Outcomes of combined lens extraction and goniosynechialysis in angle closure

Comparison of Long-Term Effects Following Phacoemulsification Combined with Goniosynechialysis and Trabeculectomy in Patients with Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma and Cataract

INTRODUCTION

Goniosynechialysis (Phaco-GSL) is a logical therapeutic approach for patients with primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) and cataract. The aim of this study was to compare the long-term effectiveness and safety of Phaco-GSL and trabeculectomy (TRB) in the management of PACG with coexisting cataract.

METHODS

A review was conducted on 96 Chinese patients (96 eyes) with PACG and cataract from Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH). Among them, 56 patients underwent Phaco-GSL, while 40 underwent TRB. Intraocular pressure (IOP), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), use of supplemental antiglaucoma medical therapy, surgery success rates, and complications for both procedures were assessed.

RESULTS

The average follow-up period was 50.3 ± 18.7 months in the Phaco-GSL group and 61.2 ± 15.1 months in the TRB group. At the final follow-up, IOP decreased from 27.0 ± 11.1 mmHg to 13.5 ± 2.1 mmHg in the Phaco-GSL group and in the TRB group IOP decreased from 27.1 ± 7.7 mmHg to 16.5 ± 5.5 mmHg. The long-term postoperative IOP in the Phaco-GSL group was significantly lower than that in the TRB group. There was a statistically significant reduction in medication usage in both groups, with the TRB group having a higher number of postoperative medications at the final follow-up. The incidence of postoperative complications was significantly higher in the TRB group compared to the Phaco-GSL group.

CONCLUSIONS

Phaco-GSL is the recommended surgical approach for Chinese patients with primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) and cataract. Compared to traditional TRB, eyes undergoing Phaco-GSL show a reduced requirement for antiglaucomatous medications, improved management of IOP, decreased risk of complications, and higher long-term cumulative probability of treatment success for patients with PACG.

Changes in Anterior Chamber Angle and Choroidal Thickness in Patients with Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma after Phaco-Goniosynechialysis

We aimed to observe changes in angle width and choroidal thickness (CT) before and after phacoemulsification intraocular lens implantation (PEI) combined with goniosynechialysis (GSL) in patients with primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) complicated by cataracts. This prospective cohort study included 60 patients with PACG complicated by cataracts from the Department of Ophthalmology of Shaoxing People’s Hospital, China. Patients underwent PEI combined with GSL (PEI-GSL group) or laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) followed by PEI (PEI group). Intraocular pressure (IOP) and endothelial counts were significantly decreased in both groups after surgery, while best-corrected visual acuity and central anterior chamber depth were significantly increased. However, there were no significant differences between the two groups. The opening degrees of room corners at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o’clock were recorded as AA12, AA3, AA6, and AA9, respectively. Anterior chamber depth was significantly increased postoperatively compared to preoperatively in both groups, with no significant between-group differences (all ps > 0.05). At 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively, the width at AA12, AA3, and AA9 points was higher in the PEI-GSL group than in the PEI group (all ps < 0.05). Significant between-group differences at AA6 were observed preoperatively (p = 0.023) and at 1 (p = 0.027) and 3 (p = 0.033) months postoperatively but not at 6 months postoperatively (p = 0.055). CT was smaller postoperatively than preoperatively (all ps < 0.001). The present study suggests that patients with PACG who underwent PEI with or without GSL had reduced IOP and CT after surgery.

One-Year Results of a Multicenter Study: Intraocular Pressure-Lowering Effect of Combined Phacoemulsification, Goniosynechialysis, and Goniotomy for Cases of Advanced Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma With Cataract

PURPOSE

To evaluate the intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering effect of the combination of phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation (PEI), goniosynechialysis (GSL), and goniotomy (GT) in eyes of advanced primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) with cataract.

DESIGN

Multicenter observational study.

METHODS

We enrolled 83 eyes of 83 patients with advanced PACG who received combined PEI+GSL+GT at 8 ophthalmic institutes. Each patient was assessed before treatment and at 1, 7 days, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postsurgery. The criteria for complete success were IOP within 6 to 18 mm Hg and at least 20% of reduction in IOP from baseline without ocular hypotensive medications or reoperation. The definition of qualified success was similar to that of complete success, except for the need for ocular hypotensive medications. The potential prognostic factors for surgical success were investigated using a multivariate logistic model.

RESULTS

All participants completed 1 year of follow-up. Complete and qualified success were achieved in 74 (89.1%) and 79 (95.2%) of 83 eyes, respectively. The mean preoperative and postsurgical IOPs were 27.4±7.3 and 14.2±2.6 mm Hg, respectively. Participants used an average of 2.0 and 0.3 types of ocular hypotensive medications before and after surgery, respectively. The chief complications included hyphema (n=9), IOP spike (n=9), and corneal edema (n=8). None of the eyes required reoperation or developed vision-threatening complications. Multivariate analysis showed that older age was associated with a higher probability of complete success (odds ratio=1.13; 95% CI: 1.02-1.25; P=0.020).

CONCLUSIONS

The 1-year results of combination of PEI+GSL+GT in treating advanced PACG cases with cataract appear to be safe and effective. Further large-scale multination and multicenter studies are warranted.

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery in Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma

Primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) is responsible for half of the glaucoma-related blindness worldwide. Cataract surgery with or without trabeculectomy has been considered to be the first-line treatment in eyes with medically uncontrolled PACG. While minimally invasive glaucoma surgery has become an important surgical approach for primary open-angle glaucoma, its indications and benefits in PACG are less clear. This review summarizes the efficacy and safety profile of minimally invasive glaucoma surgery in PACG to unfold new insights into the surgical management of PACG.

EFFICACY OF PHACOEMULSIFICATION AND PHACOEMULSIFICATION COMBINED WITH GONIOSYNECHIALYSIS IN SURGICAL TREATMENT OF CHRONIC ANGLE-CLOSURE GLAUCOMA: 2-YEARS STUDY

Aim. To study the degree of angle opening and the decrease of intraocular pressure in primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) after cataract phacoemulsification and cataract phacoemulsification with goniosynechialysis (phaco + GLS). Materials and Methods. The study involved 28 patients (28 eyes) with primary chronic angle-closure glaucoma. The patients were divided into two groups, group 1 of 15 patients undergoing phaco with posterior chamber IOL implantation, and group 2 of 13 patients undergoing phaco with IOL implantation and GLS. The patients were followed for 24 months. Phaco was indicated in cases with IOP above 22 mmHg, appositional anterior chamber angle closure, and optic neuropathy; Phaco with GSL was indicated in cases of synechial angle closure and IOP above 22 mmHg Results. In group 1 after Phaco, postoperative anterior chamber angle opening was >20° in all quadrants. Postoperative IOP after 24 month follow-up it decreased by 32,6 % from the preoperative levels. In group 2 after Phaco+GSL, anterior chamber angle opened at least to 20° in three or more quadrants in all cases. Postoperative IOP after 24 month follow-up it decreased by 33.0% from the preoperative levels. Conclusions. Thus, phacoemulsification is an efficient procedure for PACG and appositional angle closure, leading to reopening of the anterior chamber angle with significant IOP reduction. Phacoemulsification alone does not lead to reopening of anterior chamber angle in cases with synechial angle closure, necessitating a combined surgery of phacoemulsification with GSL.

Efficacy and safety of phacoemulsification plus goniosynechialysis and trabectome in patients with primary angle-closure glaucoma

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of combined phacoemulsification, intraocular lens implantation, goniosynechialysis (GSL), and trabectome in patients with primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG). Twenty patients (22 eyes) of PACG treated with combined phacoemulsification, intraocular lens implantation, GSL, and trabectome between September 2017 and September 2020 were included in this case series study. The intraocular pressure (IOP), number of glaucoma medications, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were recorded at baseline, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. Successful surgery was defined as IOP < 21 mmHg with or without IOP-lowering medications. IOP was decreased significantly from 22.07 ± 6.62 mmHg at baseline to 15.06 ± 3.39 mmHg at 12 months' follow-up (p = 0.001). The number of glaucoma medications was significantly reduced from 2.68 ± 1.17 preoperatively to 0.78 ± 0.73 at 12 months' follow-up (p < 0.01). The rate of successful surgery was 88.9% at 12 months. The reduction in IOP showed a positive correlation with baseline IOP (p < 0.001), and the reduction in number of glaucoma medications was positively correlated with baseline number of glaucoma medications (p < 0.001). There were no vision-threatening complications intraoperatively or postoperatively. Combined phacoemulsification, IOL implantation, GSL, and trabectome were effective and safe in PACG patients in this study. These combined surgical techniques may be useful in PACG patients, especially those with long term and extensive peripheral anterior synechiae.

Real-world Surgical Outcomes of Primary Angle-closure Glaucoma

Purpose

To evaluate surgical outcomes of the four common procedures utilized for primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG).

Methods

A retrospective study of survival rate in surgical management of PACG was conducted in a referral eye center. One hundred and ninety-nine eyes from 173 PACG patients were collected for chart review. The procedures used were phacoemulsification (PE), combined PE with goniosynechialysis (PE-GSL), combined PE with trabeculectomy (PE-Trab), and trabeculectomy alone. Failure was defined as postoperative IOP >21 mmHg in patients who needed second surgical intervention or those who had IOP <5 mmHg with loss of light perception. Cumulative survival rates, risk of surgical failure, and complications were analyzed.

Results

PE, PE-GSL, PE-Trab, and trabeculectomy were performed in 84 eyes (42.2%), 76 eyes (38.2%), 21 eyes (10.6%), and 18 eyes (9%), respectively. Cumulative survival rates at 60 months were 13%, 55%, 42% and 43%, respectively. Cox regression analysis indicated that each mmHg IOP increased, the risk of surgical failure decreased by 13% (adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 0.87; 95%CI: 0.84-0.93, p<0.001).

Conclusion

Real-world surgical outcomes of PACG showed that PE alone had a low survival rate of 13% in 60-month follow-up whereas PE-GSL achieved the highest rate of 55%. PE-GSL should be initially considered for management of PACG, since it can restore and sustain the physiologic aqueous pathway and preserve the conjunctiva for future filtering surgery if needed.

Comparing the Safety and Efficacy of Phacogoniosynechialysis With Phacotrabeculectomy in the Management of Refractory Acute Primary Closure Angle Glaucoma With Cataract: A Multicenter Randomized Trial

PRCIS

Combined phacoemulsification-goniosynechialysis (phaco-GSL) and unaugmented phacotrabeculectomy were both found to be effective in treating eyes with significant cataract and medically unresponsive acute primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG). Phaco-GSL seemed to be safer, with fewer surgical complications, and achieved better visual acuity than phacotrabeculectomy.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the results of combined phaco-GSL with unaugmented phacotrabeculectomy in the management of eyes with medically unresponsive acute PACG and cataract.

PARTICIPANTS AND RESEARCH METHODS

This was a prospective randomized controlled trial involving patients with significant cataract and acute PACG who were not responsive to maximal medical therapy. Three ophthalmic centers in Hanoi, Vietnam, participated in this trial. Study subjects were randomized into 2 groups: phaco-GSL or phacotrabeculectomy. Of note, mitomycin-C or 5-fluorouracil were not used during trabeculectomy, but postoperative bleb needling with 5-fluorouracil injection(s) was allowed. The primary outcome of the study was the rate of postoperative surgical complications in the first 3 months after surgery. The secondary outcome, determined at 1 year, assessed whether treatment was completely successful [defined as intraocular pressure (IOP)<21 mm Hg without IOP-lowering drops], or partially successful (IOP<21 mm Hg with IOP-lowering drops). Treatment failure was defined as IOP≥21 mm Hg with maximal IOP-lowering drops.

RESULTS

In total, 79 eyes from 79 patients (62 females, 17 males) were recruited (42 and 37 eyes in the phaco-GSL and phacotrabeculectomy groups, respectively). There were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups at baseline in terms of age, visual acuity, IOP, anterior angle width, or preoperative ultrasound biomicroscopy index. Postoperative complications in the first 3 months were seen more frequently in the phacotrabeculectomy group (62.2%) than in the phaco-GSL group (14.3%, P<0.01). At 1 year postsurgery, treatment was 100% successful in both groups, with no difference in the mean IOP (15.38±3.42 vs. 15.72±4.47 mm Hg). The visual field index improved significantly following surgery in both groups, but there was also no significant difference between the 2 groups. However, there was a significant difference in the best corrected visual acuity at 1 year, with patients in the phaco-GSL group achieving better vision (0.45±0.21 logMAR in the phaco-GSL group vs. 0.64±0.27 logMAR in the phacotrabeculectomy group, P=0.04). The mean angle width was also significantly larger in the phaco-GSL group than the phacotrabeculectomy group (2.34±0.33 vs. 1.25±0.41 Shaffer degrees). Similarly, on ultrasound biomicroscopy, the anterior chamber was deeper after 12 months (2.87±0.28 to 2.48±0.33 mm), and the mean trabecular-iris angle area was wider at 12 months (21.88±7.07 vs. 14.95±4.39 degrees) in the phaco-GSL than the phacotrabeculectomy group.

CONCLUSIONS

Phaco-GSL and phacotrabeculectomy were both effective in treating medically unresponsive cases of acute PACG with cataracts. However, phaco-GSL showed better visual outcomes, wider drainage angles postsurgery, and fewer complications than phacotrabeculectomy.

Cataract Surgery (Phacoemulsification with Intraocular Lens Implantation) Combined with Endoscopic Goniosynechialysis for Advanced Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy and risk of cataract surgery (phacoemulsification with intraocular lens [IOL] implantation) combined with endoscopic goniosynechialysis (EGSL) for advanced primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG).

DESIGN

Retrospective, continuous case series.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 16 patients (18 eyes) with advanced PACG were enrolled in this study between February 2014 and March 2016. Advanced glaucoma inclusion criteria were based on the method proposed in the Advanced Glaucoma Intervention Study, with a visual field score of 18 points or more.

METHODS

All patients underwent cataract surgery with EGSL by the same experienced surgeon. Paired t test and generalized estimating equation analyses were performed.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The extent of peripheral anterior synechiae (PAS), number of intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering drugs, IOP, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and visual fields before and after surgery. The incidence of complications was recorded.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up duration was 13.8 months (standard deviation, 2.7 months). The mean difference (preoperative minus postoperative) in PAS was 202.7° (95% confidence interval [CI], 43.5°). The mean difference (preoperative minus postoperative) in the number of IOP-lowering drugs and IOP was 2.0 (95% CI, ±0.5), and 9.4 mmHg (95% CI, ±2.1 mmHg) respectively. The mean improvement in BCVA was 0.29 logMAR (95% CI, ±0.14). A positive correlation was found between the extent of postoperative PAS and postoperative IOP (B = 8.2; P < 0.001) and also between postoperative PAS and postoperative number of IOP-lowering drugs (B = 28.9; P < 0.001). Anterior chamber hemorrhage and exudation occurred in 4 patients and 2 patients, respectively, after surgery. Posterior capsular opacification occurred in 5 patients after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Cataract surgery with EGSL could be an effective surgical method for the treatment of advanced PACG.

Two-Year Clinical Outcomes of Combined Phacoemulsification, Goniosynechialysis, and Excisional Goniotomy For Angle-Closure Glaucoma

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to describe changes in intraocular pressure (IOP) and IOP medications after phacoemulsification with Kahook Dual Blade-assisted goniosynechialysis and excisional goniotomy in eyes with angle-closure glaucoma and cataract.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

Data were collected retrospectively through 24 months of follow-up in 42 eyes of 24 subjects.

RESULTS

Preoperative mean (SE) IOP was 25.5 (0.7) mm Hg using a mean of 2.3 (0.1) medications per eye. At month 24, mean IOP had decreased to 13.5 (0.4) mm Hg [a reduction of 12.0 mm Hg (47.1%); P < 0.0001]. Medication use declined to a mean of 0.6 (0.2) medications per eye [a reduction of 1.7 medications per eye (76%); P < 0.0001]. At month 24, 40 of 42 eyes (95.2%) achieved IOP ≤18 mm Hg, 42 of 42 eyes (100%) achieved IOP reduction of ≥20%, 36 of 42 eyes (85.7%) required ≥1 fewer medications for IOP control, and 29 of 42 (69.0%) were medication-free. No eyes required additional glaucoma surgery throughout 24 months of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Phaco plus Kahook Dual Blade-assisted goniosynechialysis/excisional goniotomy provides statistically and clinically meaningful reductions in both IOP and medications in eyes with angle-closure glaucoma throughout 2 years of follow-up. These findings are consistent with our previously reported outcomes in this cohort at months 6 and 12 postoperatively, demonstrating a significant and sustained benefit of this procedure in eyes with angle-closure glaucoma and cataract.

Combined phacoemulsification and goniosynechialysis with or without endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation in the treatment of PACG with cataract

AIM

To investigate the efficacy and safety of combined phacoemulsification and goniosynechialysis with or without endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (PGE group and PG group) for the treatment of patients with coexisting primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) and cataracts.

METHODS

The clinical data of patients with PACG and cataract were retrospectively reviewed. There was a total of 88 eyes in the study and were divided into two groups, 42 eyes in PGE group and 46 eyes in PG group. Surgery success cumulative survival, preoperative and postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP), number of IOP-lowering medications, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in the two groups were observed for more than 12mo and compared within each group and between two groups.

RESULTS

The mean IOP in PGE group declined from 24.9 mm Hg preoperatively to 14.1 mm Hg at the first month after operation (P<0.001) and at the last visit 16.2 mm Hg (P<0.001). Meanwhile PG group also showed significant decrease, from 24.1 mm Hg preoperatively to 13.0 mm Hg at 1mo after operation (P<0.001) and 15.3 mm Hg at the last visit (P=0.004). The mean medications reliance reduced in both groups, in PGE group was reduced from 1.62 preoperatively to 0.13 at the last visit (P<0.001), in PG group from 0.87 to 0.10 (P<0.001). At the last visit, BCVA increased from 0.21 to 0.60 in PGE group (P<0.001) and from 0.24 to 0.67 in PG group (P<0.001). The success rate of PGE group at 1mo was 95.2%, then decreased to 70.7% at the last visit, whereas in PG group, the success rate at 1mo was 100%, at the last visit was 73.4%.

CONCLUSION

PGE shows promise for PACG patients with cataracts to reduce IOP, lighten the medication burden and improve visual acuity, and PG still has its value in specific patients.

Outcomes of effective goniosynechialysis under an endoscopic view combined with phacoemulsification in residual angle-closure glaucoma with lens opacity: 6-month results

PURPOSE

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of effective goniosynechialysis (GSL) under an endoscopic view combined with phacoemulsification in residual angle-closure glaucoma with lens opacity.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study. Patients with residual angle-closure glaucoma, lens opacity, and uncontrolled intraocular pressure (IOP) who were receiving anti-glaucoma medications were selected to undergo effective GSL under an endoscopic view combined with phacoemulsification. Follow-up examinations were conducted until 6 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Twenty-five eyes of 24 patients diagnosed with residual angle-closure glaucoma and lens opacity and peripheral anterior synechiae (PAS) at least ≥ 270° were included. Their mean age was 61.32 ± 6.11 years. Preoperatively, the mean (standard error) IOP was 29.69 (11.22) mmHg, and the median number of IOP-lowering medications used was 3.0. The decreases in the rates of IOP of the patients were 44.29%, 52.17%, 46.95%, 48.37%, and 47.29% at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 2.5 months, and 6 months after the surgery, respectively. At 6 months, the median number of IOP-lowering medications used decreased from 3 to 0 and the range of PAS compared to the baseline decreased from 312° to 107° (P < 0.001). We also found that 21/25 eyes achieved improved or stable visual acuity after surgery. Postoperative complications included transiently elevated IOP (12.0%), exudation (8.0%), and hyphema (4.0%).

CONCLUSIONS

Phacoemulsification combined with effective GSL under an endoscopic view may reopen residual angle-closure glaucoma and reduce the number of IOP-lowering medications for up to 6 months. It is an effective and safe method for patients with residual angle-closure glaucoma and lens opacity.

Phacoemulsification, visco-goniosynechialysis, and goniotomy in patients with primary angle-closure glaucoma: A comparative study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of goniotomy on patients with primary angle-closure glaucoma who underwent "phacoemulsification and visco-goniosynechialysis."

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective randomized clinical trial was carried out on 63 eyes of 61 patients (48-85 years) with primary angle-closure glaucoma who were enrolled. The subjects were randomly assigned into two groups. In the first group (32 eyes) and the second group (31 eyes), the patients underwent "phacoemulsification + visco-goniosynechialysis + goniotomy" and "phacoemulsification + visco-goniosynechialysis," respectively. Intraocular pressure and antiglaucoma medication were evaluated (1 week, as well as 1, 3, and 6 months after the surgery). Anterior segment optical coherence tomography parameters (Casia, Tomey, USA) and goniotomy were evaluated preoperatively and 6 months after the surgery.

RESULTS

The mean intraocular pressure lowering the effects in the "phacoemulsification + visco-goniosynechialysis + goniotomy" group was higher than that in the "phacoemulsification + visco-goniosynechialysis" group (6.93 and 4.6, respectively). Furthermore, the difference in intraocular pressure between the two groups was significant at 3 months (P = 0.014) and 6 months (P = 0.021) after the surgery. There was no difference in anterior segment optical coherence tomography findings before the intervention; however, after the intervention, the anterior segment optical coherence tomography indices were significantly different between the two groups. Moreover, the difference in "phacoemulsification + visco-goniosynechialysis + goniotomy" indices was more than the changes in the "phacoemulsification + visco-goniosynechialysis" group.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study showed that phacoemulsification + visco-goniosynechialysis + goniotomy is a more effective surgery than phacoemulsification + visco-goniosynechialysis alone in undercounted primary angle-closure glaucoma.

Twelve-month outcomes of excisional goniotomy using the Kahook Dual Blade® in eyes with angle-closure glaucoma

Purpose

To characterize clinical outcomes following Kahook Dual Blade^® (KDB)-assisted goniosynechialysis and excisional goniotomy combined with phacoemulsification in eyes with angle-closure glaucoma and cataract.

Setting

Two clinical practices.

Methods

In this retrospective analysis of existing health records, data were collected from 42 eyes of 24 subjects from preoperative, operative, and postoperative encounters through 12 months of follow-up. Outcomes included changes in mean IOP, IOP-lowering medications, and logMAR best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), as well as the proportions of patients achieving IOP reductions ≥20%, IOP ≤18 mmHg, and a reduction of ≥1 medication.

Results

Preoperative, mean (standard error) IOP was 25.5 (0.7) mmHg and at Month 12 was reduced by 12.3 (0.73) mmHg (−47.2%; p<0.0001). The mean number of IOP-lowering medications used was 2.3 (0.1) preoperatively and was reduced at Month 12 by 2.2 (0.12) (−91.7%; p<0.0001). At Month 12, 92.9% of eyes achieved IOP ≤18 mmHg, 100% achieved IOP reduction of ≥20%, 95.2% required ≥1 fewer medications for IOP control, and 85.7% (36/42) were medication-free. Mean LogMAR BCVA improved from 0.547 (0.06) at baseline to 0.159 (0.07) at Month 12.

Conclusion

KDB-assisted goniosynechialysis and excisional goniotomy at the time of phacoemulsification safely provide significant reductions in both IOP and IOP-lowering medication burden in eyes with angle-closure glaucoma, while simultaneously improving visual acuity.

Comparative Evaluation of Phacoemulsification Alone versus Phacoemulsification with Goniosynechialysis in Primary Angle-Closure Glaucoma: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PURPOSE

Comparative evaluation of phacoemulsification (phaco) alone versus phacoemulsification combined with goniosynechialysis (phacoGSL) in primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG).

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, parallel group, active controlled trial.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients with PACG.

METHODS

A total of 120 consecutive patients with PACG were screened, of whom 80 met inclusion criteria, with PACG uncontrolled on maximal hypotensive therapy and were recruited. Patients were randomized into 2 groups and underwent phaco alone in group 1 or phacoGSL in group 2. The patients were examined at baseline and at 1 week and 1, 3, and 6 months. The anterior chamber angle parameters on swept-source anterior segment OCT (SS-ASOCT) were noted at 1 and 6 months.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome measure was intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction. A reduction in IOP of ≥ 20% from baseline IOP with or without medications was considered a success. Secondary outcome measures included change in the anterior chamber angle temporal parameters, angle-opening distance, trabecular-iris space area and scleral spur angle, surgical safety, visual acuity, and reduction in the number of glaucoma medications postoperatively.

RESULTS

The average age of patients was 58.77±8.14 years and 56.50±9.17 years in groups 1 and 2, respectively (P = 0.31). The mean baseline IOP was 29.48±6.76 mmHg and 30.72±3.88 mmHg in groups 1 and 2, respectively (P = 0.13). Success was obtained in 93.33% of patients in group 1 and 91.18% of patients in group 2 at 6 months (P = 0.39). Mean IOP was 13.17±1.66 mmHg and 13.21±1.97 mmHg at 6 months in groups 1 and 2, respectively (P = 0.001). The reduction in IOP was 55.32% and 56.99% at 6 months in groups 1 and 2 (P = 0.48). Significant widening of the angle parameters was noted at 6 months with an increase compared with baseline values in both groups. In multivariate analysis, the significant predictor of decrease in IOP was the higher baseline IOP.

CONCLUSIONS

Both phaco and phacoGSL are associated with a significant reduction in IOP along with a noteworthy widening of the anterior chamber angle parameters. Both procedures succeeded in reducing the necessity of glaucoma medications postoperatively in PACG eyes. There is no additional benefit of phacoGSL over phaco in PACG.

Primary Outcomes of Patients with Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma Treated with Combined Phacoemulsification, Viscogoniosynechialysis, and Endocyclophotocoagulation

Purpose/Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of combined phacoemulsification, viscogoniosynechialysis (VGSL), and endocyclophotocoagulation (ECP) in patients with moderate chronic angle-closure glaucoma (CACG) with peripheral anterior synechia (PAS) ≥90 not controlled with glaucoma medications and previous iridotomy yag laser.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed records from patients with cataract and uncontrolled chronic angle-closure glaucoma despite maximal tolerated medical therapy and iridotomy yag laser who received combined treatment with phacoemulsification with posterior capsular lens implantation, VGSL, and ECP 360°. We evaluated intraocular pressure (IOP), glaucoma medications, and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) preoperatively and during follow-up.

Results

A total of 29 eyes from 22 patients received surgical intervention. Mean follow-up was 6 months. Mean preoperative IOP was 18.2 mmHg, and postoperatively, IOP was 13.5, 12.2, and 12.8 mmHg at 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively. Complete success was 37.9%, and relative success was 72.4%. Mean BCVA was 0.4 logMAR preoperative and 0.3 logMAR 6 months after surgery. Glaucoma medication fell significantly from 2.34 ± 1.66 preoperatively to 1.31 ± 2.6 postoperatively (p < 0.001). Overall, 44.8% of the patients did not require glaucoma medications at 6 months. There were no visual significant complications.

Conclusion

Combined treatment with phacoemulsification with posterior capsular lens implantation, VGSL, and ECP is effective and safe in reducing IOP and number of glaucoma medications with stable BCVA at 6 months.

Phacoemulsification with or without goniosynechialysis for angle-closure glaucoma: a global Meta-analysis based on randomized controlled trials

AIM

To compare the benefits and potential harms of routine phacoemulsification (phaco) alone and combined surgery with goniosynechialysis (GSL) for angle-closure glaucoma (ACG) and coexisting lens opacity, as shown in different randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted searching several databases including PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, ClinicalTrials.gov from the inception to September 2018 for RCTs with data published on the effects and safety of phaco and intraocular lens implantation combined with GSL or routine cataract surgery alone. Several studies were recruited which reported data at baselines and postoperative follow-up, including the mean values of postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) and mean numbers of anti-glaucoma medications using postoperatively. The numbers of complications happening were also included. Fixed-effect and random-effect models were applied, and the quality of evidence was evaluated.

RESULTS

Analysis of the seven included RCTs, with a total number of 321 participants (358 eyes) diagnosed with ACG and cataract, received a solo procedure (phaco group) or a combined surgery (phaco-GSL group) randomly, and follow-up periods ranging from 2 to 12mo postoperatively. The involved studies showed that the mean value of IOP between the two groups at 3 (four studies, one study follow-up at 2mo postoperative was included), 6, 12mo postoperative were not significantly different. Only two studies reported the change in IOP value at 12mo compared with baseline but showed no significant differences between the two interventions. Although three studies did not have the significant difference in the number of medications using to reduce IOP at 3mo postoperatively, two studies reported that the participants using fewer anti-glaucoma medications at 12mo postoperative in the phaco group than in the phaco-GSL surgery group.

CONCLUSION

The analysis provides a low to moderate-quality evidence that phaco-GSL surgery lead to an equivalent IOP-lowering effect. The phaco-GSL surgery may not help patients to reduce the consumption of anti-glaucoma eyedrops in the long period. The results of this analysis suggested that additional GSL may not be necessary for primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG) patients. Further studies, especially RCTs with more participants and longer follow-up time were needed to provide more sufficient data.

The effect of phacoemulsification plus goniosynechialysis in acute and chronic angle closure patients with extensive goniosynechiae

BACKGROUND

Patients with primary angle closure/glaucoma (PAC/PACG) with extensive peripheral anterior synechiae (PAS), and coexisting cataract, increasingly have been treated with phacoemulsification combined with goniosynechialysis (Phaco-GSL). Since the mechanisms of acute and chronic PAC/PACG may differ, the treatment effect of this procedure also may differ. The purpose of this study was to establish whether there was a difference in the therapeutic effect of Phaco-GSL on these two groups of patients, the results of which could provide clinical evidence for improvement in treatment protocols for patients with PAC/PACG and extensive PAS.

METHODS

This study was a retrospective cohort study. Twenty-seven patients, 13 with acute PAC/PACG and 14 with chronic PAC/PACG, were treated surgically by Phaco-GSL. The intraocular pressure (IOP), surgical success rate, the need of medication, the extent of PAS, the time and the rate of recurrence of PAS (re-PAS) and other indicators were observed post-operatively for at least 3 months.

RESULTS

After surgery, IOP decreased (preoperative vs postoperative: 29.77 ± 11.55 mmHg vs 14.92 ± 1.66 mmHg in the acute group and 26.00 ± 11.2 mmHg vs 14.93 ± 2.7 mmHg in the chronic group), the extent of PAS reduced (preoperative vs. postoperative: 314.23 ± 49.07° vs 116.54 ± 73.78° in the acute group and 285.00 ± 53.28° vs 156.43 ± 56.35° in the chronic group), the topical and systemic anti-glaucoma drug requirements decreased, in both groups and in the acute group, respectively. Compared with the acute group, the success rate (acute vs chronic: 100% vs 64.3%) was lower in the chronic group, while the incidence of re-PAS (acute vs chronic: 30% vs 83.3%) were higher in the chronic group. All differences mentioned above were statistically significant (p < 0.05). In addition, there were five patients in total who showed re-PAS of more than 90° (4 in chronic group and 1 in acute group) and all these re-PASs formed within 1 week postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

Although Phaco-GSL is effective in both groups, there may be differences in the effect between the two groups. Chronic patients are more susceptible to re-PAS. Thus, these patients should be observed closely and treated appropriately in the early post-surgical time period.

Phacoemulsification with Intraocular Implantation of Lens, Endocyclophotocoagulation, and Endoscopic-Goniosynechialysis (PIECES): A Combined Technique for the Management of Extensive Synechial Primary Angle Closure Glaucoma

Primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG) is more blinding (1 in 4 cases) than primary open angle glaucoma (1 in 10 cases). Cataract surgery is an effective initial treatment for majority of cases of PACG. However, cataract surgery alone may not be enough to control intraocular pressure (IOP) in cases with extensive synechial angle closure glaucoma. It is reported that glaucoma drainage surgery is needed in 12% of PACG cases after cataract surgery. Some experts combine cataract surgery with either goniosynechialysis (GSL) or endocyclophotocoagulation (ECP) to enhance IOP control. However, neither combination ensures complete success. We report three subjects with extensive synechia! angle closure in whom we facilitated a technique that combines lens extraction with ECP and endoscopic-GSL (PIECES). We demonstrated that this combined technique was a more effective and efficient method of achieving lower IOP in the presence of extensive synechial PACG. We believe that it addresses both the inflow and outflow of the aqueous humor simultaneously. Two out of three patients had good IOP control without medication and one patient needed one drop after a minimum 12 months of follow up. Furthermore, it may reduce the need for medical therapy and future more invasive glaucoma drainage surgery. How to cite this article: Alaghband P, Rodrigues IAS, Goyal S. Phacoemulsification with Intraocular Implantation of Lens, Endocyclophotocoagulation, and Endoscopic-Goniosynechialysis (PIECES): A Combined Technique for the Management of Extensive Synechial Primary Angle Closure Glaucoma. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2018;12(1):45-49.

The role of lens extraction in the current management of primary angle-closure glaucoma

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Lens extraction for primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) is a subject of increased interest recently, with advocates promoting its benefits of anatomical opening of the angle, intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction and improved vision. The present review seeks to evaluate recent available evidence to provide clarity on this potential intervention within the armamentarium of approaches for PACG.

RECENT FINDINGS

The emergence of recent case-control studies, cohort studies and randomized controlled trials has provided a stronger evidence base to equip ophthalmic surgeons with the necessary information to utilize lens extraction in the management of PACG, and to consider whether this should be combined with trabeculectomy or goniosynechialysis. Imaging modalities such as anterior segment optical coherence tomography have yielded new insights into the mechanical features of the lens in angle closure, with the lens thickness and lens vault now quantifiable. A trend is emerging regarding the improvement in IOP control, reduced complication rates and reduced need for IOP-lowering medications in patients who undergo lens extraction for PACG. These issues are discussed, along with aspects of preoperative assessment and surgical techniques.

SUMMARY

Good outcomes in terms of long-term IOP control have been found following lens extraction for PACG. Lens extraction should be considered in patients with PACG, especially with hyperopia, or a thick and anteriorly vaulted lens.