Efficacy and safety of contact transscleral diode laser cyclophotocoagulation for advanced glaucoma

Outcomes of slow coagulation transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in a predominantly African American glaucoma population

Purpose

To evaluate outcomes of slow coagulation transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (SC-TSCPC) in a primarily African American patient population with glaucoma.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed for 104 consecutive cases of SC-TSCPC by a single surgeon between November 6, 2019-September 7, 2023. Power ranged from 1150 to 1500 mW, duration was 4 s, and number of spots ranged from 10 to 25. Exclusion criteria were diagnosis of neovascular glaucoma, prior CPC, visual acuity (VA) of no light perception or unable to be assessed due to patient's mental status, aphakia, or follow-up <3 months. The primary outcome measure was surgical success defined as an intraocular pressure (IOP) of 6-21 mmHg with a ≥20 % reduction from baseline, no glaucoma re-operation, and no loss of light-perception. Secondary outcome measures included VA, glaucoma medication use, and post-surgical complications. Analysis was also stratified by lens status as literature suggests a greater IOP-lowering effect in pseudophakic eyes after CPC.

Results

There were 28 eligible patients (6 phakic, 22 pseudophakic) included in this analysis. Mean follow-up was 11.6 ± 8.3 months, and 14 patients had postoperative year 1 data available. The mean age was 75.2 ± 13.9 years, 42.9 % were female, and 92.9 % were African American, reflective of the demographics of the local community. The cumulative success rate was 68.5 % at 1 year and did not differ significantly between phakic and pseudophakic patients. Mean VA worsened from 20/600 preoperatively to 20/1050 at last follow-up (P = 0.04) and was marginally worse in the phakic group (P = 0.15). Mean IOP decreased from 31.1 ± 13.2 mmHg on 4.0 ± 1.5 medications preoperatively to 13.8 ± 7.1 mmHg on 2.6 ± 1.5 medications at last follow-up (P < 0.001; P < 0.01), with a more pronounced effect among pseudophakic patients. 85.7 % of patients had prolonged anterior chamber (AC) inflammation beyond 1 month, which persisted in 10.7 % at last follow-up. The cystoid macular edema (CME) rate was 21.4 %, with 10.7 % persistent at last follow-up.

Conclusions

SC-TSCPC is an effective, non-incisional IOP-lowering procedure in phakic and pseudophakic eyes that may not otherwise be ideal candidates for incisional glaucoma surgery. Pseudophakic eyes may experience larger reductions in IOP, however, laser settings can be titrated on a case-by-case basis depending on individual patients' goals. There was a higher incidence of prolonged AC inflammation and CME in our cohort compared to similar studies which report rates of 12.7 % and 2.7 %, respectively. Although the significance of such complications may differ based on the visual potential of each patient, these findings support existing literature that African American patients can have greater incidence of inflammation and subsequent sequalae after ocular surgery.

Real-world outcomes of micropulse transscleral laser therapy in glaucoma patients: Efficacy of initial and repeated treatment, transient intraocular pressure spikes

Purpose

To investigate the clinical outcomes of micropulse transscleral laser therapy (MP-TLT) in a cohort of glaucoma patients, including safety profile, post-operative transient intraocular pressure (IOP) spikes, long-term efficacy and prognostic factors in terms of IOP-lowering.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational cohort study. Medical records of all patients who consecutively underwent MP-TLT between May 2019 and February 2023 at a tertiary referral centre were scrutinised and relevant data were retrospectively analysed.

Results

A total of 131 patients (138 eyes) with a mean age of 73.2 ± 14.2 years were included. Mean pre-interventional IOP was 24.1 ± 9.1 mmHg. Within 6-12 h following the intervention on the same day, an IOP spike was regularly observed, reaching on average 31.7 ± 10.3 mmHg (p < 0.001 to baseline). Two years after the intervention, mean IOP was 16.1 ± 5.6 mmHg (p < 0.005 to baseline). In 18 eyes, the treatment was repeated, and the IOP lowering effect was more durable after the second intervention compared to the first one (Cox-Mantel test, p=<0.005). Apart from the transient post-interventional IOP spikes, no severe complications were observed.

Conclusions

MP-TLT is associated with significant IOP spikes in the first post-operative hours. Thus, close post-interventional IOP monitoring or even preventive (additional) IOP-lowering treatment may be considered. In the long term, the procedure yields favourable outcomes in terms of safety and IOP reduction. Repeated MP-TLT treatment, if necessary, seems to achieve more sustained IOP reduction than the initial treatment.

Long-Term Results of Transscleral Diode Laser Cyclophotocoagulation in Glaucoma: A Real-Life Study

PRCIS

Transscleral diode laser cyclophotocoagulation (TDLC) is effective and safe in a large population and different types of glaucoma but is least effective in the neovascular glaucoma (NVG) group.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes of TDLC in a large cohort of patients with different types of refractory glaucoma.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Using patient charts, we retrospectively analyzed the success and complications of TDLC performed on eyes categorized into 6 groups: primary glaucoma (116 eyes), trauma (41 eyes), NVG (84 eyes), post-vitreoretinal surgery (post-VRS, 79 eyes), penetrating keratoplasty (47 eyes), and miscellaneous (40 eyes). Failure was defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) >22 mm Hg or <5 mm Hg, the need for further glaucoma surgery, and the loss of light perception during follow-up.

RESULTS

Overall, the mean follow-up time was 33.4 ± 17.4 months, the mean total energy delivered was 109.2 ± 56.5 J, and the mean IOP reduction rate was 41.8%. Total energy delivered and IOP reduction rates were similar between the groups (all P > 0.05). The probability of success at 36 months was 71.5%, 70.7%, 55.9%, 77.2%, 72.3%, and 72.5% in primary glaucoma, trauma, NVG, post-VRS, penetrating keratoplasty, and miscellaneous groups, respectively. The NVG group showed a significantly lower success rate ( P = 0.009) than the other groups. Significant complications consisted of phthisis bulbi in 1 eye (0.2%) in the NVG group and chronic hypotony in 7 eyes (1.7%) in the NVG (3 eyes), trauma (2 eyes), post-VRS (1 eye), and primary glaucoma (1 eye) groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Although TDLC was found to be a safe, effective method in the long term, it was least effective in eyes with NVG.

Cyclodiode vs micropulse transscleral laser treatment

BACKGROUND

Continuous-wave transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (CW-TSCP) is usually reserved for advanced/refractory glaucoma. Micropulse transscleral laser therapy (MPTLT) utilises short energy pulses separated by 'off'-periods. MPTLT is postulated to have fewer complications, but its relative efficacy is not known. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has deemed the evidence supporting MPTLT use of inadequate quality, limiting its use to research. This study aims to evaluate MPTLT efficacy and safety compared to CW-TSCP.

METHODS

This 24-month follow-up retrospective audit included 85 CW-TSCP and 173 MPTLT eyes at a London tertiary referral centre. Primary outcome was success rate at the last follow-up; defined as at least 20% intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction with the same/fewer medications, and IOP between 6 and 18 mmHg. Secondary outcomes were acetazolamide use and success rates per glaucoma type. Safety outcomes were reported as complication rates.

RESULTS

By 24-months, mean IOP reduced from 34.6[±1.4]mmHg to 19.0[ ± 3.0]mmHg post-CW-TSCP (p < 0.0001); and from 26.1[±0.8]mmHg to 19.1[±2.2]mmHg post-MPTLT (p < 0.0001). Average IOP decreased by 45.1% post-CW-TSCP, and 26.8% post-MPTLT. Both interventions reduced medication requirements (p ≤ 0.05). More CW-TSCP patients discontinued acetazolamide (p = 0.047). Overall success rate was 26.6% for CW-TSCP and 30.6% for MPTLT (p = 0.83). Only primary closed-angle glaucoma saw a significantly higher success rate following CW-TSCP (p = 0.014). CW-TSCP complication rate was significantly higher than MPTLT (p = 0.0048).

CONCLUSION

Both treatments significantly reduced IOP and medication load. CW-TSCP had a greater absolute/proportionate IOP-lowering effect, but it carried a significantly greater risk of sight-threatening complications. Further prospective studies are required to evaluate MPTLT compared to CW-TSCP.

Efficacy of a novel low-cost torchlight transcorneal transillumination for diode laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in adult glaucoma

PURPOSE

To study the outcomes of diode laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (TSCPC) with trans-corneal transillumination using a novel low-cost torchlight method in refractory glaucoma.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This prospective interventional study included patients with refractory glaucoma who underwent TSCPC with trans-corneal transillumination (TSCPC-TI) using a novel low-cost torchlight method. Patients completing a minimum 6-month follow-up were analyzed. They were compared to a historical control group of patients who underwent TSCPC without transillumination (TSCPC-No TI) at 6-month follow-up period. We analyzed the mean laser energy delivered, post-laser intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction, number of antiglaucoma medications (AGM), the requirement of retreatment and complications of the procedure in both groups.

RESULTS

32 eyes of 29 patients comprised the TSCPC-TI group and were compared with 39 eyes of 37 patients in the TSCPC-No TI group. The TSCPC-TI group required lower energy than the TSCPC-No TI group (46.15 ± 22.8 Vs 80.65 ± 56.1 J p < 0.001). At 6-month follow-up, the TSCPC-TI group required lesser AGM for IOP control (2.33 ± 1.02 vs 3.02 ± 1.32 p = 0.01). There was a significantly reduced dependence of oral acetazolamide in the TSCPC-TI group at 6 months follow-up (15.6% vs 41% p = 0.03%). The success and response rates were 71.8% Vs 23.1%; p < 0.0001 and 87.5% Vs 51.2%; p = 0.001 significantly high in the TSCPC-TI group. The TSCPC-No TI group had a significantly high failure rate (12.5% Vs 48.2% p = 0.001). Hypotony (n = 1) and phthisis (n = 2) were noted TSCPC-No TI group.

CONCLUSIONS

TSCPC with transillumination with a low-cost torchlight resulted in a more efficient and effective cycloablation than TSCPC without transillumination.

Diode Laser Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation With a Novel Low-Cost Torchlight Method of Trans-Corneal Transillumination in Refractory Pediatric Glaucoma

PRCIS

Trans-corneal transillumination (TI) aided transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (TSCPC) for intraocular pressure control of refractory pediatric glaucoma was found to be effective at 1 year.

PURPOSE

To study 1-year outcomes of diode laser TSCPC with trans-corneal TI using a novel low-cost torchlight method in refractory pediatric glaucoma.

METHODS

This prospective interventional study included children with refractory glaucoma who underwent TSCPC with the Oculight laser system (IRIS Medical Instruments) with trans-corneal TI (TSCPC-TI) using a novel low-cost torchlight method. Children completing a minimum 1-year follow-up were analyzed. They were compared with a historical control group of children who underwent TSCPC without TI (TSCPC-No-TI) at the 1-year follow-up period. We analyzed the mean laser energy delivered, post-laser intraocular pressure reduction, number of antiglaucoma medications (AGM), the requirement of retreatment and complications of the procedure in both groups.

RESULTS

Forty-two eyes of 35 patients comprised the TSCPC-TI group and were compared with 31 eyes of 21 patients in the TSCPC-No-TI group. The TSCPC-TI group required lower energy than the TSCPC-No-TI group (24.7±7.8 J vs. 47.2±10.9 J, P <0.0001). Mean topical antiglaucoma drug requirement decreased from 2.9±0.08 before treatment to 0.66±0.8 at the end of 1 year in TSCPC-TI and from 2.6±1.0 before treatment to 0.6±0.77 in the TSCPC-No-TI groups, respectively ( P =0.15). There was a significantly reduced dependence of oral acetazolamide in the TSCPC-TI group at 1-year follow-up [5.7% vs. 61.9%, respectively ( P <0.001%)]. No adverse event of hypotony or choroidal detachment was noted in any group.

CONCLUSIONS

TSCPC aided by TI with a low-cost torchlight for pediatric refractory glaucoma was found to be effective at 1 year in reducing intraocular pressure and the burden of medication.

Safety and efficacy of micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation: 2-year follow-up in a tertiary Canadian centre

OBJECTIVE

To describe the long-term results of patients undergoing micropulse cyclophotocoagulation (MPCPC).

METHODS

Retrospective review of patients undergoing MPCPC with 1 surgeon between July 2016 and January 2017. Data collected included preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP), number of medications, daily acetazolamide use, and whether inferior, superior, or circumferential MPCPC was performed. This was assessed at postoperative week 1 and postoperative months 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24.

RESULTS

A total of 49 patients undergoing MPCPC with 2-year follow-up data was included. Ages ranged from 20 to 91 years (mean age, 69 years; 50% female). Following MPCPC, IOP was significantly lower at all points of follow-up (p < 0.05). At 2-year follow-up, the average IOP was 15 mm Hg (35% reduction). Six patients remained on acetazolamide (average daily dose, 333 mg). Average number of medications had decreased to 2.6 (p > 0.05). No significant structural complications occurred, but 53% required repeat MPCPC applications. The most common complication was failure requiring a secondary IOP-lowering surgical procedure. This occurred in 33% of patients. Subsequent glaucoma surgeries included gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy, iStent, Xen glaucoma implant, and Ahmed glaucoma valve.

CONCLUSIONS

MPCPC was successful in reducing IOP in conjunction with a nonsignificant reduction in topical glaucoma medications. However, a large proportion of patients required repeat micropulse applications or invasive glaucoma surgery to achieve IOP control. These results suggest that the clinical efficacy of MPCPC may be lower than that reported in the literature.

Outcomes of microPulse transscleral laser therapy in eyes with prior glaucoma aqueous tube shunt

PURPOSE

To evaluate the outcomes of micropulse transscleral laser therapy (MP-TLT) in patients with uncontrolled glaucoma and prior glaucoma aqueous tube shunt.

METHODS

In this single‑center, retrospective, interventional case series, eyes that underwent MP-TLT and had prior glaucoma aqueous tube shunt surgeries were included. The Cyclo Glaucoma Laser System (IRIDEX Corporation, Mountain View, CA, USA) with the MicroPulse P3 probe (version 1) was used. Post‑operative data were collected at day 1, week 1, and months 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30 and 36.

RESULTS

A total of 84 eyes (84 patients) with mean age of 65.8 ± 15.2 years and with advanced glaucoma (baseline mean deviation -16.25 ± 6.80 dB and best-corrected visual acuity 0.82 ± 0.83 logMar) were included in the study. Baseline mean IOP was 19.95 ± 5.6 mm Hg with a mean number of medications 3.39 ± 1.02. There were statistically significant differences in IOP between baseline and all follow-up visits (p < 0.01 for all). The mean percentage of IOP reduction between baseline and different follow-up visits ranged from 23.4% to 35.5% (p < 0.01). There was a significant reduction of visual acuity (≥ 2-lines) at 1 year (30.3%) and 2 years (76.78%). There was a statistically significant reduction in the number of glaucoma medications between baseline and all follow-up visits after postoperative week 1 (p < 0.05 for all). No severe complications including persistent hypotony and related complications were observed. At the last follow-up visit, only 24 (28%) eyes out of 84 eyes remained in the study.

CONCLUSION

MP-TLT is an effective treatment for reducing IOP and decreasing the number of medications in patients with advanced glaucoma and prior glaucoma aqueous tube shunt.

Postoperative Pain after Different Transscleral Laser Cyclophotocoagulation Procedures

BACKGROUND

As the number of surgical options in glaucoma treatment is continuously rising, evidence regarding distinctive features of these surgeries is becoming more and more important for clinicians to choose the right surgical treatment for each individual patient.

METHODS

For this retrospective data analysis, we included glaucoma patients treated with either continuous wave (CW-TSCPC) or micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MP-TSCPC) in an inpatient setting. Pain intensity was assessed using a numeric rating scale (NRS) ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst imaginable pain) during hospitalization. CW-TSCPC was performed using OcuLight^® Six (IRIDEX Corporation, Mountain View, CA, USA) and MP-TSCPC was performed using the IRIDEX^® Cyclo-G6 System (IRIDEX Corporation, Mountain View, CA, USA).

RESULTS

A total of 243 consecutive cases of TSCPC were included. Of these, 144 (59.26%) were treated with CW-TSCPC and 99 (40.74%) with MP-TSCPC. Using the univariable model, the risk for postoperative pain was observed to be lower in MP-TSCPC compared with CW-TSCPC (unadjusted: OR 0.46, 95% CI 0.24-0.84, p = 0.017), but this did not hold using the multivariable model (adjusted: OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.27-1.02, p = 0.056). Simultaneously conducted anterior retinal cryotherapy was associated with a higher risk for postoperative pain (OR 4.41, 95% CI 2.01-9.69, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that the occurrence of postoperative pain was not different in CW-TSCPC compared with MP-TSCPC in a multivariable model. In cases of simultaneous anterior retinal cryotherapy, the risk for postoperative pain was significantly higher.

Assessment of the Effectiveness of Glaucoma Treatment Using MicroPulse Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation in Patients with Glaucoma Who Have Previously Undergone Vitreoretinal Surgery

INTRODUCTION

This retrospective study aimed to assess the effectiveness of using MicroPulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (µP-TSCPC) in patients who had previously undergone pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), depending on the endotamponade used.

METHODS

For the study, a total of 60 patients were enrolled who underwent PPV followed by tμP-TSCPC as a result of an increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) over the norm of 21 mmHg. In this group of patients, 20 received silicone oil endotamponade during PPV, 20 received sulfur hexafluoride gas SF6, and in another 20 a differentiated balanced salt solution (BSS) was used.

RESULTS

The main indications for conducting PPV were (1) retinal detachment (silicone oil endotamponade was used; n = 12); (2) dislocation/subluxation of the patient's own or artificial intraocular lens (balanced salt solution (BSS) endotamponade was used; n = 11); (3) the presence of an epiretinal membrane and/or a macular hole (BSS endotamponade was used; n = 9, or SF6; n = 20); and (4) hemorrhage into the vitreous chamber (silicone oil endotamponade was used; n = 8).

CONCLUSION

The choice of endotamponade used during PPV was not found to determine the effectiveness of µP-TSCPC treatment. The effectiveness of µP-TSCPC in patients after PPV depended, above all, on the etiology of the disease, for which PPV was previously performed. The lowest effectiveness of µP-TSCPC was noted in cases where the reason for conducting PPV was hemorrhage into the vitreous chamber and silicone oil endotamponade was used, while the highest effectiveness was noted in cases where PPV was conducted owing to the presence of an epiretinal membrane and/or a macular hole and SF6 endotamponade was used.

Low-dose transscleral cyclophotocoagulation with subsequent phacoemulsification in the treatment of prolonged acute primary angle closure

BACKGROUND

To explore the outcomes and mechanisms of intraocular pressure (IOP) control using low-dose transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (LDTSCP) followed by phacoemulsification in patients with prolonged acute primary angle closure (APAC).

METHODS

Patients with prolonged APAC refractory to all other treatment modalities were prospectively recruited, and underwent LDTSCP (10 shots, 2 s duration, 120° treatment with the energy starting at 1500 mW and titrated to the level with audible burst but not exceeding 2000 mW) and anterior chamber paracentesis 1 week prior to phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation and viscogoniosynechiolysis. Postoperative IOP, vision, anatomic changes on anterior segment optical coherence tomography and complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Twenty eyes with prolonged APAC were recruited. Median follow-up was 12 months (range 9-18), at which point the vision in all eyes had improved and IOP was ≤17 mm Hg on no antiglaucoma medications. Following LDTSCP at postoperative day (POD) 1, IOP decreased in all eyes to a median 15 mm Hg (range: 6-28 mm Hg). Post-LDTSCP supraciliary effusion (SCE) occurred in 90% of eyes on POD1 or POD7 and ciliary body defect (CBD) was detected in 30% of eyes and resolved in all cases by postoperative month 1. Lower post-LDTSCP IOP was associated with more number of bursts (r=-0.558, p=0.011) and higher grade of SCE (r=-0.877, p<0.001), but not with total energy (p=0.240). Eyes with CBD (p=0.018) and a higher number of bursts (r=0.657, p=0.002) had higher grade SCE.

CONCLUSIONS

LDTSCP-induced SCE may explain the post-LDTSCP IOP reduction seen in eyes with prolonged APAC. LDTSCP instead of traditional more extensive treatment, was sufficient to provide a relatively safe and effective bridge therapy prior to phacoemulsification.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Chinese Clinical Trials Registry (ChiCTR1900023567).

Neovascular Glaucoma: An Update

Neovascular glaucoma (NVG) is a severe type of secondary glaucoma with devastating complications and generally poor visual prognosis. NVG is defined by the development of pathological neovessels over the iris and the iridocorneal angle that can block the outflow of aqueous humor, causing elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP). The pathogenesis of NVG is, in most cases, associated with ischemia of the posterior segment, which is most frequently associated with proliferative diabetic retinopathy or central retinal vein occlusion. The advanced stages of NVG are by iris and angle neovascularization, angle, and extremely high IOP, accompanied by ocular pain and poor vision. The therapeutic approach of NVG is based on the reduction of retinal ischemia by panretinal photocoagulation. Intravitreal anti-VEGF administration can contribute to the regression of neovascularization, and topical and systemic medications may be necessary for IOP control. However, if medical treatment with these agents is not enough, surgical procedures may be required to lower IOP and prevent glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Early and prompt diagnosis, with identification of the underlying etiology, can improve IOP control and final visual outcome. The aim of this study is to review current knowledge of the pathogenesis and management of NVG.

Short-term outcomes of micropulse transscleral laser therapy using the revised delivery probe in refractory glaucoma

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effectiveness of MicroPulse^® transscleral laser therapy (MP-TLT) using both the original and revised MicroPulse P3^® delivery probes in patients with refractory glaucoma.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective study METHODS: We analyzed the data of patients with refractory glaucoma who underwent MP-TLT with the original and with the revised MicroPulse P3^® Delivery Device from January 2018 to December 2020 at the University of Tokyo Hospital and who were followed up for 3 months. Patients' demographics, preoperative and postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP), medication scores, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

This study enrolled 40 patients in both probe groups. At baseline, the mean IOP was 31.1 mmHg in the original group and 29.2 mmHg in the revised group, and it decreased to 22.6 mmHg and 21.6 mmHg after 3 months, respectively (paired t-test p=0.001, 0.001). No significant difference was noted between the number of medications and BCVA at baseline and 3 months in either probe group (paired t-test, p>0.05). Nor were any serious complications observed.

CONCLUSION

MP-TLT using the revised MicroPulse P3^® Delivery Device for the treatment of refractory glaucoma was effective in reducing IOP across glaucoma types with an excellent safety profile and was well-tolerated by the patients.

Surgical Outcomes of the Ahmed Valve Implantation Following Trans-scleral Cyclophotocoagulation

Purpose: To determine the intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering effect and complications of Ahmed valve implantation (AGV) in patients who underwent cyclophotocoagulation (CPC).Methods: Patients who underwent AGV after CPC in group 1, those who underwent CPC after AGV in group 2, and patients who underwent repeated CPC in group 3 were included in this retrospective observational study. Changes in IOP, number of glaucoma eye drops, and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were analyzed before and 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months after surgery, and postoperative complications were analyzed.Results: Eight patients in group 1, 10 patients in group 2, and seven patients in group 3 were included in the analysis. Preoperative IOP was 45.6 ± 15.5, 29.3 ± 5.6, and 43.4 ± 14.4 mmHg in the three groups, respectively, and the number of glaucoma eye drops was 3.8 ± 0.7, 3.9 ± 0.3, and 3.7 ± 1.0 in the three groups, respectively. At 12 months postoperatively, IOP decreased significantly in all three groups compared to preoperatively (all p < 0.05), and the number of glaucoma eye drops was also significantly reduced (all p < 0.05). Among patients with preoperative BCVA of 0.02 decimal or higher, postoperative BCVA decreased in two patients in group 2 and one in group 3 (p = 0.380). Hypotony occurred in one patient in group 1 and two patients in group 3 (p = 0.383), and among them, one patient in group 1 and one patient in group 3 progressed to the phthisis (p = 0.940).Conclusions: In patients whose IOP cannot be controlled after CPC, AGV is expected to be used as a relatively safe and effective treatment method for lowering IOP.

Micropulse vs. continuous wave transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in neovascular glaucoma

Neovascular glaucoma (NVG) is a refractory form of glaucoma, associated with important morbidity, for which no consensus exists regarding the optimal choice of therapy. The primary aim of our study was to compare the performances of micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MP-TSCPC) and continuous wave transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (CW-TSCPC) in the treatment of neovascular glaucoma (NVG). A total of 24 eyes for MP-TSCPC and 22 eyes for CW-TSCPC, all with NVG were included. The procedures were performed using either the Iridex Cyclo G6 (IRIDEX Laser System), the MP3, or the G-Probe devices. Intraocular pressure (IOP), visual acuity (VA), the mean number of antiglaucoma medications, and postoperative complications were monitored. The minimum follow-up was 12 months. The success rate at 12 months was 54.5% in the CW-TSCPC group and 33.3% in the MP-TSCPC group. The mean IOP at baseline was 35.82 mm Hg for CW-TSCPC and 34.71 mm Hg for MP-TSCPC. The change from baseline in IOP at 12 months was 11.95 mm Hg in the CW-TSCPC group and -8.04 mm Hg in the MP-TSCPC group. There was a significant difference in the occurrence of serious complications (worsening of VA, hypotony, and phthisis bulbi) between the two methods, with CW-TSCPC associated with more important adverse effects (P=0.045). There was a decrease in the number of topical antiglaucoma medications in both groups: in the MP-TSCPC group from a mean number of 2.6 at baseline, to 1.7 at 3 months, followed by a slight increase to 2.1 at 12 months and in the CW-TSCPC group from 2.8 at baseline, to 1.4 at 3 months and 1.9 at 12 months. Our study concluded that both MP-TSCPC and CW-TSCPC could manage NVG, but, while CW-TSCPC revealed higher IOP control in the long term (which did not reach statistical significance), it also had a significantly lower safety profile.

MicroPulse Transscleral Laser Therapy Demonstrates Similar Efficacy with a Superior and More Favorable Safety Profile Compared to Continuous-Wave Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation

Purpose. The aim of this study was to compare effectiveness and safety of MicroPulse transscleral laser therapy (MP-TLT) using the original MicroPulse P3® device and continuous-wave transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (CW-TSCPC) using the G-Probe® device in glaucoma. Methods. Spherical equivalent, intraocular pressure (IOP), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and number of topical or oral ophthalmic pressure-reducing medications were registered at every time point, up to the last follow-up at 12 months. A complete slit-lamp examination was conducted to record the following complications: corneal edema, persistent ocular hypotony (IOP ≤5 mmHg) on two consecutive follow-up visits, choroidal detachment, phthisis bulbi, sympathetic ophthalmia, cystoid macular edema, or other abnormal ocular findings. Success was defined as IOP between 6 and 21 mmHg and >20% reduction in IOP with or without antiglaucoma medications. Results. 47 eyes underwent MP-TLT and 150 CW-TSCPC. At 12 months, success was achieved in 88.6% in the CW-TSCPC group and 87.5% in the MP-TLT group ( $p$  = 0.883). In the CW-TSCPC group, eyes achieved a 42.4% IOP reduction (from 28.3 ± 12.3 mmHg to 15.3 ± 6.0 mmHg) and a 31.1% reduction (from 22.0 ± 7.2 mmHg to 15.7 ± 4.8 mmHg) in the MP-TLT group. Visual acuity remained primarily unaltered in both groups. Conclusion. MP-TLT was as effective in lowering IOP as CW-TSCPC and achieved comparable success. Additionally, MP-TLT demonstrated consistent and effective outcomes at every time point. The improved safety profile of MP-TLT allows the therapeutic spectrum to be broadened, granting ophthalmologists’ treatment of glaucoma in earlier stages of glaucoma than those typically treated with CW-TSCPC, i.e., early to moderate and to patients with good central-vision.

Outcomes of initial and repeat micro-pulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in adult glaucoma patients

BACKGROUND

Micro-pulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MP-TSCPC) has continued to gain popularity as a treatment in adult glaucoma patients. Thus far there is limited evidence reporting the efficaciousness and safety of retreatment.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate safety and efficacy of primary and repeat MP-TSCPC procedures.

METHODS

Thirty-four of 67 eyes who failed to achieve target IOP from initial MP-TSCPC underwent repeat MP-TSCPC and followed for a minimum of 6 months. All treatments were performed using the laser power of 2000 or 2250 mW, duration of 100-200 s, and a velocity 16-20 s per hemisphere swipe. Success criteria were defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction of greater than 20% from baseline or any medication reduction without additional glaucoma procedures at 6 months after repeat MP-TSCPC. The 6-month success rate after repeat MP-TSCPC was also compared to that of initial MP-TSCPC in the same group of eyes.

RESULTS

Mean baseline IOP before the repeat MP-TSCPC was 23.0 + /- 5.3 on 3.0 + /- 1.4 medications. At 6 months, mean post-op IOP was 18.2 + /- 5.4 (21.9% reduction, p < 0.002), with mean medication staying relatively the same (p = .976). Success rate was increased from 23.5% to 44.1% with the repeat procedure compared to that of initial procedure (p = 0.123). Mean IOP reduction was also greater after repeat MP-TSCPC (18.7%, p < 0.002) when compared to initial MP-TSCPC (10.4%). No adverse events occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

MP-TSCPC is a safe and effective non-invasive means to lower IOP in a variety of glaucoma patients. While over 50% (34/67) of eyes required repeat MP-TSCPC, repeat treatment resulted in greater success rates and IOP reduction without any adverse events when using the total energy between 112 and 150 J.

MicroPulse® transscleral laser therapy in the management of glaucoma patients

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of MicroPulse® transscleral laser therapy (TLT) in the management of glaucoma patients.

METHODS

A prospective, interventional, non-comparative case series was conducted in the department of ophthalmology, Ain Shams University Hospital on 61 eyes of 46 patients with various glaucoma types and of severity, ranging from mild to severe. In addition to best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP) and the number of glaucoma medications were recorded before and after treatment, along with the postoperative need for systemic carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAI), success rates, number of treatment sessions and postoperative complications. Success was defined as an IOP of 6-18 mmHg or at least a 30% decrease from preoperative IOP in the absence of any vision-threatening complications during the 6-month follow-up period.

RESULTS

MicroPulse TLT was performed on 61 glaucomatous eyes. Eleven of the 61 eyes (18%) that did not achieve IOP between 6-18 mmHg, or at least a 30% decrease from baseline at 6 months, had a repeat MicroPulse TLT session. At 6 months follow-up post a single MicroPulse TLT session, the mean IOP reduction was 35.9 ± 14.2%; and 6 months after the second session, it was 36.2 ± 17.5% (p < 0.001). The success rate after the first session was 73.8% which increased to 78.7% after the second session. The mean anterior chamber (AC) cell reaction was +1.9 ± 0.8 at 1 day, +1.0 ± 0.7 at 1 week, and +0.2 ± 0.4 at 1 month postoperatively. No cells were detected in any of the cases at 3 and 6 months follow-up (p < 0.001). The average number of anti-glaucoma eye drops before MicroPulse TLT was 2.6 ± 1.0. Postintervention, the average number of anti-glaucoma eye drops was 1.7 ± 1.2, and sustained at 6 months follow-up after the last treatment session (p < 0.001). There were no significant complications were noted. One eye developed transient hypotony for 3 months after MicroPulse TLT.

CONCLUSIONS

MicroPulse TLT is safe and effective in lowering IOP in a variety of glaucoma types and severity.

Primary slow-coagulation transscleral cyclophotocoagulation laser treatment for medically recalcitrant neovascular glaucoma

AIMS

To report treatment outcomes of slow-coagulation continuous-wave transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (TSCPC) as an initial surgical intervention in patients with neovascular glaucoma (NVG).

METHODS

A retrospective study including 53 patients (mean age of 69.6±16.6 years and mean follow-up of 12.7±8.9 months) with a diagnosis of NVG and no previous incisional glaucoma or cyclophotocoagulation surgeries. All patients underwent slow-coagulation continuous-wave TSCPC (1250-milliwatt power and 4-second duration).Primary outcome measure was surgical success defined as an intraocular pressure (IOP) from 6 to 21 mm Hg with a reduction ≥20% from baseline, no reoperation for glaucoma and no loss of light perception vision. Secondary outcome measures include IOP, glaucoma medications, visual acuity (VA) and complications.

RESULTS

IOP decreased from 40.7±8.6 mm Hg preoperatively to 18.4±12.2 mm Hg postoperatively (p<0.001). The preoperative number of glaucoma medications dropped from 3.3±1.1 at baseline to 2.0±1.5 at the last postoperative visit (p<0.001). The cumulative probabilities of success at 12 and 24 months were 71.7% and 64.2 %, respectively. Mean logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution VA was relatively unchanged from 2.27±0.63 to 2.25±0.66 at the last follow-up visit (p=0.618). The most common observed complications were decrease in baseline VA (13.2%) and anterior chamber inflammation (9.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

Slow-coagulation TSCPC is an effective and relatively safe initial surgical intervention in medically uncontrolled NVG.

Micropulse Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation as Primary Surgical Treatment for Primary Open Angle Glaucoma in Taiwan during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) accounting for the greatest number of total glaucoma cases. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MP-TSCPC) as a primary procedure in POAG during the COVID-19 pandemic. We retrospectively analyzed 60 eyes of 52 patients, who were diagnosed with mild-to-end-stage POAG without previous glaucoma surgery and received MP-TSCPC between 1 January 2020 and 31 August 2020. The mean preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) significantly decreased from 27.8 mm Hg to 19.8, 20.1, 20.3, 20.4, and 20.2 mm Hg at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, respectively (all p < 0.05). The mean number of IOP-lowering medications used significantly decreased from 3.3 at the baseline to 1.6, 1.8, 1.8, 1.9, and 1.9 at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, respectively (all p < 0.001). Total withdrawal of antiglaucoma medications was fulfilled in five patients. The main outcome was achieved in 81.7% at postoperative month 12. The most common adverse effect was transient mydriasis (28.3%). No major complications were encountered. MP-TSCPC seems to be an effective and safe treatment to reduce IOP and the medication burden with minimal vision-threatening complications in mild-to-end-stage POAG patients without previous glaucoma surgery.

Outcomes of a combination of augmented MicroPulse and limited Continuous Wave Cyclophotocoagulation in patients with refractory glaucoma

Purpose

To assess the safety and effectiveness of augmented MicroPulse (MP-TSCPC) with limited Continuous Wave Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation (CW-TSCPC) in patients with refractory glaucoma.

Methods

Thirty-eight eyes of 38 patients underwent combined MP-TSCPC and CW-TSCPC at Massachusetts Eye and Ear. Kaplan–Meier survival curves and Wilcoxon paired sign rank tests were performed to evaluate intraocular pressure (IOP), glaucoma medication burden, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and adverse events.

Results

With success defined as IOP reduction ≥ 30% and IOP between 5 and 18 mmHg, the cumulative probability of success at 1 year and 1.5 years were 0.81 (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.68–0.96) and 0.65 (95% CI, 0.50–0.86), respectively. With success defined as IOP reduction ≥ 50% and IOP between 5 and 18 mmHg, the success probability at 1 year and 1.5 years were 0.72 (95% CI, 0.57–0.89) and 0.56 (95% CI, 0.40–0.78), respectively. IOP and medication burden reductions were significant at all follow-up visits compared to baseline. Average IOP decreased from 27.9 mmHg at baseline to 11.4 mmHg at 1 year (p < 0.001) and 10.0 mmHg at 1.5 years (p < 0.001). Average medication burden decreased from 3.8 to 1.7 at 1.5 years (p = 0.001). No significant differences in visual acuity were observed at any time point. No long-term sight-threatening complications due to the combined procedure were observed, and most of the complications observed were mild and transient.

Conclusion

In patients with refractory glaucoma, the combination of augmented MP-TSCPC with limited CW-TSCPC provides a significant IOP-lowering effect and decrease in medication burden without increased risk of postoperative complications.

Micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in a Taiwanese population: 2-year clinical outcomes and prognostic factors

PURPOSE

To evaluate the 2-year efficacy and safety of micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MP-TSCPC) in Taiwanese patients with glaucoma.

METHODS

We included the patients who received standardized MP-TSCPC with follow-up examinations on a regular basis for 24 months. Treatment success was defined as the attainment of a postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) between 6 and 21 mmHg or a ≥ 20% reduction in IOP from baseline without an increase in glaucoma medications.

RESULTS

A total of 60 eyes from 56 patients who underwent MP-TSCPC for refractory glaucoma were included. The median age at MP-TSCPC intervention was 58.9 ± 12.4 years. The percentage of treatment success was 88.3% at 3 months, 83.3% at 6 months, 78.3% at 12 months, and 75.0% at 24 months. The mean baseline IOP prior to MP-TSCPC was 34 ± 11.9 mmHg (range 14-56 mmHg). The mean postoperative IOP decreased to 20.9 ± 10.0 mmHg, 18.0 ± 7.8 mmHg, 17.5 ± 6.4 mmHg, and 18.2 ± 7.1 mmHg after 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months, respectively, in successful cases. The mean number of glaucoma medications at baseline was 3.8 ± 0.2, and the mean numbers of glaucoma medications at postoperative months 3, 6, 12, and 24 were 2.6 ± 0.7, 2.8 ± 0.6, 2.5 ± 1.4 and 2.6 ± 1.4, respectively, in successful cases. Younger age and prior CW-TSCPC significantly contributed to surgical failure in the multivariate model. Complications after MP-TSCPC included mild anterior chamber inflammation, conjunctival hemorrhage, hypotony, and mydriasis, and all subsided after treatment. None of the eyes developed vitreous hemorrhage, cystoid macular edema, or phthisis bulbi in the late postoperative period.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that younger age and prior CW-TSCPC were risk factors for MP-TSCPC failure within 2 years. MP-TSCPC might be safe and effective for refractory glaucoma patients with maximal antiglaucoma medications.

Anterior Chamber Laser Flare Photometry After Diode Laser Cyclophotocoagulation

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in intraocular inflammation according to energy delivered per eye during transscleral diode laser cyclophotocoagulation (TDLC) in refractory glaucoma using laser flare (LF) photometry and to investigate the relationship between the change in anterior chamber flare values ​​and the success of TDLC.

METHODS

Patients who underwent TDLC for refractory glaucoma and had LF photometry data were analyzed retrospectively. We recorded the best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP) with Goldmann applanation tonometer, number of anti-glaucoma medications, LF photometry values (ph/ms) on pre-and postoperative days 1, 10 and 30.

RESULTS

The mean laser power applied during TDLC procedure was 2.45±0.35W. The mean laser duration was 2.09±0.28sec. The mean total energy applied per eye was 114.69±16.13 J, the mean number of pulses was 22.43±4.3. While the mean LF value was 49.71±11.99ph/ms preoperatively, it was 63.94±12.41ph/ms at the postoperative 30^th day. Possible predictors of success of TDLC were investigated using linear regression analysis (R adjusted 0.454 p=0.001). The IOP decrease at postoperative 30^th day was significantly related to the difference between the postoperative 1^st day and the preoperative LF (p=0.025, B/95% CI -0.358/-0.107- -0.008), and total cyclodiode energy delivered per eye (joules) (p=0.016, B/95% CI -0.396/-0.287 - -0.031).

CONCLUSIONS

Anterior chamber flare values increases after TDLC, though it does not regress to the preoperative level on the postoperative 30th day. Total cyclodiode energy delivered per eye and the difference between the postoperative 1^st day and the preoperative LF can be used to predict TDLC response.

An update on continuous-wave cyclophotocoagulation (CW-CPC) and micropulse transscleral laser treatment (MP-TLT) for adult and paediatric refractory glaucoma

PURPOSE

Continuous-wave cyclophotocoagulation (CW-CPC) is often preferred to medical and surgical treatments for managing refractory glaucoma. This review summarizes diode CW-CPC indications, history, histopathology, methods, efficacy and safety. It also provides an overview of the latest data available on micropulse transscleral laser treatment (MP-TLT) that uses repetitive micropulses of diode laser energy in an off-and-on cyclical fashion.

METHODS

A literature review was conducted on transscleral CW-CPC (CW-TSCPC), endoscopic CPC (ECP) and MP-TLT. Relevant series of adult and paediatric patients were included for assessing the procedures.

RESULTS

Regarding CW-TCPC, highly variable success rates are reported in the literature, depending on the definition of success, type of underlying glaucoma, energy settings, follow-up duration and retreatment rates. CW-CPC often needs to be repeated, especially in paediatric patients. CW-CPC exposes to risks of inflammation and chronic ocular hypotony or phthisis with irreversible visual loss. CW-TSCPC has mainly been used in very severe forms of glaucoma, in painful eyes with limited visual potential or after filtering surgery failure. Published data on ECP are more limited but overall good success rates have been reported. Through the direct visualization of the targeted ciliary body in anatomically abnormal eyes, ECP is the preferred surgical procedure in paediatric refractory glaucoma. Complication rates are relatively low after ECP; however, large studies with long-term follow-up are needed. ECP may be used in difficult, refractory cases, but it is often used earlier when combined with cataract surgery. Despite limited data on the exact mechanism of action of MP-TLT and a lack of standardization of laser settings, the first data from heterogeneous case series shows that it has a similar efficacy and a better safety profile compared to CW-TSCPC in the medium term.

CONCLUSION

Although they may lead to sight-threatening complications, both CW-TSCPC and ECP seem effective. ECP appears to be superior to CW-TSCPC in paediatric refractory glaucoma. Unlike ECP combined with cataract surgery, evidence supporting a wider use of CW-TSCPC and MP-TLT in earlier stages of neuropathy is lacking. While it now appears that the safety profile of MP-TLT is superior to that of CW-CPC, robust prospective comparative studies including homogeneous and well-defined cohorts of patients are still needed to confirm an at least comparable efficacy in the long term.

Comparative efficacy and safety of micropulse transscleral laser cyclophotocoagulation using different duration protocols in eyes with good visual acuity

PURPOSE

To compare the success rates and safety of micropulse transscleral laser cyclophotocoagulation (MP-TSCPC) for the treatment of refractory glaucoma using the 240-s and 160-s duration protocols in eyes with good visual acuity.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of patients with refractory glaucoma who underwent MP-TSCPC from December 2017 to September 2019 with baseline best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of ≥ 20/60. Laser treatments for the moderate and short duration protocols were defined as 240 s and 160 s with settings of 2000 mW/Cm2 and a duty cycle of 31.3%. Follow-up examinations were performed regularly until 12 months after the procedure.

RESULTS

Seventy-six eyes of 76 patients were included with BCVA ranging from 20/60 to 20/20. Forty-four eyes were treated with 240 s and 32 eyes were treated with 160-s duration protocols. There was no significant reduction in mean logMAR BCVA and visual field parameters from baseline at any follow-up point in both groups. Visual acuity remained unchanged or improved in 39 of 44 patients (88.6%) in 240-s group and in 28 of 32 patients (87.5%) in 160-s group. Seven of 44 eyes (15.9%) in 240-s group and 12 of 32 eyes (37.5%) in 160-s group required re-treatment for adequate IOP control. After the re-treatments, both protocols showed similar success rates of 79.5% in 240-s group and 75% in 160-s group at 12 months, respectively (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

MP-TSCPC can be offered as a primary surgical treatment for the management of refractory glaucoma in patients with good visual acuity. Considering the high re-treatment rates in 160-s group, the 240-s duration protocol appears to be more effective than 160-s protocol for adequate IOP control.

Efficacy and Safety of Repeated Micropulse Transscleral Diode Cyclophotocoagulation in Advanced Glaucoma

PRECIS

Repeat micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MPTCP) has some benefit in lowering intraocular pressure (IOP). There was a small risk of loss of vision, prolonged hypotony, and phthisis bulbi.

AIM

This study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of repeated MPTCP for an Asian population with refractory glaucoma.

METHODS

This is a retrospective case series of 43 eyes (43 patients) with severe glaucoma which underwent repeated MPTCP. Baseline parameters were taken from the visit just before the second MPTCP session. Success was defined as IOP of 6 to 21 mm Hg or ≥20% reduction in IOP without an increase in glaucoma medication from baseline, without further glaucoma reoperation, and ≤3 total MPTCP episodes. The IOP, number of IOP-lowering medications, and best-corrected visual acuity were documented preoperatively and postoperatively. Postoperative complications were also analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean age±SD was 57.4±18.2 years with a mean follow-up duration of 28.9±27.5 months. Neovascular glaucoma was the most common type of glaucoma [18 eyes (41.9%)]. The success rates at postoperative years 1, 2, and 3, and the latest follow-up were 36.4%, 42.9%, 32.0%, and 39.5%, respectively. The median survival time of repeat MPTCP was 4.6 months. Compared with the preoperative mean IOP (35.2±11.0 mm Hg), the mean IOP at postoperative years 1, 2, and 3, and latest follow-up, was 27.8±13.7 mm Hg (P=0.004), 27.4±12.4 (P=0.003), 31.8±13.2 (P=0.35), and 27.1±13.8 mm Hg (P=0.002), respectively. The mean number of IOP-lowering medications was reduced from 3.3±0.9 preoperatively to 2.8±1.3 at the final follow-up (P=0.007). Postoperative complications included prolonged hypotony [3 eyes (7.0%)] and phthisis bulbi [2 eyes (4.7%)].

CONCLUSION

Repeated MPTCP is at best moderately effective in lowering IOP for eyes with advanced glaucoma.

Two-year efficacy after first transscleral controlled cyclophotocoagulation in patients with and without pseudoexfoliation

Purpose

Transscleral controlled cyclophotocoagulation (COCO) is a transscleral 810-nm diode laser cyclophotocoagulation that automatically adjusts the applied laser energy utilizing an optical feedback loop. The present study investigates the influence of pseudoexfoliation (PEX) on the efficacy of COCO in a Caucasian study population.

Methods

Retrospective data from 130 consecutive eyes were analyzed during a 2-year follow-up. Baseline characteristics, intraocular pressure (IOP), number of IOP-lowering medications, visual field, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and secondary surgical interventions (SSI) were analyzed. The primary endpoint was IOP reduction at M24 compared to baseline, and the secondary endpoints were IOP course, reduction of IOP-lowering medications, surgical success, and IOP-lowering SSIs stratified by PEX and baseline IOP.

Results

IOP reductions of −35, −39, −25, −25, −23, −34, and −36% could be achieved from baseline to D1, W1, M1, M3, M6, M12, and M24 (all p < 0.001), respectively, while there was a significant overall reduction over time (p < 0.001) in the number of topical IOP-lowering medications postoperatively. The proportion of eyes requiring additional systemic IOP-lowering medication reduced from 31 to 0% at M24 (p = 0.025). Eyes without PEX and IOP < 30 mmHg at baseline had the lowest risk for IOP-lowering SSIs (p < 0.03). BCVA dropped at M12 (0.25 [95% CI: 0.12–0.38]), and the drop persisted during the following 12 months.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrates a midterm IOP-lowering effect after COCO while reducing the burden for topical and systemic IOP-lowering medications. Patients without PEX and IOP < 30 mmHg have a lower risk of SSI. The procedure per se cannot be excluded as causative for the decreased postoperative BCVA. Further prospective investigations are suggested.

Outcomes of neovascular glaucoma in eyes presenting with moderate to good visual potential

PURPOSE

To compare the disease characteristics and treatment outcomes of patients with neovascular glaucoma (NVG) presenting with visual acuity (VA) 6/60 or better in two different health systems.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of consecutive patients with NVG who presented between January 2016 to January 2018 in 5 tertiary-centres in India and one eye-specialist centre in London (UK) was performed. The baseline characteristics, treatment provisions, and visual outcomes in the India and UK cohorts were compared.

RESULTS

At presentation, 18% (83 of 451) and 22% (59 of 270) of patients with NVG had VA 6/60 or better in India and the UK cohorts, respectively. The aetiologies of NVG were similar with proliferative diabetic retinopathy being the most common cause (60.9%, India; 64.4%, UK; p = 0.38). Previous panretinal photocoagulation was more prevalent in the UK cohort compared to the India cohort (94.9% versus 66.3%, respectively; p < 0.001). The mean number of intravitreal anti-VEGF injections per eye was higher in the Indian cohort (1.65 ± 0.97 versus 1.14 ± 1.02 injections; p < 0.001). The number of eyes with closed angles (36.9% India versus 30.5% UK; p = 0.45) and the number of eyes needing glaucoma interventions (52.1% India; 62.7% UK; p = 0.82) were similar in two cohorts. Among glaucoma surgeries, trabeculectomies were more commonly performed in the Indian cohort (23 vs 4; p < 0.001),while glaucoma drainage device surgeries were more prevalent in the UK cohort (18 vs 4 p < 0.001). After a median follow-up of 21 months (IQR 8.4-34.8 India; 24-36 months UK), favourable visual outcomes (vision stable or improved) were similar in both health systems (52.5% in the Indian cohort vs 43.4% in the UK cohort; p = 0.28). On multivariate regression analysis, the need for trans-scleral cyclophotocoagulation was associated with worse visual outcomes in both cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

The causes and clinical profile of neovascular glaucoma with presenting visual acuity 6/60 or better in India and the UK were similar. Only up to 50% of eyes achieved favourable visual outcomes with current management protocols in both health systems.

MicroPulse® transscleral laser therapy in the management of glaucoma patients

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of MicroPulse® transscleral laser therapy (TLT) in the management of glaucoma patients.

METHODS

A prospective, interventional, non-comparative case series was conducted in the department of ophthalmology, Ain Shams University Hospital on 61 eyes of 46 patients with various glaucoma types and of severity, ranging from mild to severe. In addition to best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP) and the number of glaucoma medications were recorded before and after treatment, along with the postoperative need for systemic carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAI), success rates, number of treatment sessions and postoperative complications. Success was defined as an IOP of 6-18mmHg or at least a 30% decrease from preoperative IOP in the absence of any vision-threatening complications during the 6-month follow-up period.

RESULTS

MicroPulse TLT was performed on 61 glaucomatous eyes. Eleven of the 61 eyes (18%) that did not achieve IOP between 6-18mmHg, or at least a 30% decrease from baseline at 6 months, had a repeat MicroPulse TLT session. At 6 months follow-up post a single MicroPulse TLT session, the mean IOP reduction was 35.9±14.2%; and 6 months after the second session, it was 36.2±17.5% (P<.001). The success rate after the first session was 73.8% which increased to 78.7% after the second session. The mean anterior chamber (AC) cell reaction was+1.9±.8 at 1 day,+1.0±.7 at 1 week, and+.2±.4 at 1 month postoperatively. No cells were detected in any of the cases at 3 and 6 months follow-up (P<.001). The average number of anti-glaucoma eye drops before MicroPulse TLT was 2.6±1.0. Postintervention, the average number of anti-glaucoma eye drops was 1.7±1.2, and sustained at 6 months follow-up after the last treatment session (P<.001). There were no significant complications were noted. One eye developed transient hypotony for 3 months after MicroPulse TLT.

CONCLUSIONS

MicroPulse TLT is safe and effective in lowering IOP in a variety of glaucoma types and severity.

Micropulse trans-scleral laser therapy outcomes for uncontrolled glaucoma: a prospective 18-month study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of micropulse trans-scleral laser therapy (mTLT) in glaucomatous patients.

DESIGN

Prospective, interventional study in a university hospital setting.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty-two eyes of 52 adult patients with uncontrolled glaucoma despite maximal tolerated medical treatment, and/or poor candidates for filtering surgery.

METHODS

Participants received a 360-degree mTLT diode laser treatment (2000mW, 31.33% duty cycle), with duration adjusted to iris pigmentation and glaucoma severity (160-320 seconds). They were followed for 18 months to assess intraocular pressure (IOP), number of medications, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), glaucoma progression based on Humphrey Sita 24-2 perimetry and Cirrus high-definition optical coherence tomography, and complications. The primary outcome measure was the absolute success at 18 months. Absolute success was defined as an IOP 6-21 mm Hg and at least 25% IOP reduction, with equal or less number of IOP medications. Qualified success allowed for an increased number of IOP medications. Failure was defined as an inability to meet the criteria for success or the need for incisional glaucoma surgery.

RESULTS

Treatment absolute success was 61.5% at 12 months and 59.6% at 18 months. Mean IOP was reduced by 35.6% at 18 months (23.6 ± 6.5 mm Hg at baseline; 15.2 ± 4.1 mm Hg at 18 months, p < 0.001). mTLT did not significantly reduce the number of topical glaucoma medications (p = 0.075); however, 15 eyes (29%) had systemic oral glaucoma treatment at baseline and 10 eyes (20%) at 18 months. Eight patients (15%) experienced vision loss of ≥2 lines after the procedure. Three patients (6%) regained their preoperative CDVA by 1 month, and 3 patients (6%) by 3 months, while 2 patients (4%) sustained persistent visual loss. No ocular complications were noted in 84.6%. Incisional surgery was required in 25% of eyes owing to inadequately controlled glaucoma despite mTLT.

CONCLUSIONS

mTLT is a good therapeutic option for moderate IOP reduction, while being safe and predictable. This improved safety profile makes mTLT a treatment to be considered earlier in the management of glaucoma.

Various modalities for management of secondary angle closure neovascular glaucoma in diabetic eyes: 1-year comparative study

PURPOSE

To compare outcome of 4 methods for management of angle closure neovascular glaucoma (NVG) in diabetic eyes.

METHODS

Prospective comparative study, on 40 eyes (40 patients) with NVG. Patients were randomly assigned to group A (Trabeculectomy with MMC), B (Ahmed valve), C (Ex-Press Minishunt with MMC) or D (Diode cyclophotocoagulation). Patients were followed regularly for 1 year.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

intraocular pressure (IOP), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central foveal thickness (CFT), intraoperative bleeding, postoperative complications and 2ry intervention.

RESULTS

Preoperative data were not significantly different between 4 groups. Postoperatively, there was significant drop in IOP in each group at each follow-up. Ahmed valve group showed least mean postoperative IOP and highest mean drop of the IOP at 1 day and 1 week postoperatively, while Ex-Press minishunt group had least mean postoperative IOP at 1 month and 3 months postoperatively. At 6 months and 1 year, there was no significant difference between 4 groups. BCVA was not significantly different between 4 groups. At 1 year, CFT was significantly lower in each of the 4 groups, and it was significantly the least in group A and highest in group D. Highest intraoperative bleeding was observed with trabeculectomy. Success rate was not significantly different among the 4 groups.

CONCLUSION

The 4 management options showed a significant long-term effect on IOP, and on long-terms there was no significant difference between them for IOP and BCVA. Trabeculectomy showed highest incidence of intraoperative bleeding, while cyclophotocoagulation showed none.

Combined vitrectomy, near-confluent panretinal endolaser, bevacizumab and cyclophotocoagulation for neovascular glaucoma - a retrospective interventional case series

Background: Neovascular glaucoma (NVG) is a severe, potentially blinding disease and a therapeutic challenge. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of an integrative surgical approach to neovascular glaucoma. Methods: Retrospective analysis of a one-year follow-up of a consecutive interventional case series of NVG. Eyes underwent transscleral cyclophotocoagulation, pars plana vitrectomy, near-confluent panretinal photocoagulation, and intravitreal bevacizumab. Phakic eyes underwent concomitant cataract surgery. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA, logMAR), intraocular pressure (IOP, mmHg), number of glaucoma medication, visual analog pain scale (VAPS, 0-10) were recorded at baseline, and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Blind eyes were excluded. Results: Seventy-seven eyes of 77 patients (45 male, 32 female, mean age 73.6±12.2 years) were included. NVG underlying conditions included retinal vein occlusion (41.6%), proliferative diabetic retinopathy (35.1%), central retinal artery occlusion (19.5%), and ocular ischemic syndrome (3.9%). Mean IOP decreased postoperatively from 46.3±10.1 mmHg to 14.5±7.9 mmHg (p<0.001), glaucoma medication from 4.7±1.3 to 1.8±1.8 (p<0.001), and VAPS from 6.0±1.8 to 0. BCVA remained unchanged. Postoperative intraocular inflammation had resolved in all eyes at the one-month follow-up. 71.4% (55/77) eyes did not require additional major interventions during follow-up. Conclusions: A single, comprehensive surgery session lowered IOP significantly, reduced GMS, and controlled pain.

Combined vitrectomy, near-confluent panretinal endolaser, bevacizumab and cyclophotocoagulation for neovascular glaucoma - a retrospective interventional case series

Background: Neovascular glaucoma (NVG) is a severe, potentially blinding disease and a therapeutic challenge. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of an integrative surgical approach to neovascular glaucoma. Methods: Retrospective analysis of a one-year follow-up of a consecutive interventional case series of NVG. Eyes underwent transscleral cyclophotocoagulation, pars plana vitrectomy, near-confluent panretinal photocoagulation, and intravitreal bevacizumab. Phakic eyes underwent concomitant cataract surgery. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA, logMAR), intraocular pressure (IOP, mmHg), number of glaucoma medication, visual analog pain scale (VAPS, 0-10) were recorded at baseline, and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Blind eyes were excluded. Results: Seventy-seven eyes of 77 patients (45 male, 32 female, mean age 73.6±12.2 years) were included. NVG underlying conditions included retinal vein occlusion (41.6%), proliferative diabetic retinopathy (35.1%), central retinal artery occlusion (19.5%), and ocular ischemic syndrome (3.9%). Mean IOP decreased postoperatively from 46.3±10.1 mmHg to 14.5±7.9 mmHg (p<0.001), glaucoma medication from 4.7±1.3 to 1.8±1.8 (p<0.001), and VAPS from 6.0±1.8 to 0. BCVA remained unchanged. Postoperative intraocular inflammation had resolved in all eyes at the one-month follow-up. 71.4% (55/77) eyes did not require additional major interventions during follow-up. Conclusions: A single, comprehensive surgery session lowered IOP significantly, reduced GMS, and controlled pain.

Histologic Changes Following Continuous Wave and Micropulse Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation: A Randomized Comparative Study

Purpose

To compare the macroscopic and microscopic histologic changes in eyes treated with micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MP-TCP) versus continuous wave transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (CW-TCP).

Methods

Twelve halves of globes from three pairs of adult cadaveric eyes were randomly assigned to nontreated control, CW-TCP, single MP-TCP treatment, or double MP-TCP treatments, and then sectioned for histologic analysis. Presence or absence of the following four unique histologic changes was recorded: splitting within the ciliary process epithelium (splitting), separation of the pigmented ciliary process epithelium from the stroma (separation), coagulation of collagen and destruction of ciliary process stroma (coagulation), and full-thickness destruction of ciliary process epithelium (destruction).

Results

A total of 498 slides were analyzed, and laser scars in all treated specimens were located in the pars plana. Logistic regression analysis showed that compared with controls, CW-TCP-treated specimens were significantly more likely to experience separation (odds ratio [OR] = 11.1, P = 0.02), coagulation (OR = 24.3, P = 0.002), and destruction (OR = 11.1, P = 0.03). Destruction of the ciliary process epithelium was observed exclusively in CW-TCP-treated sections. No significant differences in histologic features were observed between controls and MP-TCP.

Conclusions

MP-TCP does not produce significant histologic changes in cadaveric eyes, whereas CW-TCP treatment does.

Translational Relevance

These findings improve understanding of the mechanism of MP-TCP, help explain the increased rates of adverse effects following CW-TCP treatment compared with MP-TCP, and describe effects of MP-TCP at various doses.

Outcomes of micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in primary open-angle glaucoma, pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, and secondary glaucoma

PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to compare the outcomes of micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation between primary open-angle glaucoma, pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, and other types of secondary glaucoma.

METHODS

Outcomes of 96 consecutive patients with refractory, end-stage glaucoma treated with micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation were retrospectively reviewed. Follow-up examinations were performed on a regular basis until 12 months postoperatively. Surgical successes were defined as maintaining intraocular pressure ⩽18 mmHg and ⩾20% reduction in intraocular pressure (criteria A), ⩽15 mmHg intraocular pressure and ⩾25% reduction in intraocular pressure (criteria B), and ⩽12 mmHg intraocular pressure and ⩾30% reduction in intraocular pressure from baseline (criteria C).

RESULTS

Ninety-six eyes of 96 patients (50 (52%) females, 46 (48%) males) were included. Among all eyes, 32 were primary open-angle glaucoma, 30 were pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, and 34 were other types of secondary glaucoma. The mean age was 59.37 ± 11.45 (range: 20-91) years. The mean follow-up period was 14.2 ± 3.9 (range: 12-16) months. At 12 months, the success rates of primary open-angle glaucoma, pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, and secondary glaucoma group were 68.75%, 66.6%, and 64.7% (p = 0.185) for criteria A; 56.25%, 53.3%, and 50% (p = 0.153) for criteria B; and 43.75%, 43.3%, and 38.2% (p = 0.146) for criteria C. Four patients (12.5%) in primary open-angle glaucoma group, 5 patients (16.6%) in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma group, and 14 (41.2%) patients in other secondary glaucoma group required reoperation during the follow-up (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation is an equally effective method of lowering intraocular pressure in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma, pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, and other types of secondary glaucoma. The rate of reoperation was higher in refractory secondary glaucoma patients.

[Efficiency and Therapy Safety of Fractionated Cyclophotocoagulation with up to Ten Laser Spots for Advanced Primary Open-Angle and Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma]

BACKGROUND

Various procedures are available for the treatment of advanced glaucoma. We examined the efficacy and safety of fractionated cyclophotocoagulation (CPC) with up to ten laser spots for advanced primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and pseudoexfoliation (PEX) glaucoma treated with maximal topical therapy or eye-drop intolerance.

MATERIAL UND METHODS

This retrospective study evaluated data from 297 eyes with advanced POAG and PEX glaucoma which received 10 applications of CPC between February 2012 and June 2017. Intraocular pressure (IOP), number of topical eye drops and postoperative complications were evaluated. Data were collected preoperatively, four weeks postoperatively, and at the last documented contact (six months postoperative visit). The paired Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to analyse the changes.

RESULTS

The IOP for open-angle glaucoma decreased from 16.66 ± 4.36 mmHg preoperatively to 13.87 ± 3.59 mmHg at the last visit (6 months postoperative visit; p < 0.05). The IOP for the PEX glaucoma decreased significantly from 20.76 ± 9.55 mmHg preoperatively to 15.50 ± 5.93 mmHg at the last visit (p < 0.003). The number of hypotensive agents in the POAG was 2.51 ± 1.00 preoperatively and at the last visit 2.27 ± 1.03. In PEX glaucoma, the number of hypotensive agents was 2.46 ± 1.07 preoperatively and at the last visit 1.88 ± 0.97. Treatment-related complications occurred in three eyes - two cases of postoperative macular oedema, which were treated well with systemic steroids, and one case of pretreated anterior chamber irritation with hyphema, which was also treated with topical steroids.

CONCLUSION

In our group of patients, the mild CPC performed by us with a maximum of 10 applications (vs. the conventional 20 - 30 applications) produced a good reduction of intraocular pressure, as well as a reduction in topical medication, with a low complication rate.

Diode laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation for uveitis-glaucoma-hyphema syndrome: A case report

RATIONALE

To report a case of diode laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (DLTSC) for uveitis-glaucoma-hyphema syndrome (UGH).

PATIENT CONCERNS

The patient developed UGH on the right eye (OD) after vitrectomy and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation.

DIAGNOSES

Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was HM/50 cm, intraocular pressure (IOP) was 51.3 mm Hg on the OD. He was found to have 3+ anterior chamber cells. A B-scan ultrasound showed vitreous opacity. Ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) showed the chafing between the IOL and the posterior surface of the iris. Thus, he was diagnosed as UGH on the OD.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient was worried about the complications for removal of the IOL, a DLTSC approach was performed.

OUTCOMES

BCVA was 20/40 on the OD, IOP was 12 mm Hg on the OD. There were no anterior chamber inflammation and no vitreous opacity. UBM showed there was no contact between IOL and the posterior surface of the iris, the fundus of the eye was clearly visible.

LESSONS

UGH syndrome is a severe complication of cataract extraction. IOL extraction has been the traditional approach to treatment. DLTSC can be an option when the IOL is slightly tilted.

Double-session micropulse transscleral laser (CYCLO G6) for the treatment of glaucoma

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of double-session micropulse transscleral (MP3) laser for the treatment of glaucoma. This was a retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent MP3 laser with the standard protocol and were within at least 12 months of their follow-up appointments. Eyes were treated at 2000 mW with 31.3% duty cycle for 80 s per treatment session, with double sessions in each hemifield alternating between upper and lower and upper and lower. Success criterion was defined as a greater than 20% reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) and an IOP between 6 and 18 mmHg at the end of the follow-up period. Eighty-nine eyes of seventy-six glaucoma patients were included; 31 of which were considered primary, i.e., no previous glaucoma surgery. The average pre-treatment IOP was 29.9 ± 6.4 mmHg. At around 16.7 ± 3.1 months of follow-up, the average IOP was 14.8 ± 4.7 mmHg (p < 0.001) (28.8 ± 7.4 to 15.7 ± 5.3 mmHg, p < 0.001, at 17.0 ± 3.1 months in the primary eyes). The number of topical glaucoma medications was reduced from 3.6 ± 0.5 to 1.9 ± 0.9 at the last evaluation (p < 0.001). The best corrected visual acuity in logMAR ranged from 0.41 ± 0.34 preoperatively to 0.45 ± 0.44 at the last visit (p = 0.2), and also remained stable in primary eyes. Success was obtained in 86.5% of the eyes, with 1.5 ± 0.8 procedures, and in 90.3% with 1.2 ± 0.5 MP3 laser procedures in the primary eye group. MP3 laser in two consecutive 80-s sessions was shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of glaucoma. Primary eyes required lower number of MP3 laser procedures.

Outcome Of MicroPulse® Transscleral Photocoagulation In Different Types Of Glaucoma

Purpose

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of MicroPulse^® transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (µP-TSCPC) up to 24-months follow-up using a standardized fixed protocol in patients with various types of glaucoma.

Methods

Prospective, nonrandomized, non-comparative interventional case series of µP-TSCPC performed by a single glaucoma surgeon at tertiary hospitals between May 2017 and May 2019.

Results

A total of 71 eyes of 68 patients (39 males, 29 females) aged 60.0 years (13–89 years) were treated with µP-TSCPC. The most common diagnosis was neovascular glaucoma. The safety index of corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) was 1.0, i.e. there was no significant change in CDVA postoperatively compared to baseline CDVA. The median baseline IOP was 35.0 mmHg (21.0–70.0 mmHg), which was reduced to 16 mmHg (8–32 mmHg) at 12 months/last follow-up postoperatively (p<0.001, Wilcoxon signed-rank test). The median reduction in IOP was 52% (0.0–89%) at 12 months/last follow-up postoperatively compared to baseline. The median number of medications was 5 (3–5) at baseline compared to 4 (2–4) at 12 months/last follow-up postoperatively (p<0.001, Wilcoxon signed-rank test). The percent of eyes treated with systemic glaucoma medication was 62% (44) at baseline compared to 0% (0) at 12 months/last follow-up postoperatively. The postoperative surgical success of 90%, 91.4%, and 95.7% at 2 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months respectively then remains unchanged. No significant adverse events or complications were observed.

Conclusion

µP-TSCPC demonstrated good efficacy and safety profiles with minimal vision-threatening complications in treating a variety of glaucoma types.

Efficacy and safety of transscleral cyclophotocoagulation in Swedish glaucoma patients

PURPOSE

To retrospectively evaluate the efficacy and safety of all transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (TCP) treatments performed during a 5-year period.

METHODS

Medical records of all patients, who had undergone TCP treatment between 2010 and 2014 at Umeå University Hospital, Sweden, were evaluated. Clinical data including intraocular pressure (IOP), visual acuity (VA), number of topical glaucoma medications, use of oral acetazolamide, retreatments and complications during a 2-year follow-up were registered. Global success was defined as IOP 6-18 mmHg with or without glaucoma medication.

RESULTS

Three hundred patients underwent TCP during the time period. Mean IOP at baseline was 29.3 ± 11.0 (mean ± standard deviation) mmHg (n = 297) with a mean reduction of 11.5 (±12.0) mmHg at 1 year (n = 258; p < 0.001) and 12.6 (±12.0) mmHg at 2-year follow-up (n = 245; p < 0.001). Global success at 2 years was 64%, achieved by a mean of 1.2 treatments (n = 257). The number of topical glaucoma medications at baseline was 3.1 (±1.0; n = 296) and was reduced by 0.9 (±1.0) medications at 2 years (n = 244; p < 0.001). Use of oral acetazolamide decreased from 30% (n = 90) at baseline to 5.3% (n = 13) at 2 years. In eyes with Snellen VA ≥ 0.1, the mean VA at baseline was 0.55 (±0.3) logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR; n = 132) and 1.1 (±0.9) logMAR (n = 76) at 2 years (p < 0.001). No cases of phthisis bulbi were found.

CONCLUSION

This study displays a substantial and long-term reduction of IOP following TCP with a decrease in topical and oral glaucoma medications. The treatment appears to be safe but the decrease in VA during follow-up is a concern that needs further evaluation.

Micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation using a standard protocol in patients with refractory glaucoma naive of cyclodestruction

PURPOSE

To assess the efficacy and safety of a standardized micropulse transscleral diode laser cyclophotocoagulation procedure in refractory glaucoma.

METHODS

Retrospective, interventional study in a series of 37 consecutive patients with refractory glaucoma, cyclodestructive procedure-naive, who underwent micropulse transscleral diode laser cyclophotocoagulation from December 2016 to October 2017. A successful laser treatment was defined as (1) intraocular pressure between 6 and 18 mm Hg; (2) 20% of baseline intraocular pressure reduction; (3) no additional glaucoma medications; (4) no decrease in vision due to complications or change in intraocular pressure; and (5) no need for additional glaucoma surgery except micropulse transscleral diode laser cyclophotocoagulation retreatment.

RESULTS

Mean age was 60.2 years. Mean follow-up was 9.7 ± 3.9 months. The mean preoperative intraocular pressure (28.7 mm Hg) significantly decreased to 21.0 mm Hg at 1 month, 18.5 mm Hg at 3 months, 18.4 mm Hg at 6 months, and 18.5 mm Hg at 12 months (p < 0.01 at all time points). The mean number of preoperative glaucoma medications (4.7) decreased to 4.0 at 1 month (p = 0.14), 4.5 at 3 months (p < 0.05), 3.9 at 6 months (p < 0.05), and 3.6 at 12 months (p < 0.05). At 1 year, the success rate was 35% with a mean intraocular pressure lowering of 36%. One patient had hypotony and a loss of best-corrected visual acuity. Mild transient postoperative inflammation was observed in 8% of the cases.

CONCLUSION

Using a standardized procedure, micropulse transscleral diode laser cyclophotocoagulation allows a mild intraocular pressure decrease with a low rate of complications and thus achieves a relatively good profit risk benefit, mostly for moderately hypertensive refractory glaucoma.