Viscocanalostomy and phacoviscocanalostomy: long-term results

Efficacy and safety of non-penetrating glaucoma surgery with phacoemulsification versus non-penetrating glaucoma surgery: a Meta-analysis

AIM

To compare the clinical efficacy and safety of non-penetrating glaucoma surgery (NPGS) plus phacoemulsification (Phaco-NPGS) and NPGS-alone.

METHODS

We systematically searched various databases and reviewed studies that had evaluated the effects of Phaco-NPGS or NPGS-alone for patients with glaucoma. Primary outcomes included postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) and the number of postoperative antiglaucoma medications. Secondary outcomes were the prevalence of complications, incidence of needling or goniopuncture, and surgical success rate.

RESULTS

In total, 380 and 424 eyes in NPGS-alone and Phaco-NPGS groups respectively were included. Both postoperative IOP and number of medications were significantly lowered in the Phaco-NPGS group than that in the NPDS-alone group [weighted mean difference (WMD)=-1.12, 95% confidence interval (CI): -2.11 to -0.12, P=0.03; WMD=-0.31, 95%CI: -0.53 to -0.09, P=0.006]. Moreover, Phaco-NPGS had a significantly lower prevalence of complications and postoperative procedures compared to NPGS-alone, while no significant difference existed for surgical success.

CONCLUSION

Phaco-NPGS superior to NPGS-alone in the reduction of IOP and medications. Phaco-NPGS can be recommended for glaucoma patients with coexisting cataracts owing to its superior efficacy, fewer complications, and postoperative procedures.

The efficacy of Viscocanalostomies and combined phacoemulsification with Viscocanalostomies in the treatment of patients with glaucoma: a non-randomised observational study

Background

To evaluate the outcomes of Viscocanalostomy (VC) and Phacoviscocanalostomy (PV) in controlling primary and secondary glaucoma in a large cohort of patients from a single eye unit and performed by a single surgeon.

Methods

This non-randomised, retrospective study was conducted on 620 eyes of 458 patients. All patients who had either viscocanalostomy (VC) or combined phacoemulsification and viscocanalostomy (PV) over a three-year period were included. Intraocular pressures (IOP), number of anti-glaucoma medications used, and any complications were recorded over a 3-year follow up period.

Paired T-Test was used to compare preoperative and post-operative IOP at specified time points. Kaplan–Meier survival models were used to determine success rates over the study period.

Results

Six hundred twenty procedures were performed during the 3-year study period, of which 427 were PV and 193 VC. The mean follow-up was 31.8 months. Overall complete success (IOP ≤ 21 mmHg, without medication) at 3 years was achieved in 65.7% of patients, with qualified success (IOP ≤21 mmHg with or without medication) achieved in 96.0%. Subgroup analysis showed complete success rate of 76.0% for PV and 63.1% for VC (p = 0.005), with qualified success 95.9% for PV and 94.0% for VC (p = 0.668).

Mean pre-operative IOP (mmHg) for all procedures was 23.02 ± 5.6, with PV and VC subgroups at 22.54 ± 5.10 and 24.06 ± 6.45. Post-operatively IOP at month 12 and 36 was 14.74 ± 3.57 and 14.40 ± 3.17 respectively for all procedures, 14.62 ± 3.26 and 14.44 ± 3.10 for PV, and 15.03 ± 4.18 and 14.31 ± 3.33 for VC.

Across all procedures, pre-operatively an average of 3.05 ± 0.96 anti-glaucoma medications were used. This reduced to 0.13 ± 0.39 in 12 months and 0.38 + 0.71 by 36 months.

Sixty-five cases had complications due to trabeculo-Descemet window perforation during viscocanalostomy with 7 cases developing complications from the cataract element. In the 12.9% of patients who had complications there were no differences of IOP noted at 3 years.

Conclusion

VC and PV have good IOP lowering capacity and are both effective at sustaining a reduction in IOP at 3 years. PV achieved a higher success rate without medication. The low complication profile with reduced post-operative care means these procedures may be a preferred option for early surgical intervention.

Meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of combined surgery in the management of eyes with coexisting cataract and open angle glaucoma

AIM

To conduct a systematic review and quantitative Meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of combined surgery for the eyes with coexisting cataract and open angle glaucoma.

METHODS

We performed a systematic search of the related literature in the Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science databases, CNKI, CBM and Wan Fang databases, with no limitations on language or publication date. The primary efficacy estimate was identified by weighted mean difference of the percentage of intraocular pressure reduction (IOPR%) from baseline to end-point, the percentage of number of glaucoma medications reduction from pre- to post-operation, and the secondary efficacy evaluations were performed by odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for complete and qualified success rate. Besides, ORs were applied to assess the tolerability of adverse incidents. Meta-analyses of fixed or random effect models were performed using RevMan software 5.2 to gather the consequences. Heterogeneity was evaluated by Chi² test and the I² measure.

RESULTS

Ten studies enrolling 3108 patients were included. The combined consequences indicated that both glaucoma and combined cataract and glaucoma surgery significantly decreased IOP. For deep sclerectomy vs deep sclerectomy plus phacoemulsification and canaloplasty vs phaco-canaloplasty, the differences in IOPR% were not all statistically significant while trabeculotomy was detected to gain a quantitatively greater IOPR% compared with trabeculotomy plus phacoemulsification. Furthermore, there was no statistical significance in the complete and qualified success rate, and the rates of adverse incidents for trabeculotomy vs trabeculotomy plus phacoemulsification.

CONCLUSION

Compared with trabeculotomy plus phacoemulsification, trabeculectomy alone is more effective in lowering IOP and the number of glaucoma medications, while the two surgeries can not demonstrate statistical differences in the complete success rate, qualified success rate, or incidence of adverse incidents.

Clinical evaluation of aqueous outflow system in vivo and correlation with intraocular pressure before and after non-penetrating glaucoma surgery

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the aqueous outflow system through channelography with fluorescein during non-penetrating glaucoma surgery (canaloplasty or phacocanaloplasty) and find correlations with preoperative and postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP).

METHODS

Thirty-six patients (40 eyes) who had channelography while undergoing non-penetrating glaucoma surgery were included in this prospective study. Several parameters assessed during the channelography included: diffuse and superficial scleral staining, the number of visible superficial connections to collectors, trabecular permeability and number of micro-ruptures of the trabecular meshwork. IOP, the best-corrected visual acuity, the number of glaucoma medications was recorded at 1 day, 7 days, 3 months and 6 months after the operation.

RESULTS

The change in IOP at 6 months from baseline significantly correlated with the number of visible superficial connections to collectors (r = 0.4, p = 0.021). Eyes with canaloplasty showed a mean baseline IOP of 19.4 (4.9) mmHg and mean glaucoma medication usage of 2.9 (1.0), which decreased to 13.2 (3.1) mmHg with 0.3 (0.8) medications, respectively, at 6 months postoperatively (p < 0.001). Eyes with phacocanaloplasty surgery showed a mean baseline IOP of 28.2 (9.6) mmHg with 2.6 (0.9) mean drugs, which decreased to IOP of 12.8 (3.4) mmHg with 0.5 (0.8) medications at 6 months (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

A larger number of defined visible superficial connections to collectors after injection of fluorescein into SC is related to a more pronounced IOP decrease after non-penetrating glaucoma surgery.

[Canaloplasty : a new alternative in non-penetrating glaucoma surgery]

BACKGROUND

Canaloplasty provides a new option in non-penetrating glaucoma surgery. The aim of this study is to examine its early postsurgical safety and efficacy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective study of canaloplasties performed at our institution in 2009 (n=46, 13 of which were combined with cataract surgery). The mean follow-up was 6.0±3.4 months. The most important parameters examined were intraocular pressure (IOP), number of topical medications, postoperative complications, and required additional surgery.

RESULTS

Mean presurgical IOP: 18.2±5.8 mmHg on a mean of 2.3±1.2 applied topical medications. Mean postsurgical IOP: 12.3±5.1 mmHg at 3 months, 11.7±3.0 mmHg at 6 months, and 12.6±2.4 mmHg at 12 months. Number of postsurgical medications: 0.8±1.1 at 3 months, 1.2±1.3 at 6 months, and 1.0±1.1 at 12 months. The most frequent postoperative complications were transient hypotension (32.6%), bleb leakage (26.1%), and microhyphema (23.9%). Revision surgery was required in 8.7% of all patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Canaloplasty showed a good IOP-reducing effect. Complications occurred mostly temporarily and were of a controllable nature.

Three-year canaloplasty outcomes for the treatment of open-angle glaucoma: European study results

BACKGROUND

To report 3-year results investigating the safety and efficacy of canaloplasty, a procedure involving circumferential viscodilation of Schlemm's canal and tensioning of the inner canal wall to treat open-angle glaucoma.

METHODS

This was a prospective, multi-center, interventional study of 109 eyes of 109 adult, open-angle glaucoma patients undergoing canaloplasty or combined cataract-canaloplasty surgery. Qualifying preoperative intraocular pressures (IOP) were at least 16 mmHg with historical IOPs of at least 21 mmHg with or without medical therapy. A flexible microcatheter was used to viscodilate the full circumference of the canal and to place a trabecular tensioning suture. Primary outcome measures included IOP, glaucoma medication usage, and adverse events.

RESULTS

Eyes with canaloplasty showed a mean baseline IOP of 23.0 ± 4.3 mmHg and mean glaucoma medication usage of 1.9 ± 0.7 medications, which decreased to a mean IOP of 15.1 ± 3.1 mmHg on 0.9 ± 0.9 medications at 3 years postoperatively. Eyes with combined cataract-canaloplasty surgery showed a mean baseline IOP of 24.3 ± 6.0 mmHg on 1.5 ± 1.2 medications, which decreased to a mean IOP of 13.8 ± 3.2 mmHg on 0.5 ± 0.7 medications at 3 years. Intraocular pressure and medication use results for all study eyes were significantly decreased from baseline (p <0.00001) at all intervals. Late postoperative complications included cataracts (19.1%) and transient IOP elevation (1.8%).

CONCLUSIONS

Canaloplasty demonstrated significant and sustained IOP reductions accompanied by an excellent short- and long-term safety profile in adult patients with open-angle glaucoma.

Phacoviscocanalostomy in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma versus primary open-angle glaucoma

OBJECTIVE

To compare the outcome of phacoviscocanalostomy in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PEXG) versus that in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).

DESIGN

Prospective comparative study.

PARTICIPANTS

Sixty eyes of 60 patients who underwent phacoviscocanalostomy for cataract and medically uncontrolled PEXG (30 eyes) or POAG (30 eyes).

METHODS

Success rate was based on intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction and need for antiglaucoma medication. Visual acuity (VA) and complication rates were secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 19.7 months (range, 12-36 months). The mean IOP values in both groups were significantly less than the preoperative values at all postoperative intervals (p < 0.001). From 1 month onward, the decrease in IOP was more dramatic in PEXG eyes than in POAG eyes (p < 0.05). At last visit, the mean percentage of IOP reduction was 49.7% in the PEXG group and 30.9% in the POAG group. All study eyes required decreased antiglaucoma medications and showed improved VA postoperatively. Transient complications included Descemet's membrane microperforations, macroperforation, zonular dehiscence, and postoperative IOP spike. No eyes developed trabeculectomy-type bleb, hyphema, fibrin exudation, or bleb-related complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Phacoviscocanalostomy achieved excellent IOP control and VA improvement in both PEXG and POAG groups. PEXG demonstrated greater IOP reduction and fewer postoperative medications than POAG. The complication rate was low and did not affect surgical outcome. Phacoviscocanalostomy can be an effective and safe surgical alternative to phacotrabeculectomy in both groups of patients.

Modified deep sclerectomy (D-lectomy MMC) for primary open-angle glaucoma: preliminary results

PURPOSE

To evaluate the outcome of modified deep sclerectomy [D-lectomy mitomycin C (MMC)] for medically refractory glaucoma patients.

METHODS

In a retrospective comparative study, the surgical outcome in 1 eye each of 31 patients who underwent D-lectomy MMC was compared with that of 91 eyes of 91 patients who underwent trabeculectomy with adjunctive MMC. These eyes had a diagnosis of primary open-angle glaucoma or pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, a record of high intraocular pressure (IOP) exceeding 25 mm Hg, and planned for surgical intervention. In the D-lectomy MMC cases, a slit incision at the trabecular meshwork and peripheral iridectomy were created. The "lake" and trabeculo-Descemet membrane ("window") were examined by ultrasound biomicroscope, gonioscopy, and time-domain optical coherence tomography.

RESULTS

Postsurgical IOP at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the D-lectomy MMC and trabeculectomy MMC were comparable (P=0.63-0.97). The filtering bleb was noted in 14 (45%) of the 31 D-lectomy MMC eyes at 3 months, and their survival was significantly less than trabeculectomy MMC subjects in which 81 of 91 eyes had the bleb at 3 months (P<0.0001). The lake was noted in 29 of 31 D-lectomy MMC eyes. The sealing of the once penetrated trabecular meshwork was complete at 3 months in 23 of 29 eyes by ultrasound biomicroscopic and/or gonioscopic examinations, whereas that was incomplete in 6 eyes.

CONCLUSIONS

Addition of a slit incision to the trabecular meshwork and peripheral iridectomy (D-lectomy MMC) improved postsurgical IOP of the deep sclerectomy to the level comparable with trabeculectomy MMC, with a less frequency of the bleb formation.

Nonpenetrating glaucoma surgery

Nonpenetrating glaucoma surgeries have been developed in recent years in order to improve the safety of conventional filtering procedures. The goal of nonpenetrating filtering procedures is to reduce intraocular pressure by enhancing the natural aqueous outflow channels, while reducing outflow resistance located in the inner wall of the Schlemm's canal and the juxtacanalicular trabecular meshwork. In the last few years viscocanalostomy and deep sclerectomy with external trabeculectomy have become the most popular nonpenetrating filtering procedures. Both involve removal of a deep scleral flap, the external wall of Schlemm's canal and corneal stroma behind the anterior trabeculum and Descemet's membrane, thus creating an intrascleral space. The aqueous humour leaves the anterior chamber through the intact trabeculo-Descemet's membrane into the scleral space, from where it will egress into different pathways. The technique is associated with a long learning curve. Published clinical trials comparing nonpenetrating glaucoma surgery to full-thickness trabeculectomy have a consensus on the superior safety profile of nonpenetrating glaucoma surgery but are not in agreement when it comes to efficacy, where conflicting results have been found. This article reviews the nonpenetrating surgical techniques, mechanisms of action, indications, contraindications, complications, and results.

Combined viscocanalostomy-trabeculectomy for management of far-advanced glaucoma: evaluation of the early postoperative course

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To study the early postoperative efficacy and safety of combined viscocanalostomy with trabeculectomy (VISCO-TRAB) for treating far-advanced glaucoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with far-advanced glaucoma scheduled for glaucoma surgery were enrolled in the study. Surgery included viscocanalostomy until Schlemm's canal was deroofed and dilated with viscoelastic, followed by penetrating corneotrabeculectomy, peripheral iridectomy, and tight closure of lamellar flap. Patients with severe glaucoma who were treated with trabeculectomy only (TRAB) in the preceding year were used for comparison.

RESULTS

The study included 39 eyes in the VISCO-TRAB group and 40 eyes in the TRAB group. Mean intraocular pressure was significantly lower in the VISCO-TRAB group during the early postoperative period (P < .05). The postoperative course was less eventful in the VISCO-TRAB group with minimal hypotony or suture lysis-related complications.

CONCLUSION

During the early postoperative period, VISCO-TRAB proved efficacious and safe in reducing intraocular pressure to target levels in patients with far-advanced glaucoma.

SKGEL® implant versus T-Flux® implant in the contralateral eye in deep sclerectomy with phacoemulsification: long-term follow-up

Purpose:

To intraindividually compare the efficacy and safety of the SKGEL^® implant versus the T-Flux^® implant in deep sclerectomy.

Methods:

In a retrospective analysis 17 patients were identified who underwent combined phacoemulsification-deep sclerectomy and implantation of SKGEL^® in one eye and T-Flux^® in the contralateral eye.

Results:

In eyes with SKGEL^® the IOP decreased from 20.6+7.3 mm Hg to 14.8+5.3 mm Hg (-5.8 mm Hg or -28.1%), and in eyes with T-Flux^® from 19.9+7.2 mm Hg to 14.7+3.3 mm Hg (-5.2 mm Hg or -26.1%, no statistically significant difference, p >0.05). Antiglaucoma medications with either implant decreased from initially 2.0+0.8 to 0.3+0.7. A qualified success was found in 17/17 eyes with T-Flux^® and in 16/17 eyes with SKGEL^®. Complete success was achieved in 14/17 eyes with T-Flux^® and in 13/17 eyes with SKGEL^®.

Conclusions:

The IOP-lowering effect and safety of SKGEL^® and T-Flux^® seem to be comparable.

Results of combined phacoemulsification and viscocanalostomy in patients with cataract and pseudoexfoliative glaucoma

PURPOSE

Coexisting pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PEXG) and cataract represents a special challenge. Although phacotrabeculectomy is an effective procedure, it combines the risks of phacoemulsification and trabeculectomy. This study evaluates phacoviscocanalostomy to manage eyes with PEXG and cataract.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective noncomparative study that included 30 consecutive eyes of 22 patients with uncontrolled PEXG and cataract. Phacoviscocanalostomy was performed in all. Success rate based on postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction and requirement for topical antiglaucoma medication was evaluated as the main outcome measure. Visual acuity and complication rates were secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 18.6 months +/-6.2 (SD) (range 12 to 36 months). There was statistically significant decrease in mean IOP from 25.3+/-5.2 mmHg preoperatively to 13.5+/-6.0 mmHg 1 day after surgery (p< .05), 12.3+/-3.1 mmHg at the final follow-up (p< .05), and at all evaluations to the last postoperative visit. Only three eyes (10%) required a single antiglaucoma medication to achieve the target IOP. A complete surgical success (IOP <21 mmHg without medication) was achieved in 90%, while a qualified success (IOP <21 mmHg with or without glaucoma medication) was achieved in 100% of cases. Complications included Descemet membrane microperforations (13.3%), macroperforation (3.3%), zonular dehiscence (6.6%), and transient postoperative IOP spike (3.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

Phacoviscocanalostomy achieved excellent IOP control and visual acuity improvement in pseudoexfoliation patients with coexisting cataract and glaucoma. Complication rate was low and did not affect the surgical outcome.

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.

Randomized comparison of the intraocular pressure-lowering effect of phacoviscocanalostomy and phacotrabeculectomy

PURPOSE

To compare the intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering effect of combined viscocanalostomy and phacoemulsification and combined trabeculectomy and phacoemulsification with mitomycin C in eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma.

DESIGN

Prospective randomized 1-year trial.

PARTICIPANTS

Forty consecutive patients (40 eyes) with primary open-angle glaucoma and cataract.

INTERVENTION

Eyes were assigned randomly either to trabeculectomy with mitomycin C or to viscocanalostomy in combination with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Success rate based on IOP.

RESULTS

Mean baseline IOP was 24.0+/-2.0 mmHg in the viscocanalostomy group and 23.7+/-2.6 mmHg in the trabeculectomy group (P = 0.7). Mean postoperative IOP was 13.7+/-2.2 mmHg at 3 months, 14.8+/-3.3 mmHg at 6 months, and 14.9+/-3.0 mmHg at 12 months in the viscocanalostomy group and 12.1+/-4.0 mmHg at 3 months, 13.8+/-4.7 mmHg at 6 months, and 14.1+/-4.4 mmHg at 12 months in the trabeculectomy group. There was no significant difference in the mean IOP between the groups at any time. At 12 months, 17 patients (85%) in the viscocanalostomy group and 16 patients (80%) in the trabeculectomy group achieved an IOP of 20 mmHg or less without medication (P = 0.7). Complications included 2 cases (10%) of flat/shallow anterior chamber and 4 cases (20%) of hypotony in the trabeculectomy group, whereas intraoperative microperforation of Descemet's membrane occurred in 3 cases (15%) in the viscocanalostomy group.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no significant difference in IOP reduction between viscocanalostomy and trabeculectomy with mitomycin C in combination with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma.

Seven-year follow-up of combined cataract extraction and viscocanalostomy

PURPOSE

To investigate the long-term success and complications of phacoemulsification combined with viscocanalostomy (phacoviscocanalostomy) in eyes with coexisting cataract and medically uncontrolled glaucoma.

SETTING

Department of Ophthalmology, Warrington Hospital, Warrington, United Kingdom.

METHODS

A prospective nonrandomized study evaluated 165 consecutive eyes (114 patients) that had phacoviscocanalostomy. The main outcome measures were intraocular pressure (IOP), visual acuity, requirement for topical antiglaucoma medication, and the presence or absence of drainage blebs or bleb complications.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 38.7 months +/- 19.3 (SD) (range 12 to 90 months). There was a statistically significant decrease in IOP, from 24.1 +/- 5.1 mm Hg preoperatively to 13.8 +/- 8.1 mm Hg 1 day after surgery (P<.001), 16.0 +/- 4.1 mm Hg at 5 years (P<.001), and at all evaluations to the last follow-up. The mean number of medications per eye decreased significantly from 2.5 +/- 0.9 before surgery to 0.1 +/- 0.5 at last follow-up (P<.001). At the final follow-up, IOP was reduced by 33.2% (16.2 mm Hg versus 24.1 mm Hg). Complete success, defined as an IOP reduction of more than 30% from preoperative level without medications, was achieved in 48.5% of eyes, with 42% of eyes having an IOP of less than 16 mm Hg. The percentage fall in IOP was linearly related to the preoperative IOP level (P<.001). No eye developed a trabeculectomy-type bleb, and there were no bleb-related complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Phacoviscocanalostomy was safe and effective for the management of eyes with coexisting cataract and medically uncontrolled glaucoma. It provided a stable and sustained reduction in IOP with a minimum requirement for topical medication.

Phaco-viscocanalostomy versus Phaco-trabeculotomy

PURPOSE

To compare the surgical outcomes between phaco-viscocanalostomy and phaco-trabeculotomy in open-angle glaucoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In a nonrandomized, retrospective clinical study, 110 eyes underwent phaco-viscocanalostomy (VCS group), and 110 eyes underwent phaco-trabeculotomy (LOT group). The mean follow-up was 857+/-409 (+/-SD) days (P=0.4777).

RESULTS

The mean preoperative treated intraocular pressure (IOP) values were 20.2+/-3.5 mm Hg in the VCS group and 20.9+/-3.5 mm Hg in the LOT group (P=0.3377). The postoperative IOPs in the VCS group were 15.0+/-3.0 and 16.1+/-3.0 mm Hg at 1 and 3 years, and in the LOT group 16.3+/-2.9 mm Hg (P=0.0088) and 16.5+/-3.3 mm Hg (P=0.4993), respectively. The number of medications used in the VCS group was significantly lower than in the LOT group during the observation periods (P< or =0.0130). The probabilities of achieving IOPs< or =21 mm Hg at 3 years in the VCS group were 92.0% with or without mediations and 58.2% without medications, and were significantly better than those of the LOT group (84.7% and 36.0%, P=0.0334 and P<0.0001 by log-rank test, respectively). The probabilities of achieving IOPs< or =16 mm Hg at 3 years in the VCS group were 30.5% with or without mediations and 30.3% without medications, whereas those in the LOT group were 27.5% (P=0.1799) and 19.4% (P=0.0010), respectively. The visual outcome was similar between the groups. Postoperative hyphema (> or =2 mm) and IOP spikes (> or =30 mm Hg) occurred significantly less in the VCS group (2.7 and 3.6%, respectively) than in the LOT group (26.4 and 28.2%, respectively; P<0.0001). In 13 eyes (11.8%) of the LOT group, the highest IOP level was recorded 40 mm Hg or higher. Vitreous hemorrhage and central visual loss occurred in 1 case each in the LOT group.

CONCLUSIONS

After a middle-term observation, phaco-viscocanalostomy provides better IOP control and a lower incidence of vision-threatening complications than phaco-trabeculotomy.

Combined cataract and glaucoma surgery with mitomycin C: phacoemulsification-trabeculectomy compared to phacoemulsification-deep sclerectomy

AIMS

To compare outcomes of phacoemulsification combined with trabeculectomy (PT) or deep sclerectomy (PDS) with intraoperative mitomycin C (MMC) application.

METHODS

Non-randomised, consecutive, retrospective comparative study. 97 eyes of 97 patients (59 PDS, 38 PT) undergoing combined surgery with intraoperative MMC (0.1-0.4 mg/ml for 1-3 minutes) were identified for inclusion in the study.

RESULTS

The probability of maintaining intraocular pressure (IOP) below 19 mm Hg and 15 mm Hg, with a 30% drop from preoperative IOP and without additional medication, 1 year after surgery were 77.6% (95% CI: 67 to 90) and 71.5% (60 to 85) for the PDS group and 89.5% (80 to 99) and 89.5 (80 to 99) for the PT group, respectively, and these differences were not statistically significant (p>0.05, log rank test). After excluding ocular co-morbidity no differences were observed in the improvement of visual acuity between the two groups. There were no major differences in the complication rates except that delayed bleb leaks were seen in seven eyes (18.4%) of the PT group (p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

In this study, no statistically significant difference was found in the IOP and visual outcomes between PDS and PT. A significantly higher frequency of late bleb leaks after PT was observed.

Does the Adjunctive Peeling of Juxtacanalicular Tissue Affect the Outcome of Two-Site Phaco-Viscocanalostomy?

PURPOSE

To compare the surgical outcomes of combined corneal-incision cataract surgery and viscocanalostomy (phaco-VCS) with or without the adjunctive peeling of juxtacanalicular tissue (JCT) in 136 patients of open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

METHODS

In a prospective clinical trial, 63 eyes underwent phaco-VCS (Peeling (-) group), and 73 eyes underwent phaco-VCS with the peeling of JCT (Peeling (+) group). The postoperative IOP, the probability of successful IOP reduction without medications, and postoperative complications were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative IOP of 19.9 +/- 3.3 (+/-SD) mm Hg in the Peeling (-) group decreased significantly to 13.9 +/- 6.8 at 3 days, 14.6 +/- 3.1 at 12 months, and 15.5 +/- 2.3 mm Hg at 24 months. The IOP of 20.2 +/- 3.2 mm Hg in the Peeling (+) group decreased significantly to 11.4 +/- 5.1 at 3 days, 14.9 +/- 3.0 at 12 months, and 15.9 +/- 2.1 mm Hg at 24 months. There was no significant difference in IOP levels between the two groups (P >/= 0.1512) except for the IOP level at 3 postoperative days (P = 0.0265). The probabilities of achieving IOPs without medications under 21 mm Hg and 15 mm Hg at 24 months in the Peeling (-) groups were 61.0% and 10.4%, and those in the Peeling (+) group were 61.7% and 23.9% (P >/= 0.4389). The incidences of IOP spike more than 30 mm Hg (7.9%) and fibrin formation (15.8%) in the Peeling (-) group were higher than in the Peeling (+) group (0%; P = 0.0195, 5.5%; P = 0.1907). Slit-lamp microscopic hyphema, which included red blood cells in the anterior chamber was observed in about half, and bleb formation more than 1 month was less than 5% in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative IOPs were significantly decreased in both groups. Although the peeling of JCT was not enhanced in long-term reduction of the IOP, it lowered IOP at postoperative 3 days and the incidence of IOP spike. The adjunctive procedure would be beneficial to glaucoma patients in phaco-VCS.

Surgical strategies in patients with cataract and glaucoma

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review analyzes the most relevant studies on current surgical strategies to treat glaucoma patients with cataracts.

RECENT FINDINGS

No clear evidence has confirmed better results with trabeculectomy alone compared with phacotrabeculectomy. Recent studies have reported successful outcomes combining deep sclerectomy and two-site phacoemulsification. The phacoemulsification cataract extraction will not vary the intraocular pressure of patients with previous deep sclerectomy. Mitomycin C proved to be effective in maintaining lower pressure levels with the combined surgery technique; however, 5-fluorouracil did not show any improvement. Minimally invasive cataract surgery reduces surgical trauma, making it possible to obtain better results with combined surgery and previous glaucoma surgery.

SUMMARY

The surgical strategy decision must be customized to every patient. Only filtering surgeries are recommended in glaucoma patients with incipient cataract. Combined surgical procedures are recommended for progressive or advanced glaucoma. Two-site phacotrabeculectomy with mitomycin C achieves better stabilized results; however, combined phacoemulsification with deep sclerectomy or viscocanalostomy achieves similar results with a lower rate of complications. These promising findings need more study to be confirmed.

Deep sclerectomy augmented with mitomycin C

AIMS

To investigate the comparative efficacy and safety of deep sclerectomy with and without intraoperative mitomycin C (MMC) application for lowering the intraocular pressure (IOP).

METHODS

A total of 71 eyes of 71 consecutive patients who had routine deep sclerectomy (DS), nonaugmented (DS-noMMC) or with mitomycin C (DS-MMC) augmentation (0.2 mg/ml for 2 min) and follow-up of 4 months or more were identified from an ongoing prospective database on glaucoma surgery. Indications for MMC use were the presence of risk factors for subconjunctival scarring and low target IOPs. MMC 0.2 mg/ml was applied in the sub-Tenons space for 2 min.

RESULTS

There were 19 eyes in the DS-noMMC group and 52 eyes in the DS-MMC group. In 11 eyes (15.5%), the procedure was complicated by intraoperative perforation of the trabeculo-Descemet's window. Eyes in the DS-MMC group had significantly lower IOPs (MANOVA, P = 0.04). Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis showed that the probability of maintaining IOP below target IOP level, below 18 mmHg and below 14 mmHg at 1 year was 51, 67, and 35% for the DS-noMMC group and 80, 86, and 74% for the DS-MMC group. The survival rates of the DS-MMC group were not statistically significant (P = 0.06) when the success criterion was maintaining an IOP less than 18 mmHg but were significant for the other criteria, namely IOP less than target levels (P = 0.03) and less than 14 mmHg (P = 0.03). Nd:YAG goniopuncture to lower IOP to target levels was done more frequently in the DS-noMMC group (13 eyes, 81%) than the DS-MMC group (20 eyes, 45%) and this difference was significant (P = 0.03). The prevalence of avascular areas within filtration blebs and transconjunctival oozing of aqueous was significantly higher in the DS-MMC group (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of intraoperative MMC during deep sclerectomy has a significant effect on the postoperative IOP and increases the probability of achieving target IOPs. However, our current technique of MMC application is associated with a higher incidence of avascular blebs and transconjunctival oozing.

Primary viscocanalostomy versus trabeculectomy for primary open-angle glaucoma

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy and safety of viscocanalostomy and trabeculectomy in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).

SETTING

Department of Ophthalmology, Ankara Education and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey.

METHODS

In this prospective randomized trial, 50 eyes of 50 patients with medically uncontrolled POAG were randomized to have a trabeculectomy (25 eyes) or a viscocanalostomy (25 eyes). Visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), and slitlamp examinations were performed before surgery and 1 day, 1 week, 1, 3, and 6 months, and 1, 2, and 3 years postoperatively.

RESULTS

At 3 years, the mean IOP was 16.0 mmHg +/- 7.07 (SD) in the trabeculectomy group and 17.8 +/- 4.6 mmHg in the viscocanalostomy group (P=.694). Complete success (IOP 6 to 21 mm Hg without medication) was achieved in 66.2% of eyes at 6 months and 55.1% at 3 years in the trabeculectomy group and in 52.9% and 35.3%, respectively, in the viscocanalostomy group (P>.05). Qualified success (IOP 6 to 21 mmHg with medication) was achieved in 95.8% of eyes at 6 months and 79.2% at 3 years in the trabeculectomy group and in 90.7% and 73.9%, respectively, in the viscocanalostomy group (P>.05). Postoperative hypotony and cataract formation occurred more frequently in the trabeculectomy group than in the viscocanalostomy group (P=.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Primary trabeculectomy lowered IOP more than viscocanalostomy in POAG patients. However, the complication rate was lower in the viscocanalostomy group.

Concave trabeculo-Descemet's membrane as an early sign of viscocanalostomy failure

PURPOSE

To correlate trabeculo-Descemet's membrane (TDM) changes with a late rise in intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with successful viscocanalostomy.

SETTING

Consultores Oftalmológicos, Hospital Oftalmológico Santa Lucía, and Centro de Estudios Médicos e Investigación, Buenos Aires, Argentina.

METHODS

Patients who had a viscocanalostomy between July 1998 and September 2001 were retrospectively studied. Gonioscopy was performed in all patients. A subgroup of patients who had a late increase in IOP and were successfully treated with neodymium:YAG (Nd:YAG) laser goniopuncture were studied to correlate gonioscopic findings. Ultrasound biomicroscopy was performed in 10 cases. Intraocular pressure measurements were taken before viscocanalostomy and before and after Nd:YAG treatment.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight eyes of 48 patients had a viscocanalostomy to control IOP. Twenty-six eyes had a late increase in IOP and were successfully treated with Nd:YAG laser goniopuncture. Before goniopuncture, 17 eyes (65.30%) had a concave TDM. The mean IOP in these patients increased from 14.27 mm Hg to 18.73 mm Hg (range 14 to 27 mm Hg). Goniopuncture was performed a mean of 10.7 months (range 1 to 36 months) after surgery. After Nd:YAG treatment, the TDM was flat in all patients who had a concave TDM before treatment. At the last examination, the mean IOP was 13.8 mm Hg, a mean decrease of 52.24% from the baseline preoperative IOP; 61.5% of eyes had a final IOP of 14.0 mm Hg or lower.

CONCLUSIONS

A concave TDM was associated with a late IOP rise. The TDM was flat after laser goniopuncture and normalization of IOP.

Combined Viscocanalostomy and Cataract Surgery Compared with Cataract Surgery in Japanese Patients with Glaucoma

PURPOSE

To compare intraocular pressure (IOP) and the incidence of complications after combined viscocanalostomy and cataract surgery with cataract surgery alone in 206 Japanese eyes with POAG or OH.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In a nonrandomized comparative, clinical study, 103 eyes underwent viscocanalostomy and cataract surgery (VCS group), and 103 eyes underwent cataract surgery alone (CSA group) (follow-up, 6-24 months). Reductions in IOP and medications, the probability of successful IOP reduction visual acuity changes, and complications were compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

The reductions in IOP and number of medications in the VCS group were significantly greater than in the CSA group (P < or = 0.0038 and P < or = 0.0259, respectively). The probabilities of achieving IOPs less than 21, 18, and 15 mm Hg at 24 months in the VCS groups were 85.0%, 53.6%, and 17.2% with medications, and 61.1%, 43.9%, and 16.2% without medications, and significantly better than in the CSA group (P < 0.0002). The visual outcomes were similar in both groups. Postoperative complications such as hyphema and fibrin formation, although more frequent in the VCS group, were not vision threatening.

CONCLUSION

Combined viscocanalostomy and cataract surgery provides good postoperative visual acuity with minimal complications and significantly greater IOP reduction than cataract surgery alone for Japanese patients with glaucoma.

Surgical strategies in patients with combined cataract and glaucoma

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In the elderly population, the combined presence of cataract and glaucoma is a frequent condition. In this situation, several surgical options are possible: cataract surgery only and later maybe trabeculectomy, trabeculectomy only and later maybe cataract surgery, or combined cataract and glaucoma surgery. This review compares the different surgical options on the basis of their achievable postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) level and success and complication rates.

RECENT FINDINGS

The impression of better IOP regulation with trabeculectomy than with phacotrabeculectomy has been recently confirmed by an evidence-based review. Contrary to this finding, the success of deep sclerectomy or trabeculotomy does not seem to be compromised by simultaneous phacoemulsification. In eyes with previous glaucoma-filtering surgery, cataract surgery with clear corneal incision has no effect on mean IOP but increases the 3-year failure probability. For phacotrabeculectomy, moderate evidence of a beneficial effect of MMC on IOP regulation and only weak evidence for separating the incisions has been recently reported by another evidence-based review.

SUMMARY

The choice of the preferred surgical method depends on the target pressure, the amount of glaucomatous damage, and the grade of visual disturbance caused by the cataract. Phacotrabeculectomy combined with mitomycin C achieves the best IOP lowering of all types of combined cataract and glaucoma surgery currently possible but is associated with potentially sight-threatening complications. In the absence of a low target pressure, phacotrabeculotomy or the combination of phacoemulsification with viscocanalostomy or deep sclerectomy may be the therapy of choice.

Comparison of outcomes of viscocanalostomy and phacoviscocanalostomy

BACKGROUND

Many adults who undergo glaucoma filtering surgery also need surgical treatment of coexisting cataract. Recent reports of the use of new alternative non-penetrating techniques in combination with phacoemulsification have given encouraging results. The purpose of this study was to compare the safety and efficacy of viscocanalostomy and phacoviscocanalostomy in the management of medically uncontrolled open-angle glaucoma.

METHODS

Twenty patients who underwent phacoviscocanalostomy in one eye each were enrolled in the study. Twenty matching patients who underwent viscocanalostomy in one eye each at our institution were selected as the control group. Postoperative reductions in intraocular pressure (IOP) and number of antiglaucoma medications were compared between the groups. Visual acuity and complications were secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

Significant reductions of IOP and of use of antiglaucoma medication occurred in both groups (p < 0.05); these results were comparable in the two groups (p > 0.05). The mean IOP reduction was 34% in the eyes that underwent viscocanalostomy alone and 38% in the eyes that underwent phacoviscocanalostomy. The success rates of the two procedures were also comparable (p > 0.05). In the combined-surgery group the best-corrected visual acuity improved by 2 or more lines in 18 eyes (90%). Intraoperative complications did not occur in either group.

INTERPRETATION

Combining phacoemulsification with viscocanalostomy did not have a negative effect on the IOP control achieved by viscocanalostomy alone and did not increase the complication rate. Phacoviscocanalostomy was safe and effective in the surgical management of eyes with both glaucoma and cataract.