Long-term vision outcomes and breed differences of Ahmed Glaucoma Valve implantation in 132 eyes of 122 dogs.

Abstract

To evaluate the long-term vision outcomes of Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation in dogs. The medical records of dogs that underwent AGV implantation from January 2010 to December 2019 were reviewed to assess the duration of post-surgical vision preservation (PVP). The relationship between PVP and the underlying cause of glaucoma, implant placement, and preoperative intraocular pressure was evaluated. One hundred and thirty-two eyes of 122 dogs (mean age, 8.3±2.6years) were included. The mean±standard error of PVP for all eyes was 57.5±3.9months. PVP in the dogs with primary acute glaucoma and prior history of cataract surgery was 56.4±4.7 and 59.3±5.9months, respectively (p=.712). The PVP of the Shiba Inu, American Cocker Spaniel, and other breeds was 63.1±5.5, 33.7±5.3, and 59.1±6.3months, respectively (p<.05). The PVP in dogs with medial implantation was 61.9±4.7months, and in those with lateral implantation was 45.4±6.4months (p=.034). Among the 132 eyes investigated, 48 (36.4%) lost vision by the last follow-up, and 18 eyes retained vision for more than 5years. Two of the total number of eyes retained their vision for more than 8years. The vision outcomes regarding the use of AGV for the management of canine glaucoma were favorable in dogs.