measures were best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), and number of anti-glaucoma medications (AGM). Complications, if any, were noted in both the groups.

Results

The mean follow-up period after surgery was 18.6 ± 7.7 months (range, 12-40 months). At the last follow-up visit, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups, in terms of mean logMAR BCVA (PT: 0.22 ± 0.31, MSICST: 0.21 ± 0.33, P = 0.8), mean IOP reduction (PT: 13.9 ± 2.98 mmHg, MSICST: 14.1 ± 4.12 mmHg, P = 0.8), and mean number of AGM (PT: 0.03 ± 0.8, MSICST: 0.025 ± 0.7, P = 0.8). Complications were few and transient. One eye in the PT group was considered as a failure and had to undergo needling, repeat trabeculectomy, and later, cyclodestructive procedure. None of the eyes in the MSICST group required an additional procedure for IOP reduction.

Conclusion

There was no difference in the mean IOP reduction, BCVA, and mean number of AGM between the two procedures, and both appeared to be safe and effective techniques as a primary surgery in the patients with coexistent cataract and glaucoma.

Development of a rabbit model of persistent hypotony without ciliary body injury

In order to study the pathophysiological alterations of the ciliary body (CB) during persistent hypotony, it is necessary to develop an animal model without CB injury. In this study, we successfully established a modified model of persistent hypotony without CB injury in New Zealand rabbits. A 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) was performed and a trocar-formed fistula was allowed to remain in situ, to produce a continuous outflow of intraocular fluid. Both eyes underwent PPV with normal intraocular pressure (IOP); eyes with no surgical intervention were used as controls. The IOP was monitored and used to evaluate the reliability of the model. Secondary changes of hypotony were evaluated by slit-lamp biomicroscopy and B scans while morphological changes of the CB were observed by haematoxylin and eosin staining. The mean IOP in the hypotony groups were consistently lower than 6 mmHg. Furthermore, there were no significant differences in IOP between the PPV control group and normal eyes. Collectively, our data indicate that this model successfully simulates the secondary changes of hypotony, including a reduction in corneal size, corneal oedema, anterior chamber inflammation, morphological alterations of the CB, cataract, retinal detachment, and choroidal detachment. The morphological structure of the CB tissue changed dramatically after persistent hypotony, indicating that normal IOP may be required in order to maintain normal function in the CB. This model of persistent hypotony potentially represents a valuable tool for future studies aiming to investigate the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying CB dysfunction and other secondary changes that occur during hypotony.

New superior modified fornix-based twin-site phacotrabeculectomy

Phacotrabeculectomy is the preferred surgical management of coexisting visually significant cataract and moderate to advanced glaucoma. We report the surgical technique of a new modified fornix-based separate-site phacotrabeculectomy, with mitomycin C (MMC) application, in both primary open angle and angle closure glaucoma. In this new separate-site technique, both phaco and filtration are accommodated superiorly, side by side, hence called twin-site. This was achieved in an efficacious and safe manner with sparing of limbal stem cells without compromising safety. It is not only MMC-compatible but also has a low incidence of wound leak. The technique has no adverse consequence on the survival of the bleb, and we achieved complete success in 79.2% and total success in 93.1% in 130 eyes of 117 patients, in the intermediate term. Furthermore, the time taken for this separate-site surgical technique is comparable to published one-site procedures.

Identification and Description of Reliable Evidence for 2016 American Academy of Ophthalmology Preferred Practice Pattern Guidelines for Cataract in the Adult Eye

Importance

Trustworthy clinical practice guidelines require reliable systematic reviews of the evidence to support recommendations. Since 2016, the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) has partnered with Cochrane Eyes and Vision US Satellite to update their guidelines, the Preferred Practice Patterns (PPP).

Objective

To describe experiences and findings related to identifying reliable systematic reviews that support topics likely to be addressed in the 2016 update of the 2011 AAO PPP guidelines on cataract in the adult eye.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Cross-sectional study. Systematic reviews on the management of cataract were searched for in an established database. Each relevant systematic review was mapped to 1 or more of the 24 management categories listed under the Management section of the table of contents of the 2011 AAO PPP guidelines. Data were extracted to determine the reliability of each systematic review using prespecified criteria, and the reliable systematic reviews were examined to find whether they were referenced in the 2016 AAO PPP guidelines. For comparison, we assessed whether the reliable systematic reviews published before February 2010 the last search date of the 2011 AAO PPP guidelines were referenced in the 2011 AAO PPP guidelines. Cochrane Eyes and Vision US Satellite did not provide systematic reviews to the AAO during the development of the 2011 AAO PPP guidelines.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Systematic review reliability was defined by reporting eligibility criteria, performing a comprehensive literature search, assessing methodologic quality of included studies, using appropriate methods for meta-analysis, and basing conclusions on review findings.

Results

From 99 systematic reviews on management of cataract, 46 (46%) were classified as reliable. No evidence that a comprehensive search had been conducted was the most common reason a review was classified as unreliable. All 46 reliable systematic reviews were cited in the 2016 AAO PPP guidelines, and 8 of 15 available reliable reviews (53%) were cited in the 2011 PPP guidelines.

Conclusions and Relevance

The partnership between Cochrane Eyes and Vision US Satellite and the AAO provides the AAO access to an evidence base of relevant and reliable systematic reviews, thereby supporting robust and efficient clinical practice guidelines development to improve the quality of eye care.

Effect of different incision sites of phacoemulsification on trabeculectomy bleb function: prospective case-control study

Background

The aim of this study was to compare superior and temporal clear corneal incisions of uneventful phacoemulsification and in-the-bag intraocular lens implantation on intraocular pressure control and the bleb morphology in eyes that have undergone previous successful trabeculectomy.

Methods

In this Prospective case-control study, a total of 100 eyes of 100 patients previously undergone trabeculectomy without antimetabolites, divided into two groups. Group A (temporal group) including 50 patients underwent phacoemulsification with a temporal corneal incision and group B (superior group) including 50 patients underwent phacoemulsification with a superior corneal incision. Comparisons between the two groups were performed after one year of follow-up regarding Intraocular pressure changes, bleb morphology score using the Wuerzburg bleb classification score and any added glaucoma medications.

Results

At the last visit, the mean intraocular pressure for the temporal group was 17.55 ± 1.47 (p = 0.51) and for the superior group was 16.90 ± 1.71 (p = 0.85); the difference between the two groups was insignificant (p = 0.21). Regarding the bleb morphology, the mean bleb morphology score in the temporal group was 10.50 ± 0.95 (p = 0.19) and for the superior group was 10.20 ± 1.06 (p = 0.01).There was an insignificant difference in the bleb grading morphology regarding both groups (p = 0.35).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that phacoemulsification whether done with a clear temporal or clear superior wound, does not affect intraocular pressure, bleb morphology or function after one year of follow-up in eyes following previous successful trabeculectomy. Furthermore, cataract surgery may be performed safely in eyes with functioning filtering blebs.

Trial registration

ISRCTN91835217 ‘retrospectively registered’ Date Of registration 6/6/2017

Combined Phacoemulsification and Ahmed Glaucoma Drainage Implant Surgery for Patients With Refractory Glaucoma and Cataract

PURPOSE

To examine the indications, safety, efficacy, and complications of combined phacoemulsification and Ahmed glaucoma drainage implant surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective case review of 35 eyes (31 patients) subjected to combined phacoemulsification and Ahmed glaucoma drainage implant surgery. Demographic characteristics of the study population, indications for combined surgery, and operative and postoperative complications were recorded. Visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), and number of glaucoma medications were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively. Complete success was defined as IOP ≤ 21 mm Hg without medication, qualified success if IOP ≤ 21 mm Hg with ≥ 1 medications, and failure if IOP>21 mm Hg or ≤ 5 mm Hg on ≥ 2 consecutive visits.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 29.5 months (range, 6 to 87 mo). The most common indication for combined surgery was a history of prior failed trabeculectomy (60%). Postoperative visual acuity improved in 30 of 35 eyes (85%) (P<0.01) regardless of the indication for combined surgery. IOP was reduced from a mean of 24.7 to 15.0 mm Hg at the last follow-up visit (P<0.01). The number of IOP-lowering medications was reduced from a median of 3.1 preoperatively to 1.7 at the last follow-up (P<0.01). Overall, there were 31 eyes (89%) classified as qualified success and 4 eyes (11%) as complete success. The most common postoperative complication was a hypertensive phase in 18 eyes (51%).

CONCLUSIONS

Combined phacoemulsification and Ahmed glaucoma drainage implant surgery seems to be a safe and effective surgical option, providing good visual rehabilitation and control of IOP for patients with refractory glaucoma and cataract.

The Safety and Efficacy of Two-site Phacotrabeculectomy with Mitomycin C under Retrobulbar and Topical Anesthesia

Purpose: To evaluate and compare the safety and efficacy of combined two-site phacoemulsification and trabeculectomy surgery with mitomycin C (MMC) in glaucoma-cataract patients with retrobulbar or topical anesthesia.

Patients and methods: A retrospective, nonrandomized review of consecutive phacotrabeculectomy patients with a minimum follow-up time of 6 months, no previous glaucoma surgeries, and a preoperative visual acuity (VA) greater than light perception. The main outcome measures were preoperative and postoperative VA, intraocular pressure (IOP), use of glaucoma medications, and complications. A complete surgical success required an IOP from 6 to 18 mm Hg, no visually devastating complications, no return to surgery, and no use of glaucoma medications. Qualified success allowed the use of up to two glaucoma medications. Anesthesia groups were compared by student t-tests and log rank comparison of Kaplan-Meier survival rates.

Results: Eighty-seven eyes (83 patients) met inclusion criteria, with a mean follow-up of 19 ± 12 months (6-57 months). The average eye gained 3.1 ± 4.9 lines of VA, lost 4.0 ± 7.1 mm Hg of IOP, and decreased 1.0 ± 1.3 glaucoma medications. Retrobulbar and topical anesthesia groups had statistically equivalent mean changes in VA (p = 0.910), IOP (p = 0.268), and use of glaucoma medications (p = 0.964). Postoperative complication rates were also statistically similar (p = 0.580). Complete success was greater in the retrobulbar group (p = 0.006), however, qualified success was equivalent in both groups (p = 0.769).

Conclusion: Two-site phacotrabeculectomy with MMC in West Indian patients is as safe and effective for glaucoma-cataract patients with topical anesthesia as it is under retrobulbar anesthesia, and without short-term losses in VA and the chance of serious complications from injection.

How to cite this article: Rodriguez R, Alburquerque R, Sauer T, Batlle JF. The Safety and Efficacy of Two-site Phacotrabeculectomy with Mitomycin C under Retrobulbar and Topical Anesthesia. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2016;10(1):7-12.

Biodegradable collagen matrix implant versus mitomycin-C in trabeculectomy: five-year follow-up

Background

Clinical studies comparing trabeculectomy augmented with Ologen implant (OLO) versus trabeculectomy plus mitomycin-C (MMC) show contradictory results. To obtain long-term data, we report an extended 5-year follow-up trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of OLO as adjuvant compared to low-dosage MMC in trabeculectomy.

Methods

Forty glaucoma patients (40 eyes) assigned to trabeculectomy with MMC or Ologen. Primary outcome: target IOP at ≤21, ≤17 and ≤15 mmHg; complete and qualified success endpoint rates. Secondary outcomes: visual acuity (VA), mean deviation (MD), bleb evaluation, according to Moorfields Bleb Grading System (MBGS); spectral domain OCT (SD-OCT) bleb examination; number of glaucoma medications; frequency of postoperative complications.

Results

The mean preoperative IOP was 26.7(±5.2) in MMC and 27.3(±6.0) in OLO eyes. Mean 60-month percentage reduction in IOP was significant in both groups [40.9 (±14.2) and 42.1(±13.3) P = 0.01], with an endpoint value of 15.2 (±3.2) and 15.8 (±2.3) mmHg in MMC and OLO, respectively. Complete success rates at ≤ 21 mmHg target IOP were 65 % and 70 %, at ≤17 mm Hg 60 % and 55 %, and at the ≤15 mm Hg target IOP 35 % and 45 % in MMC and OLO, respectively.

The Kaplan–Meier curves did not differ both for complete and qualified success at any target IOP, with no significant endpoint intergroup difference at ≤ 15 mm Hg (log-rank P = 0.595).The intergroup MBGS scores differed due to reduced central and peripheral vascularity in MMC group (P = 0.027; P = 0.041).

SD-OCT analysis denied differences in bleb height between MMC vs OLO (140.5 ± 20.3 μ vs 129.2 ± 19.3 μ respectively; P =0.079).

Mean antiglaucoma medications were significantly reduced (P < 0.0005) from 2.5 (±0.3) to 1.2 (±0.4) in MMC and from 2.6 (±0.2) to 1.4 (±0.3) in OLO group, with no intergroup differences (P = 0.08).

Six (30 %) cystic thin avascular blebs without oozing were recorded in the MMC group and 2 (10 %) in the OLO group, without intergroup difference (P = 0.235).

Conclusions

Our extended follow-up results confirm that Ologen implant yields efficacy and long-term success rates quite similar to MMC, with at least equivalent safety.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12886-016-0198-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Practice patterns and treatment changes for open-angle glaucoma: the RiGOR study

AIMS

The RiGOR study provides a current picture of the types of glaucoma treatment over 12 months.

METHODS

Patients were identified and enrolled at the time of decision to proceed with laser surgery procedure or other procedure such as incisional surgery or drainage device implantation, or initiation of a new or additional course of therapy with medication for glaucoma treatment.

RESULTS

The most frequent type of treatments were prostaglandin analogues (60%) among patients with additional medication, selective laser trabeculoplasty (87%) among patients with laser surgery and trabeculectomy (57%) among patients with incisional surgery.

CONCLUSION

For 36% of patients, a treatment cascade involves two or more therapies over a year. This demonstrates the complex nature of open-angle glaucoma treatment.

Outcomes of combined phacoemulsification and deep sclerectomy: a 10-year UK single-centre study

PURPOSE

To report the outcomes of combined phacoemulsification and -deep sclerectomy (phaco-DS) from a single UK centre over a 10-year period.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of phaco-DS data extracted from an ongoing glaucoma surgery database within Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Trust. Two hundred and ninety-six eyes of 282 patients were included. Data included patient demographics, pre- and postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP), use of mitomycin C (MMC), spacer device implantation, and follow-up details including surgical success rates. IOP success criteria were: (A) IOP <19 mm Hg and/or 20% decrease from baseline and (B) IOP <16 mm Hg and/or 30% drop from baseline.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 63.5 ± 35.3 months. MMC was applied in 145 eyes (49%). Kaplan-Meier success rates in all eyes for criteria A were 89.1% and 80% with glaucoma medications (qualified success) and 81.2% and 68.3% without medications (unqualified success) at 2 and 5 years, respectively. Qualified success for criteria B was 72.4 and 61.4% and unqualified rates were 67.2 and 55.2% for the same time periods. Repeated-measures ANOVA showed significantly lower IOP in the phaco-DS with MMC group up to 3 years postoperatively (P = 0.002). Cox's proportional hazards for criteria B, however, showed no significant effect of MMC application in the long term (P = 0.2). Increasing age and laser goniopuncture were positively associated with success, whereas the absence of spacer devices was negatively associated. At last follow-up, 20% of eyes were on glaucoma medications. Complication rates were low with hypotony rates of 0.68%.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the long-term safety and efficacy of phaco-DS as a primary glaucoma procedure.

Refractive outcomes of combined cataract and glaucoma surgery

PURPOSE

This study was designed to evaluate the refractive outcomes of combined cataract extraction and glaucoma surgery.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of patients undergoing simultaneous cataract extraction with trabeculectomy or glaucoma drainage device surgery was performed. The main outcome measure evaluated was whether or not spherical equivalent of -1.00 to +0.50 D was achieved at 3 to 6 months postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included: reduction in intraocular pressure, amount of cylinder induced by combined surgery, and individual patient characteristics that may have affected refractive outcome. Outcomes were compared with an age-matched and sex-matched control group of patients who had uncomplicated cataract surgery during the same time period.

RESULTS

Forty-three eyes of 36 patients underwent combined cataract extraction and glaucoma surgery. A refractive outcome of spherical equivalent between -1.00 and +0.50 D was achieved in 32 of 43 eyes (74%) at 3 to 6 months after surgery. Logistic regression analysis found a 1.14 increased risk of the refraction being outside this defined refractive range in older compared with younger patients (by year, 95% CI, 1.04-1.27). Type of lens implant used, type of glaucoma surgery, and preoperative best-corrected visual acuity did not significantly affect refractive outcome. In a subset of 22 eyes with available preoperative keratometry measures, a mean 1.31 D (SD=0.86; range, 0.26 to 3.76) of corneal astigmatism was induced by combined surgery. In comparison, a matched control group who had cataract surgery alone achieved target refractive outcome in 34 of 40 eyes (85%, P=0.001) and had a trend for less induced cylinder (0.99, SD=0.72, P=0.11).

CONCLUSIONS

Favorable refractive outcomes were achieved in the majority of patients despite the potential alteration of preoperative measurements and introduction of error into lens selection when using a combined approach. There does not seem to be a difference in the refractive outcome with regard to the type of glaucoma surgery performed. Control patients who had cataract surgery alone had a higher percentage of achieving target refractive goal and less induced cylinder.

Achieving Target Pressures with Combined Surgery: Primary Patchless Ahmed Valve Combined with Phacoemulsification vs Primary Phacotrabeculectomy

PURPOSE

To evaluate the ability of phacoemulsification combined with either primary trabeculectomy (PT) or primary Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation (PAVI) to achieve target intraocular pressures (TIOP) in adults with primary open angle glaucoma.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chart review of 214 adult patients operated between January 2002 and June 2008 with a minimum follow-up of 6 months. Group 1 comprised 181 eyes of 166 patients undergoing PT while group 2 included 50 eyes of 49 patients in combination with primary AVI. Target lOPs were pre-determined for each patient and success was defined as an IOP at or lower than target with or without medications. An IOP above target, loss of light perception or need for additional procedures to lower IOP were considered a failure.

RESULTS

Mean preoperative IOP was 17.2 mm Hg in group 1 and 17.3 in group 2. Mean postoperative IOPs were 10.2 and 9.2 on day 1, 12.2 and 11.6 at year 1, and 10.7 in both groups at year 5. Survival rates in groups 1 and 2 were 96.7 vs 96% at 6 months, 89 vs 96% at 12 months, 83.5 vs 96% at 24 months and 79.4 vs 89.1% at 36, 48 and 72 months. Transient bleb leaks were more frequent in group 1 (26 eyes, 14.4 vs 0%, p = 0.001) and transient choroidal detachments were more frequent in group 2 (7 eyes, 3.9 vs 6 eyes, 12%, p = 0.038).

CONCLUSION

Midterm results for achieving target pressures using combined phacoemulsification with either PT or PAVI are comparable. The profile of complications is different for the two procedures. How to cite this article: Albis-Donado O, Sánchez-Noguera CC, Cárdenas-Gómez L, Castañeda-Diez R, Thomas R, Gil-Carrasco F. Achieving Target Pressures with Combined Surgery: Primary Patchless Ahmed Valve Combined with Phacoemulsification vs Primary Phacotrabeculectomy. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2015;9(1):6-11.

Comparison of surgical outcomes after phacotrabeculectomy in primary angle-closure glaucoma versus primary open-angle glaucoma

PURPOSE

To compare postoperative outcomes and assess factors associated with intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction after phacotrabeculectomy in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG).

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of patients who underwent phacotrabeculectomy between 2010 and 2013. Factors including age, gender, visual field (VF), the number of glaucoma medications used, biometric changes, IOP, and surgical success rates were compared between groups.

RESULTS

There were 27 PACG and 34 POAG patients. The PACG group had a greater mean IOP reduction after phacotrabeculectomy compared to the POAG group (5.5 ± 7.9 mmHg versus 2.0 ± 4.2 mmHg; p = 0.03). However, the final mean IOP was similar between the two groups (PACG: 12.2 ± 4.8 mmHg, POAG: 12.3 ± 3.1 mmHg; p = 0.92). Phacotrabeculectomy resulted in a mean decrease in axial length (AL) of 0.16 ± 0.15 mm in PACG and 0.16 ± 0.11 mm in POAG (p = 0.96), and an increase in anterior chamber depth (ACD) of 1.41 ± 0.91 mm in PACG, and 0.87 ± 0.86 mm in POAG (p = 0.04). At 2 years follow-up, the cumulative success rate of phacotrabeculectomy was 74% in PACG and 62% in POAG. Multivariate analysis found that early glaucoma stage, greater postoperative increase in ACD, and high preoperative IOP were factors associated with greater IOP reduction.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative success rates and mean IOP on the final visit after phacotrabeculectomy were similar between the PACG and POAG groups. Factors associated with IOP reduction were greater postoperative increase in ACD, and high preoperative IOP.

Canaloplasty with intraoperative low dosage mitomycin C: a retrospective case series

PURPOSE

To evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of intraoperative mitomycin C (MMC) in conjunction with canaloplasty for the treatment of open-angle glaucoma.

METHODS

Observational case series. A microcatheter was used to viscodilate the full circumference of Schlemm canal and to place a trabecular meshwork tensioning suture. Low dosage MMC was applied beneath the superficial scleral flap before dissecting the second, deep scleral flap and accessing Schlemm canal. Qualifying preoperative intraocular pressures (IOPs) were at least 16 mm Hg with a historical maximum IOP of at least 21 mm Hg. Primary outcome measures including visual acuity and adverse events are reported for a 12-month postoperative period. Secondary outcome measures included IOP and glaucoma medication usage.

RESULTS

In 20 eyes of 20 consecutive patients, adverse events were generally transient and not sight threatening. With the use of MMC, there was an increased rate of hypotony as compared with reported results of prior canaloplasty studies. The mean logMAR best corrected visual acuity at baseline was 0.07 ± 0.12 with a mean of 0.09 ± 0.13 at 12 months (P=0.679). Mean IOP decreased from a preoperative value of 23.4 ± 4.3 mm Hg on 2.2 ± 1.2 antiglaucoma medications to 13.4 ± 4.3 mm Hg on no medications at 12 months. At all intervals, IOP and medication use results were significantly reduced versus baseline (P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The adjunctive use of MMC in canaloplasty is safe and effective.

Deterioration of filtering bleb morphology and function after phacoemulsification

BACKGROUND

Trabeculectomy remains the most efficient method of lowering he IOP applied for the treatment of glaucoma refractory to pharmacological treatment. Cataract is concerned as the most frequent late complication of trabeculectomy. The aim of the study was to analyse the effect of phacoemulsification with posterior chamber lens implantation on the morphology and function of filtering bleb in patients after previous successful trabeculectomy.

METHODS

The retrospective study included 122 eyes treated for primary open angle glaucoma, 50 eyes (study group) in which, after a successful trabeculectomy with 5-Fluorouracil, phacoemulsification with posterior chamber lens implantation was performed, and 72 eyes (control group), in which only a successful trabeculectomy was conducted. The surgical success of the trabeculectomy was expressed as IOP < 17 mmHg.

RESULTS

In the group of patients subjected to both trabeculectomy and phacoemulsification, mean IOP was significantly higher than in the group of patients who underwent trabeculectomy after 6 months (p = 0.003), 12 months (p = 0.01) and 18 months (p = 0.007) of observation. The filtering blebs after phacoemulsification in the study group were characterized by a greater reduction, compared to those in the control group. Cox regression survival success was 75% (SE = 5.9; 95% CI: 63.4-86.6), 75% (SE = 5.9; 95% CI: 63.4-86.6), 71% (SE = 5.4; 95% CI: 60.4-81.6) in study group and 92% (SE = 1.8; 95% CI: 91.5-98.5), 92% (SE = 1.9; 95% CI: 88.3-95.7), 91% (SE = 2.0; 95% CI: 87.1-94.9) in control group after 6, 12 and 18 months, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Phacoemulsification causes a significant elevation of IOP in the eyes after previous successful trabeculectomy and deterioration of filtering bleb morphology.

[Combined glaucoma cataract surgeries]

The combined cataract-glaucoma surgery is a procedure gaining a higher role in the surgical treatment for patients having both cataract and glaucoma. Both these pathologies are strongly related to the age. A good knowledge of surgical indications and techniques, complications and postoperative follow-up can improve the outcome of this surgery, which is considered to be the best technique in the treatment of combined cataract and glaucoma. The combined glaucoma and cataract surgery enables us to lower the intraocular pressure and gain in visual acuity in one surgery, with the treatment of two distinct disorders. This kind of surgery requires a close follow-up to spot and manage the post-operative complications.

Mitomycin C-Augmented Trabeculectomy Combined With Single-Site Manual Small-Incision Cataract Surgery Through a Tunnel Flap Technique

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to analyze short-term outcomes of mitomycin C-augmented trabeculectomy combined with manual small-incision cataract surgery (MSICS/Trab).

DESIGN

This was a retrospective, noncomparative single-center case series.

METHODS

Records of eyes that underwent MSICS/Trab with mitomycin C performed between January 2006 and May 2007 were reviewed. Manual small-incision cataract surgery was done through a superior scleral tunnel; a Kelly punch was used for the trabeculectomy through the tunnel flap, and after a peripheral iridectomy, the scleral tunnel was opposed with two 10-0 nylon sutures.

RESULTS

Of the 103 patients, 64 (62.1%) had primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), 23 (22.3%) had secondary open-angle glaucoma (SOAG), and 16 (15.5%) had chronic angle closure glaucoma (CACG). The minimum follow-up was 6 months, and mean follow-up was 12.6 months. Demographics and mean intraocular pressure (IOP) at the time of surgery (30.4 ± 10.3 mm Hg) were comparable in all 3 groups. Significant visual improvement and reduction in IOP levels from baseline were observed at 6 months (16.64 ± 4.75 mm Hg) irrespective of the type of glaucoma (P = 0.035). Subgroup analysis showed a significant difference in IOP levels of CACG group compared with the SOAG group (P = 0.035) at 6 months. However, no statistically significant difference was observed in IOP comparisons between POAG and CACG groups or POAG and SOAG groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Mitomycin C-augmented MSICS/Trab appears to be safe and effective technique in tackling coexistent cataract and glaucoma in developing world.

What comparative effectiveness research is needed? A framework for using guidelines and systematic reviews to identify evidence gaps and research priorities

The authors developed and tested a framework for identifying evidence gaps and prioritizing comparative effectiveness research by using a combination of clinical practice guidelines and systematic reviews. In phase 1 of the project, reported elsewhere, 45 clinical questions on the management of primary open-angle glaucoma were derived from practice guidelines and prioritized by using a 2-round Delphi survey of clinicians. On the basis of the clinicians' responses, 9 questions were classified as high-priority. In phase 2, reported here, systematic reviews that addressed the 45 clinical questions were identified. The reviews were classified as at low, high, or unclear risk of bias, and evidence gaps (in which no systematic review was at low risk of bias) were identified. The following comparative effectiveness research agenda is proposed: Two of the 9 high-priority questions require new primary research (such as a randomized, controlled trial) and 4 require a new systematic review. The utility and limitations of the framework and future adaptations are discussed.

Biodegradable collagen matrix implant vs mitomycin-C as an adjuvant in trabeculectomy: a 24-month, randomized clinical trial

AIM

To verify the safety and efficacy of Ologen (OLO) implant as adjuvant compared with low-dosage mitomycin-C (MMC) in trabeculectomy.

METHODS

This was a prospective randomized clinical trial with a 24-month follow-up. Forty glaucoma patients (40 eyes) were assigned to trabeculectomy with MMC or OLO. Primary outcome includes target IOP at ≤21, ≤17, and ≤15 mm Hg; complete (target IOP without medications), and qualified success (target IOP regardless of medications). Secondary outcomes include bleb evaluation, according to Moorfields Bleb Grading System (MBGS); spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) examination; number of glaucoma medications; and frequency of postoperative adjunctive procedures and complications.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative IOP was 26.5 (±5.2) in MMC and 27.3 (±6.0) in OLO eyes, without statistical significance. One-day postoperatively, the IOP dropped to 5.2 (±3.5) and 9.2 (±5.5) mm Hg, respectively (P=0.009). The IOP reduction was significant at end point in all groups (P=0.01), with a mean IOP of 16.0 (±2.9) and 16.5 (±2.1) mm Hg in MMC and OLO, respectively. The rates and Kaplan-Meier curves did not differ for both complete and qualified success at any target IOP. The bleb height in OLO group was higher than MMC one (P<0.05). SD-OCT analysis of successful/unsuccessful bleb in patients with or without complete success at IOP ≤17  mm Hg indicated a sensitivity of 83% and 73% and a specificity of 75% and 67%, respectively, for MMC and OLO groups. No adverse reaction to OLO was noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that OLO implant could be a new, safe, and effective alternative to MMC, with similar long-term success rate.

Comparative study of phacoemulsification-subscleral trabeculectomy versus phacoemulsification-deep sclerectomy

PURPOSE

To compare the surgical outcomes of phacoemulsification-subscleral trabeculectomy versus phacoemulsification-deep sclerectomy with intraoperative mitomycin C in open-angle glaucoma.

METHODS

The study was conducted on 40 chronic primary open-angle glaucomatous eyes with senile cataract. They were divided into two groups: group I (n = 20): eyes undergoing phacoemulsification with subscleral trabeculectomy, and group II (n = 20): eyes undergoing phacoemulsification with deep sclerectomy. Intraoperative mitomycin C (0.4 mg/ml for 3 min) was applied in both groups. Postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP), complications, glaucoma medications, visual outcomes, and the bleb appearance were assessed for 12 months.

RESULTS

The mean postoperative IOP was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in both groups in all time intervals in comparison to their preoperative values. The mean postoperative IOP was 14.1 ± 5.4 mmHg in group I, and 14.8 ± 3.1 mmHg in group II. No major complications were encountered in either procedure, but complications such as shallow anterior chamber, hypotony, and delayed bleb leaks were common in group I, whereas intraoperative perforation of Descemet's membrane occurred in group II. No significant difference in visual acuity improvement, visual field changes, and surgical success outcome were found between both groups.

CONCLUSION

There was no significant difference in IOP reduction, surgical complications and visual outcomes between subscleral trabeculectomy, or deep sclerectomy with intraoperative mitomycin C in combination with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantations in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma.

Bimanual microincisional phacoemulsification combined with viscocanalostomy plus deeper sclerectomy

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a new technique, two-site bimanual microincisional cataract surgery combined with viscocanalostomy plus deeper sclerectomy (two-site bimanual MICS-VC-DS), in patients with cataract and glaucoma.

DESIGN

Noncomparative, interventional case series.

METHODS

From December 2005 to October 2007, a consecutive series of 12 patients (12 eyes) with uncontrolled primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and cataract have undergone two-site bimanual MICS-VC-DS. Postoperative evaluation included visual acuity (VA), intraocular pressure (IOP), average retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness measurement, and gonioscopic, biomicroscopic, and funduscopic examination. Paired-samples t test was used. A p value of <0.05 was taken as significant.

RESULTS

The mean duration of follow-up was 14.6 months (SD 5.8). At 9 months, mean IOP was 17.0 (SD 4), the mean IOP reduction was 13.2 mmHg (SD 5.86). At 9 months post-surgery, the complete success rate was 75%. Qualified success was achieved in 100% of patients. At 9 months, the mean number of antiglaucoma medications was 0.58 (SD 1.24) (p<0.05). Visual acuity improved by a mean value of 2.8 lines. Average RNFL thickness did not change significantly during the follow-up period (p=0.781).

CONCLUSIONS

Two-site bimanual MICS-VC-DS appears to be an effective and safe procedure with quick visual rehabilitation, acceptable mid-term IOP control, and the advantage of having fewer complications.

Combined cataract extraction and trabeculotomy by the internal approach for coexisting cataract and open-angle glaucoma: initial results

PURPOSE

To provide an update of the short-term results of combined phacoemulsification and trabeculotomy by the internal approach with a follow-up to 21 months.

SETTING

Universities and private practices in the United States.

METHODS

This prospective interventional case series comprised 304 consecutive eyes with open-angle glaucoma and cataract having combined phacoemulsification and trabeculotomy with a Trabectome (NeoMedix Inc.). The Trabectome is designed to open a direct pathway for aqueous to flow from the anterior chamber into Schlemm canal collector channels. Under gonioscopic control, bipolar cautery was applied by a purpose-designed footplate to ablate the trabecular meshwork and inner wall of Schlemm canal. The main outcome measures were intraocular pressure (IOP), glaucoma medication use, and complications.

RESULTS

The mean IOP was 20.0 mm Hg+/-6.3 (SD) preoperatively, 14.8+/-3.5 mm Hg at 6 months, and 15.5+/-2.9 mm Hg at 1 year. There was a corresponding drop in glaucoma medications from 2.65+/-1.13 at baseline to 1.76+/-1.25 at 6 months and 1.44+/-1.29 at 1 year. Subsequent secondary glaucoma procedures were performed in 9 patients. The only frequent complication, blood reflux in 239 patients (78.4%), resolved within a few days.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined phacoemulsification and trabeculotomy by the internal approach using the Trabectome lowered IOP and medication use in the majority of patients. Complications were minimal and comparable to those in an earlier series of Trabectome-only procedures.

[Mid-term effects of two-site phacotrabeculectomy with limbal-based conjunctival flap and microincision trabeculectomy with adjustable sutures]

PURPOSE

To evaluate the midterm effects of two-site phacotrabeculectomy with limbal-based conjunctival flap and microincisinal trabeculectomy with adjustable sutures.

DESIGN

and method: The charts of 115 patients (188 eyes) were retrospectively reviewed. Patients had a mean age of 74.7 years and were all operated by the same surgeon between 2001 and 2003. The surgery consisted of a clear cornea phacoemulsification and a microtrabeculectomy with limbal-based conjunctival flap. The number of sutures on the scleral flap was adjusted according to the filtration.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative IOP was 17.7 +/- 3.94 mmHg, and the mean number of antiglaucomatous medications was 2.05 +/- 0.86. The last postoperative IOP was 13.2 +/- 2.81 mmHg with a mean of 0.8 +/- 0.8 medications. Mean follow-up was 29.8 months (1-7 years). Visual acuity improved by at least two lines in 154 eyes (81%), stabilized (+/- 1 line) in 33 eyes (17.37%), and worsened of more than two lines in one eye (1.63%). Early postoperative complications were seven Seidels (3.68%), one shallow anterior chamber (0.55%), three chorioretinal detachments (1.58%), six hyphemas (3.15%), one iris incarceration (0.55%), and eight corneal edemas (4.21%). Late complications were five cases of bleb fibrosis despite needling and 5-FU injection. We had no cases of wipe-out syndrome.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows the effectiveness of this special phacotrabeculectomy technique on IOP control and visual acuity improvement, with low complication incidence compared to classical phacotrabeculectomies.

E-PTFE (Gore-Tex) implant with or without low-dosage mitomycin-C as an adjuvant in penetrating glaucoma surgery: 2 year randomized clinical trial

PURPOSE

To test the expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) as a new adjuvant in trabeculectomy.

METHODS

Consecutive glaucoma surgical inpatients were observed at the Department of Ophthalmology of Palermo University. Sixty patients (60 eyes) were randomly assigned to undergo trabeculectomy (T), trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C (TMMC), with ePTFE (TG) or with mitomycin-C and ePTFE (TGMMC). Postoperative visits were scheduled at 24 hr, 7 days, 1, 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Complete success and qualified success were assessed at two target intraocular pressure (IOP) levels -< or =21 and < or =17 mmHg - by Kaplan-Meier curves.

RESULTS

The postoperative IOP reduction was significant (P < 0.01) at the endpoint in all groups, with a mean IOP of 16.9 (+/-2.9), 16.2 (+/-2.7), 15.3 (+/-3.4) and 15.2 (+/-4.3) mmHg in T, TMMC, TG and TGMMC eyes, respectively. No intergroup difference was found at either IOP targets. The Kaplan-Meier curves relating to either the < or =21 mmHg or the < or =17 mmHg target IOP did not show significant intergroup differences for complete and qualified success rate. When ePTFE was used, a trend favouring the medium-term survival rate was noted. No adverse reaction to the ePTFE was present, and no membrane extrusion or conjuctival erosion were noted in any cases. Hypotony was significantly more frequent (P = 0.035) in groups without ePTFE. Moreover, the late MMC-related complications were more frequent when MMC was applied.

CONCLUSION

Expanded polytetrafluoroethylene implant in trabeculectomy is well tolerated and could act as a filtration modulating device. Therefore, it is useful in reducing early hypotony-related complications and contributes to attaining medium-term IOP control that is comparable to the low-dosage MMC.

Randomized Comparison of 1-Site and 2-Site Phacotrabeculectomy with 3-Year Follow-up

PURPOSE

To compare intraocular pressure (IOP) control and other clinical outcomes after 1-site fornix-based and 2-site limbus-based phacotrabeculectomy.

DESIGN

Prospective randomized controlled trial.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 90 eyes of 76 patients with cataract and glaucoma were treated.

METHODS

Forty-four eyes were assigned randomly to receive a 1-site phacotrabeculectomy with a fornix-based conjunctival flap, and 46 eyes were assigned randomly to receive a 2-site phacotrabeculectomy with a limbus-based conjunctival flap. All operations were performed with mitomycin C.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Intraocular pressure and number of antiglaucoma medications were recorded at baseline and during a 3-year follow-up period.

RESULTS

Mean preoperative IOP was 20.1+/-3.8 mmHg in the 1-site group and 19.5+/-5.3 mmHg in the 2-site group (P = 0.56) using a mean of 2.3+/-0.9 and 2.5+/-0.9 antiglaucoma medications, respectively (P = 0.27). After 3 years of follow-up, the mean IOP was 12.6+/-4.8 mmHg in the 1-site group and 11.7+/-4.0 mmHg in the 2-site group (P = 0.40), receiving a mean of 0.3+/-0.7 and 0.4+/-0.9 medications, respectively (P = 0.59). At the end of the study, 73% of 1-site eyes and 78.4% of 2-site eyes had IOPs of less than 18 mmHg while receiving no antiglaucoma medications (P = 0.59). Visual acuity was similar for both groups at 3 months after surgery. There were no significant differences in the need for digital pressure, postoperative bleb needling with 5-fluorouracil, or number of postoperative visits. There were 2 major complications in each group during follow-up. Early leaks of the conjunctival wound closure occurred in 6 eyes in the 1-site group and in 0 eyes in the 2-site group (P = 0.03). Operating time (in minutes) was less in the 1-site surgery group (P<0.0001). Day one postoperative IOP was higher in the 2-site group (P = 0.0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

One-site fornix-based and 2-site limbus-based phacotrabeculectomy were similarly effective in lowering IOP and reducing the need for antiglaucoma medications over a 3-year follow-up period.

Phacoviscocanalostomy versus cataract surgery only in patients with coexisting normal-tension glaucoma: midterm outcomes

PURPOSE

To compare the midterm efficacy and safety of phacoviscocanalostomy (viscocanalostomy, phacoemulsification, and intraocular lens [IOL] implantation) and cataract surgery (phacoemulsification and IOL implantation) in patients with normal-tension glaucoma (NTG) and cataract.

SETTING

Sensho-kai Eye Institute, Kyoto, Japan.

METHODS

Thirty-one eyes had phacoviscocanalostomy, and 35 eyes had uncomplicated cataract surgery only. The intraocular pressure (IOP), postoperative antiglaucoma medications, and visual outcomes were compared between groups.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 34.9 months+/-19.8 (SD) (range 7 to 78 months). At 36 months, the mean preoperative IOP and postoperative IOP were 17.2+/-1.5 mm Hg and 14.1+/-1.6 mm Hg, respectively, in the phacoviscocanalostomy group and 16.7+/-1.4 mm Hg and 15.6+/-3.4 mm Hg, respectively, in the cataract surgery only group. The differences between groups were significant at all time points (P<.05). The success probabilities of the phacoviscocanalostomy group achieving 20% and 30% IOP reductions with (or without) medications were 78.5% (67.4%) and 35.5% (37.4%) at 24 months and 58.0% (44.2%) and 28.0% (26.6%) at 48 months, which were significantly better than the probabilities in the cataract surgery only group, which were 16.0% (9.5%) and 5.7% (2.9%) at 24 months (P<.001 for each comparison, Kaplan-Meier life-table analysis with log-rank test). Based on the modified Aulhorn-Greve classification, the visual acuity and visual fields did not deteriorate in the phacoviscocanalostomy group; the visual fields deteriorated in 6 eyes in the cataract surgery only group during the follow-up (P=.024).

CONCLUSION

Phacoviscocanalostomy lowered IOP and maintained postoperative visual outcomes; it was safe and effective in elderly patients with coexisting NTG and cataract.

[Wound healing modulation in glaucoma surgery]

The wound healing response is one of the major determinants of filtering surgery success. Over the last two decades, antifibrotic agents, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and mitomycin C (MMC), have modified the prognosis of filtering surgery, particularly in patients at high risk for failure. Nevertheless, these agents are associated with severe complications. In order to maximize their benefits and minimize the rate of complications, the use of these powerful treatments has to be carefully evaluated in relation to patient risk factors for scarring. The choice of an antifibrotic agent, mode, dose and duration of application should be made with complete knowledge of the different effects of these treatments and adapted for each patient after an exhaustive preoperative evaluation.