Outcomes of phaco-trabeculectomy versus phaco-viscocanalostomy for primary open angle glaucoma

Abstract

PurposeThis study aimed to compare the intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering effect and postoperative adverse effects of combined phacoemulsification and trabeculectomy (PT) and combined phacoemulsification and viscocanalostomy (PVC) in eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). MethodsIn this prospective study, eighty-one consecutive patients (81 eyes) with POAG and cataract were enrolled. The eyes were randomly assigned to either the PT group (40 eyes) or the PVC group (41 eyes). The main outcomes included the success rate based on IOP and the evaluation of adverse effects during the 6-month follow-up period. The surgery was considered a complete success if the IOP was between 6 and 20 mmHg and reduced by ≥30% without glaucoma medications or additional surgery compared to the preoperative level. A qualified success was characterized by an IOP within the range of 6−20 mmHg and a 20−30% reduction in IOP achieved through the use of glaucoma medications. ResultsThe mean baseline IOP was 23.20 ± 7.94 mmHg in the PT group and 21.29 ± 6.81 mmHg in the PVC group (P = 0.249). At 6 months, the mean postoperative IOP in the PT and PVC groups were 13.50 ± 2.49, and 13.73 ± 1.70, respectively. There was no significant difference in mean IOP between the groups at any time (P > 0.05). At 6 months, 22 patients (55%) in the PT group and 22 patients (53.66%) in the PVC group achieved complete success. Nine eyes (22.50%) in the PT group and 10 eyes (24.39%) in the PVC group achieved qualified success. The other patients (9 eyes in each group) did not meet the criteria for at least a qualified success and were considered failures (P = 0.980). Intraoperative microperforation of Descemet's membrane occurred in 2 cases (15%) in the PVC group. Postoperative complications included 4 cases (10%) of shallow/flat anterior chamber, 1 case (2.5%) of choroidal effusion, and 1 case (2.5%) of aqueous misdirection in the PT group. The rate of these postoperative adverse effects was not significant between the two groups (P > 0.05). ConclusionsThere was no significant difference in IOP reduction between PT and PVC in patients with POAG. Furthermore, PVC is safe enough in these patients, compared to PT.