Baseline Intraocular Pressure Research Articles

Clinical Impact of the Use of Ologen in Filtering Surgery Performed in Uncontrolled Glaucoma

Introduction: To compare the efficacy and safety of trabeculectomy with a collagen matrix implant (Ologen®) versus trabeculectomy with mitomycin C (MMC) versus trabeculectomy with both Ologen® and MMC (OLO + MMC). Methods: This non-randomized study included 119 eyes of 101 patients with uncontrolled open-angle glaucoma who underwent trabeculectomy, either alone or combined with phacoemulsification. The data were initially recorded following a standard surgical protocol, using an electronic database with structured fields. The patients were divided into three groups: 44 received trabeculectomy with adjunctive MMC (MMC group), 34 received surgery with Ologen® (OLO group), and 41 received surgery with both Ologen® and MMC (OLO + MMC group). The main outcome measures were the change in intraocular pressure (IOP), change in number of medications needed, complete success rate (defined as IOP ≤ 20 mmHg and at least 20% IOP reduction without hypotensive medications), rate of complications, and rate of postoperative interventions. The follow-up period was 36 months. Results: IOPs significantly decreased (p = 0.01) in all groups across all study visits, decreasing from 19.8 ± 4.6 mmHg to 12.7 ± 4.2 mmHg in the MMC group, from 20.5 ± 4.7 mmHg to 13.9 ± 3.5 mmHg in the OLO group, and from 23.5 ± 6.1 mmHg to 13.1 ± 3.5 mmHg in the OLO + MMC group. After correcting for the baseline IOP, only the first two postoperative visits (first week and first month) showed a significantly greater IOP reduction in the OLO + MMC group. The number of hypotensive medications was significantly reduced from 3.1 ± 0.6 to 0.56 ± 1.1 in the MMC group, from 2.9 ± 0.4 to 0.83 ± 1.1 in the OLO group, and from 3.0 ± 0.6 to 0.45 ± 0.95 in OLO + MMC group, with no statistically significant differences among the groups (p = 0.57). The complete success rates were 63.6% in the MMC group, 67.6% in the OLO group, and 80.5% in the OLO +MMC group, with no statistically significant differences between the groups (p = 0.21). Suture release was significantly more frequent in the MMC group (86.1%) than in the OLO group (62.1%) and in the OLO + MMC group (45.9%; p = 0.02). Bleb needling, with (33.3%; p = 0.005) or without (66.7%; p = 0.0001) 5-fluorouracil injection (5-FU), was significantly more common in the MMC group. The highest complete success rate (61%) was observed in the OLO + MMC group. Conclusions: The use of Ologen® and mitomycin C provided similar surgical IOP reduction in glaucoma surgery compared with either MMC or Ologen® alone, but significantly reduced the need for postoperative interventions.

Midterm Survival Results of Preserflo® in a Real-world Setting: A Retrospective 2-year Analysis.

Preserflo® surgery is a safe procedure, effective in reducing intraocular pressure into the "low teens", surgical survival is greatest in cases of high baseline intraocular pressure (above 21mmHg) and when performed as a standalone procedure. To evaluate midterm surgical survival and safety profile of Preserflo® filtering surgery. Retrospective, cohort study. Consecutive patients who underwent standardized Preserflo® implantation with mitomycin C from December 2019 to April 2021 were included. Clinical data was retrieved from patient charts. Primary outcome was surgical survival at twenty-four months in accordance with World Glaucoma Association guidelines. Survival was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier statistics. Analysis was performed at eye-level and as intention-to-treat. Ninety-five eyes were included in this study (18 cases combined with cataract surgery). Over half of cases (n=51) were primary open angle glaucoma, with over a fifth having a prior filtering glaucoma procedure. Intraocular pressure at twenty-four months was significantly decreased from baseline (22.4±6.28mmHg vs 12.0±3.43mmHg), as well as the need for IOP-lowering medication (2.88 (±0.92) vs 0.79 (±1.3), P<0.001 all comparisons. Standalone Preserflo® achieved a qualified survival (irrespective of medication) of 71% (CI 95% 62%-83%) and 44% (CI 95% 27%-75%) in the combined procedure subgroup (P<0.05 when considering absolute survival). Eyes with baseline intraocular pressure ≥21mmHg showed a greater qualified survival when compared to eyes with baseline ≤18mmHg (80% (CI 95% 65%-100%) vs (50% (CI 95% 32%-76%; P<0.05). Intra and early operative complications were few, self-limited, and did not require surgical management. The reoperation rate was low (18%). Preserflo ® filtering surgery is effective in reducing intraocular pressure into the "low teens" and presents an adequate surgical survival and safety profile. Surgical survival appears greatest when performed as standalone and when pre-operative intraocular pressure is high (≥21mmHg).

The Efficacy and Safety Associated with Switching from Concomitant Brimonidine and Ripasudil, or Brimonidine or Ripasudil Monotherapy to a Fixed Combination of Brimonidine and Ripasudil in Glaucoma Patients.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate switching from brimonidine and ripasudil, and brimonidine or ripasudil, to a fixed combination of brimonidine and ripasudil, and evaluate the associated efficacy and safety in glaucoma patients. Methods: Glaucoma patients undergoing treatment with at least brimonidine and ripasudil (n = 25) or treatment with at least brimonidine or ripasudil (n = 45) were evaluated in this retrospective study. After switching patients taking brimonidine and ripasudil, or brimonidine or ripasudil, to a ripasudil/brimonidine fixed-combination, ophthalmic suspension (RBFC), intra-ocular pressure (IOP), conjunctival hyperemia and superficial punctate keratopathy (SPK) were evaluated before and at 4, 12 and 24 weeks after switching to RBFC. Results: No significant differences in the IOPs were observed after switching from brimonidine and ripasudil to RBFC. However, a significant decrease was observed at 4, 12 and 24 weeks in the baseline IOP, from 17.0 ± 4.4 mmHg to 15.7 ± 3.2 mmHg (p < 0.01), 14.3 ± 3.4 mmHg (p < 0.01) and 14.4 ± 4.1 mmHg (p < 0.01), respectively, after switching from brimonidine or ripasudil to RBFC. No significant changes were noted for the SPK score or conjunctival hyperemia score at any of the visits after switching to RBFC. Conclusions: Throughout the 24-week evaluation period, the IOP was maintained after switching from brimonidine and ripasudil to RBFC. However, there was a significant decrease in the IOP after switching from brimonidine or ripasudil to RBFC. These results demonstrate that RBFC is safe for use in the treatment of glaucoma patients.

Efficacy of gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy and trabeculectomy in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma and pseudoexfoliative glaucoma: A single surgeon's experience.

To compare the intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering efficiency of gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy (GATT) and trabeculectomy (TRAB) with mitomycin C in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and pseudoexfoliative glaucoma (PEXG). In this retrospective comparative study, consecutive patients with POAG or PEXG who underwent GATT or TRAB by a single surgeon and with a follow-up period of at least 1 year were included. Surgical success rates, change in best-corrected visual acuity, IOP, the need for antiglaucoma medication, surgical complications, and the need for additional glaucoma surgery were compared. Surgical success was defined as an IOP reduction of ≥30% or an IOP of ≤18 mmHg. Complete success was defined as without medication. Qualified success was defined as with or without topical medication. The mean baseline IOP was 27.4 ± 8.3 and 24.6 ± 7.6 mmHg (P = 0.13) with the mean number of medications being 3.7 ± 1.0 and 3.7 ± 1.1 (P = 0.98) in TRAB and GATT, respectively. At 12 months, the mean IOP was 15.3 ± 3.5 and 12.5 ± 4.6 mmHg (P = 0.24) with the mean number of medications being 0.9 ± 1.2 and 0.8 ± 1.4 (P = 0.76) after GATT and TRAB, respectively. IOP was lowered from baseline by 52.7% ± 17.5% after TRAB and 45.7% ±18.6% after GATT (P = 0.12). There was no decrease in best-corrected visual acuity in either group. The qualified surgical success rate was 94.4% in the GATT group and 94.9% in the TRAB group (P = 0.75). Percentage of complete success was 64.1% and 52.8% (P = 0.22) after TRAB and GATT, respectively. In patients with POAG and PEXG, GATT was as effective and safe as TRAB in lowering IOP and reducing the number of antiglaucomatous drugs.

Travoprost Intracameral Implant Demonstrates Superior IOP Lowering Versus Topical Prostaglandin Analog Monotherapy in Patients with Open-Angle Glaucoma or Ocular Hypertension.

This study was conducted to analyze and compare the intraocular pressure (IOP) treatment effect of the slow-eluting (SE) travoprost intracameral implant to the IOP treatment effect of topical prostaglandin analog (PGA) monotherapy in a subgroup of subjects who were on pre-study PGA monotherapy prior to enrollment in the two pivotal phase 3 trials of the travoprost intracameral implant. A combined study population of 133 subjects from two phase 3 trials, who were on topical PGA monotherapy at screening, subsequently underwent a washout period from their topical PGA, and then were randomized and administered an SE travoprost intracameral implant. The subjects were analyzed for the IOP treatment effects of the pre-study topical PGA monotherapy and the in-study SE travoprost intracameral implant. Paired t-tests were used to compare the difference in screening minus post-washout baseline IOP versus month 3 minus post-washout baseline IOP. The IOP-lowering efficacy in eyes administered an SE travoprost intracameral implant was compared to the IOP lowering in the same eyes while on a topical PGA monotherapy prior to study entry. Pre-study topical PGA monotherapy and the SE travoprost intracameral implant demonstrated IOP treatment effects of -5.76mmHg and -7.07 mmHg, respectively. The IOP-lowering treatment effect was significantly greater by 1.31mmHg for the SE travoprost intracameral implant relative to pre-study PGA monotherapy (95% confidence interval: -2.01, -0.60; P = 0.0003). The SE travoprost intracameral implant demonstrated superior IOP-lowering treatment effect versus pre-study topical PGA monotherapy with a superiority margin that was both statistically significant and clinically meaningful. The greater IOP reduction from baseline while on the SE implant versus pre-study topical PGA monotherapy may be a reflection of the optimized adherence and continuous elution of PGA therapy into the anterior chamber achieved with the SE travoprost intracameral implant. ClinicalTrials.gov identifiers, NCT03519386 and NCT03868124.

Longitudinal associations of retinal vessel morphology with intraocular pressure and blood pressure at follow-up visit-Findings from a Danish eye and vision cohort, Project FOREVER.

To characterise the retinal vasculometry of a Danish eye and vision cohort and examine associations with systolic blood pressure (BP), diastolic BP, mean arterial BP, and intraocular pressure (IOP). Longitudinal study. The retinal vasculature of fundus images from the FOREVER (Finding Ophthalmic Risks and Evaluating the Value of Eye exams and their predictive Reliability) cohort was analysed using a fully automated image analysis program. Longitudinal associations of retinal vessel morphology at follow-up visit with IOP (baseline and follow-up) and BP (follow-up) were examined using multilevel linear regression models adjusting for age, sex and retinal vasculometry at baseline as fixed effects and person as random effect. Width measurements were additionally adjusted for the spherical equivalent. A total of 2089 subjects (62% female) with a mean age of 61 (standard deviation 8) years and a mean follow-up period of 4.1 years (SD 0.6 years) were included. The mean arteriolar diameter was approximately 20% thinner than the mean venular diameter, and venules were about 21%-23% less tortuous than arterioles. BP at follow-up was associated with decreased arteriolar diameter from baseline to follow-up. After adjusting for baseline IOP, IOP at follow-up was associated with increased arteriolar tortuosity above baseline (0.59%, 95% CI 0.08-1.10, p-value 0.024). In a Danish eye and vision cohort, variations in BP and alterations in IOP over time were associated with changes in the width and tortuosity of retinal vessels. Our findings contribute novel insights into retinal vascular alterations over time.

The Impact of Baseline Intraocular Pressure on Initial Treatment Response in the LiGHT Trial: Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty versus Medication.

The Laser in Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension (LiGHT) Trial demonstrated the efficacy and safety of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) compared to topical hypotensive medication as 1st-line therapy for ocular hypertension and open angle glaucoma. This sub-study explores the impact of pre-treatment (baseline) intraocular pressure (IOP) on treatment response for SLT and medication. Post hoc analysis of randomised control trial data. 1146 eyes from 662 patients were included in this analysis: 559 eyes in the SLT group and 587 in the medication group. IOP reduction at 8 weeks following treatment with either SLT or prostaglandin analogue (PGA) eye drop initiation was assessed at different levels of baseline IOP, and the groups were compared. Differences in absolute and percentage IOP lowering between SLT and PGA medication were tested with a linear mixed effects model. Differences in the probability of achieving ≥20% IOP lowering between SLT and PGA medication, at different levels of baseline IOP, was estimated using a logistic mixed effects model. IOP lowering response to SLT versus PGA eye drops. Mean IOP was not significantly different between the groups, at baseline or 8 weeks following treatment initiation. Both treatments showed greater IOP lowering at higher baseline IOP and less IOP lowering at lower baseline IOP. SLT tended to achieve more IOP lowering than PGA drops at higher baseline IOP. PGA drops performed better at lower baseline IOP, and the difference compared to SLT, in terms of percentage IOP reduction, was significant at baseline IOP ≤ 17 mmHg. There was a significant difference in the relationship between baseline IOP and probability of ≥20% IOP lowering between the two treatments (p = 0.01), with SLT being more successful than PGA at baseline IOP > 22.51 mmHg. These data confirm previous reports of greater IOP lowering with higher baseline IOP for both SLT and topical hypotensive medication. In treatment naïve eyes, at higher baseline IOP, SLT was more successful at achieving ≥20% IOP lowering than PGA drops. At lower baseline IOP, a statistically greater percentage, but not absolute, IOP lowering was seen with PGA drops compared to SLT, although the clinical significance of this is uncertain.

Risk factors for suprachoroidal hemorrhage associated with glaucoma surgery in children: a case–control study

PurposeTo assess the risk factors for suprachoroidal hemorrhage (SCH) following glaucoma surgery in pediatric patients at a tertiary eye center. MethodsThe medical records of 326 patients (326 eyes) who underwent glaucoma surgery between January 2014, and September 2017 were reviewed retrospectively. Seventeen cases with SCH were compared with 309 controls who underwent uneventful glaucoma surgery during the same period. We documented age, sex, baseline intraocular pressure, glaucoma diagnosis, previous surgery, preoperative axial length, pachymetry, lens status and type of glaucoma surgery performed (whether combined with cataract or other glaucoma procedure or being standalone). ResultsOf the 17 cases of SCH, only a single case occurred intraoperatively; the remainder occurred in the early postoperative period. The most frequent diagnosis was primary congenital glaucoma (PCG), accounting for 10 patients (59%) in cases and 247 (80%) in controls, followed by glaucoma associated with nonacquired ocular anomalies, which accounted for 3 cases (18%) and 22 controls (7%). Aphakia and combined surgeries (in the univariate analysis) were found to be possible risk factors for the development of SCH, with none achieving significance in the multivariable analysis. ConclusionsIn our study cohort, combined surgeries as well aphakia were possible risk factors for SCH.

Effectiveness of pars plana Ahmed® valve implantation in patients with refractory glaucoma

PurposeTo evaluate the success rate and complications of the Ahmed FP7 valve implanted via Pars Plana in a group of vitrectomized patients with refractory glaucoma and anterior segment abnormalities from January 2018 to June 2023. MethodsQuasi-experimental, prospective study. Eleven eyes with refractory glaucoma were included. Participants underwent a comprehensive ophthalmic examination, including assessment of intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction, visual acuity, characterization of glaucoma type, and number of antiglaucoma medications. ResultsThe mean baseline IOP was 37.3 ± 11 mmHg, which decreased to 13.5 ± 3.0 mmHg after one year. The qualified success rate was 63.7%, while the complete success rate was 36.3%. The most common diagnosis was neovascular glaucoma in 36.4% of cases. The most frequent postoperative complications were choroidal detachment and hypotony. ConclusionsOur data suggest that implantation of the Ahmed FP7 valve via pars plana is an effective and safe option for patients with refractory secondary glaucoma.

Efficacy and Safety of the Subtenon Injection of 0.01% Mitomycin C-augmented Trabeculectomy.

Background Trabeculectomy, with the application of mitomycin C (MMC), has been the gold standard glaucoma-filtering surgery. The conventional method of applying MMC using soaked sponges does not ensure a controlled amount of delivery of MMC, and incidences of blebitis are reported to be associated with leftover sponges. This study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of a low dose (0.1 mg/ml) of MMC administered through subtenon injection during trabeculectomy combined with cataract extraction, addressing existing research gaps. Methods It is a prospective interventional study on patients who underwenttrabeculectomywith a subtenon injection of 0.1 mg/ml of MMC combined with cataract extraction and were followed up over six months. Efficacy was determined in terms of intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction; bleb architecture was graded using the Indiana Bleb Appearance Grading System (IBAGS) and success rate, and safety was commented upon in terms of complications. Results Thirty patients were enrolled, with the majority having primary open-angle glaucoma (63.33%), while 36.67% had primary angle-closure glaucoma. Baseline IOP was 31.40(±10.38) mmHg. It significantly reduced to 14.60(±3.75) mmHg on the first postoperative day, decreasing to 9.55(±1.57) mmHg by the sixth postoperative month (p=0.001). The percentage reduction in IOP was substantial, 69.57%, by the sixth postoperative visit. Bleb morphology assessment using IBAGS revealed significant improvements in bleb height and extent and a reduction in vascularity over the six-month follow-up (p=0.001), and no eyes had bleb encapsulation. Out of the total patients, 93.33% achieved controlled IOP without anti-glaucoma medications, while 6.67% required one medication for IOP control. Complications were minimal, with transient corneal edema in six patients and manageable postoperative hypotony in one case. Conclusion A subtenon injection of MMC during trabeculectomy effectively reduces IOP and promotes favorable bleb architecture, offering an effective and safer alternative to the conventional approach.

The effect of cumulative energy in repeated subliminal transscleral cyclophotocoagulation: a retrospective study

BackgroundThe long-term safety and efficacy of repeated applications of subliminal transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (SL-TSCPC) with a focus on cumulative energy was evaluated in glaucoma patients.MethodsIn this retrospective, multicentric study the data of a total of 82 eyes with various causes of glaucoma that were treated with a single or multiple applications of SL-TSCPC were collected. Treatments were performed under general or local anesthesia with an 810 nm diode laser. Power was 2000 mW; duty cycle, 31.3%; total treatment duration, 80–320 s; equaling a total energy of 50–200 J per treatment session. Fifty-five eyes (55 patients) presented for all follow-ups, and these eyes were selected for further statistical analysis. The mean age was 60.0 ± 17.1 years, and 22 (40%) of the patients were female. Intraocular pressure (IOP) and dependence on further glaucoma medication were evaluated at 12 months following the initial treatment.ResultsEyes underwent 1 or 2 consecutive SL-TSCPC treatments. Median (min–max) baseline IOP of 34 (13–69) decreased to 21.5 (7–61), 22 (8–68), 20 (9–68), and 19.5 (3–60) mmHg at the 1, 3, 6, and 12-month postoperative timepoints respectively. The mean (± SD) IOP decrease at 12 months was 26 ± 27%, 39 ± 32%, and 49 ± 33% in the low (below 120 J, n = 18), medium (120–200 J, n = 24), and high (above 200 J, n = 13) cumulative energy groups respectively. At the 12-month timepoint, oral carbonic anhydrase use was discontinued in ¾ of the cases.ConclusionsIt was found that the repeated application of SL-TSCPC safely and efficiently decreases IOP in a Caucasian population with heterogenous causes of glaucoma, eyes with silicone oil responded to a greater extent. Inclusion of cumulative energy scales may contribute to better addressing repeated procedures in a standardized fashion.

Bent ab interno needle goniotomy versus gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy in primary open-angle glaucoma: study protocol of a randomized clinical trial

BackgroundMinimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) is a new class of surgeries, which combines moderate to high success rates and a high safety profile. Bent Ab interno Needle Goniotomy (BANG) and Gonioscopy-Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy (GATT) are two low-cost MIGS procedures that communicate the anterior chamber to Schlemm’s canal. Most of the available publications on MIGS are either case series or retrospective studies, with different study protocols. The aim of this manuscript is to describe a randomized clinical trial (RCT) protocol to compare the long-term intraocular pressure (IOP) control and the safety of both procedures in eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma.MethodsThis is a parallel, double-arm, single-masked RCT that includes pseudophakic primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) eyes. After inclusion criteria, medications will be washed out to verify baseline IOP before surgery. Patients will be randomized to BANG or GATT using a sealed envelope. Follow-up visits will be 1, 7, 15, 30, 60, 90, 180, 330 and 360 days after surgery. On PO330, a new medication washout will be done. The main outcome is the IOP reduction following the procedures. Complimentary evaluation of functional and structural parameters, safety, and quality of life will be done after 30, 90, 180, and 360 days.DiscussionOur study was designed to compare the long-term efficacy and safety of two low-cost MIGS. Most of the published studies on this subject are case series or retrospective cohorts, with different study protocols, which included different types and severities of glaucomas, combined with cataract extraction. Our study only included mild to moderate POAG eyes, with previous successful cataract extraction. Moreover, it provides a standardized protocol that could be replicated in future studies investigating various types of MIGS. This would allow comparison between different techniques in terms of efficacy, safety, and patients’ quality of life.Trial registrationRetrospectively registered at the Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos (ReBEC) platform RBR-268ms5y. Registered on July 29, 2023.The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the University of Campinas, Brazil.

The Clinical Efficacy of Different Relaxation Exercises on Intraocular Pressure Reduction: A Meta-Analysis.

Objective: The aim of this study was to synthesize the available evidence on the clinical efficacy of different relaxation exercises on intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction. Methods: A systemic search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Web of Science was undertaken from the earliest record to 10 April 2024. Peer-reviewed studies that reported on healthy individuals and glaucoma patients engaging in relaxation exercises for at least three weeks were included. The primary outcome was changes in IOP levels from baseline, before the commencement of relaxation exercises, to post-exercise. Our statistical analysis employed a random-effects model, with effect sizes reported using Hedges' g. Results: Twelve studies were included, totaling 764 eyes (mean participant age ranging from 21.07 to 69.50 years). Relaxation exercises significantly reduced IOP, with Hedges' g being -1.276 (95% CI: -1.674 to -0.879) and I2 = 84.4%. Separate subgroup analyses showed that breathing exercises (Hedges' g = -0.860, p < 0.0001), mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) (Hedges' g = -1.79, p < 0.0001), and ocular exercises (Hedges' g = -0.974, p < 0.0001) were associated with reduced IOP levels. The reduction in IOP following the relaxation exercises was found to be associated with baseline IOP either greater than (Hedges' g = -1.473, p < 0.0001) or less than 21 mmHg (Hedges' g = -1.22, p < 0.0001). Furthermore, this effect persisted with follow-up durations of less than (Hedges' g = -1.161, p < 0.0001) and more than one month (Hedges' g = -1.324, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: The current meta-analysis indicates that relaxation exercises can significantly reduce IOP levels. Relaxation exercises are a potential class of novel treatments for glaucoma patients that deserve further evaluation.

Survival of medical treatment success in primary open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension

Background/aimsTopical agents to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) are the most common initial therapeutic measure in glaucoma prevention. This study aims to assess treatment success duration among patients initiating or intensifying...

Frequency-doubled neodymium yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser trabeculoplasty as adjuvant therapy for open-angle glaucomas

The thermal frequency-doubled Nd:YAG (neodymium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet) laser was used sparingly for trabeculoplasty. Our goal was to assess the efficacy and safety of frequency-doubled Nd:YAG laser trabeculoplasty as an adjunct therapy to anti-glaucoma medications in open-angle glaucoma. Laser trabeculoplasty was performed on 41 eyes of 22 adults with open-angle glaucomas using a thermal frequency-doubled Nd:YAG laser (Green laser photocoagulator GYC-500® 532 nm, Nidek, Japan). To assess the laser’s effectiveness, patients were monitored for intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction, control, and complications at 1 hour, 1 week, and then monthly for a year. Primary open-angle glaucoma was the most common diagnosis in 31 (75.6%) eyes. The pre-laser baseline IOP was 18.87±3.66 mmHg. The mean IOP was 14.9±2.54 mmHg at Week 1 (p = 0.000), 14.65±2.50 mmHg at Month 1, 14.53±2.60 mmHg at Month 3, 15.85±2.30 mmHg at Month 6, and 15.14±2.17 mmHg at Month 12 (p=0.000). A significant percentage reduction in IOP was achieved at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months: 21.78%, 22.48%, 16.73%, and 18.53%, respectively. Patients used an average of 2.73±1.00 topical drugs before laser treatment. There was a significant reduction in medicines after laser treatment on all occasions, at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months (p = 0.000). Complications included some degree of peripheral anterior synechiae (PAS) in 20 (51.3%) eyes; an IOP spike in one patient only, bilaterally (5.1%) at 1 hour after therapy; and mild anterior uveitis in four (9.75%) cases. To summarize, frequency-doubled Nd:YAG laser trabeculoplasty is a safe and effective adjuvant therapy for open-angle glaucoma that reduces intraocular pressure and medication use.

Intraocular pressure changes before and after a femtosecond laser procedure for cataract surgery

This study aimed to evaluate the changes in intraocular pressure (IOP) before and after femtosecond laser capsulorhexis and lens fragmentation for cataract surgery. We measured the IOP before, immediately, 30 min, and 1 h after the laser procedure in 47 eyes of 47 patients who underwent the femtosecond laser procedure. The mean IOP was 17.51 ± 3.28 mmHg, 30.23 ± 6.70 mmHg, 17.96 ± 3.75 mmHg, and 21.77 ± 5.88 mmHg before, immediately after, 30 min after, and 1 h after the laser procedure, respectively. The mean IOP significantly increased immediately (adjusted P < 0.001) and 1 h (adjusted P = 0.001) after the laser procedure compared with the pre-laser IOP. The mean IOP at 30 min after the laser procedure was significantly lower than that immediately after the procedure (adjusted P < 0.001). However, the IOP 1 h after the laser procedure became higher than that 30 min after the laser procedure. Additionally, the IOP 1 h after the laser procedure was positively correlated with the baseline IOP and negatively correlated with the axial length. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that cataract surgery should be commenced within 30 min after the femtosecond laser procedure to ensure a safe cataract surgery that reduces the risk of increased intraocular pressure.

Netarsudil 0.02% Alters Episcleral Venous Flowrates: A Clinical Trial Using Erythrocyte-Mediated Angiography

ObjectiveTo characterize the effect of netarsudil 0.02% on episcleral blood flow in treatment naïve glaucoma suspect or ocular hypertension subjects. DesignProspective, unmasked, single-arm cohort study. ParticipantsTen treatment-naïve patients with a diagnosis of glaucoma suspect or ocular hypertension. MethodsErythrocyte mediated angiography (EMA) was used to measure episcleral erythrocyte velocity, vessel diameter, and blood flow at baseline before treatment, 1 hour after drop instillation (T1), 1 to 2 weeks after daily netarsudil 0.02% drop use (T2), and 1 hour after drop instillation at the 1-to-2-week timepoint (T3). Intraocular pressure (IOP) and blood pressure were measured at each visit. Main outcome measuresChange in episcleral venous erythrocyte velocity, diameter, and blood flow between timepoints analyzed using generalized estimating equation (GEE) models. ResultsOf the 18 eligible study eyes of 10 enrolled treatment-naïve subjects, baseline IOP was 16.8±3.6mmHg (mean±SD), which significantly decreased to 13.9±4.2mmHg at T1, 12.6±4.1mmHg at T2, and 11.8±4.7mmHg at T3 (p<0.05 at each timepoint compared to baseline). Episcleral vessels averaged 61.3±5.3μm in diameter at baseline which increased significantly at all post-treatment timepoints (78.0±6.6, 74.0±5.2, 76.9±6.9 μm, respectively; mean±SD, p<0.05 for each timepoint). Episcleral venous flowrates were 0.40±0.22 uL/min (mean±SD) at baseline, which increased significantly to 0.69±0.45 uL/min at T1 (p=0.01), did not significantly differ at T2 (0.38±0.30 uL/min), and increased significantly to 0.54±0.32 uL/min at T3 (p<0.05 compared to baseline and T2). ConclusionsNetarsudil causes episcleral venous dilation at all timepoints and resulting increases in episcleral venous flowrates one hour after drop instillation. Increased episcleral venous flow, associated with decreased episcleral venous pressure (EVP), may result in lowered IOP.

A Comparative Study on Efficacy of Intraocular Pressure Lowering of Two Fixed-Dose Antiglaucoma Drug Combination Brinzolamide-Brimonidine Versus Latanoprost-Timolol in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension.

Purpose: To compare the efficacy of Brinzolamide-Brimonidine (BB) (1%+0.2%) with the gold standard Latanoprost-Timolol (LT) (0.005%+0.5%) in treating primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and ocular hypertension (OHT). Methods: A 1-year prospective study, spanning from May 2022 to May 2023, conducted at a tertiary eye-care hospital. Participants, aged 40-60, with a baseline intraocular pressure (IOP) >21 mm Hg, requiring a >30% reduction, were enrolled. Group A (n = 100) received BB, and Group B (n = 100) received LT. Outcomes were assessed at 1 month (IOP difference from baseline), 3 and 6 months (mean diurnal variations). Results: The mean age at presentation was 55.5 ± 4.5 years in Group A and 54.7 ± 4.2 years in Group B. At 1 month, Group A exhibited a mean IOP of 18.7 mm Hg, while Group B had 17.6 mm Hg, with no statistically significant difference (P = 0.53). No significant diurnal variation was observed in either group (P = 0.07). Target pressure was achieved in 88% of patients in Group A and slightly higher at 92% in Group B. Moreover, no serious side effects were reported, and compliance was higher in Group B (98%) compared to Group A (96%). Conclusion: Although LT showed slightly better and sustained IOP reduction, the difference was not statistically significant. Both BB and LT demonstrated comparable outcomes for managing POAG and OHT.

A Randomized, Controlled Comparison of NCX 470, a Nitric Oxide-Donating Bimatoprost, and Latanoprost in Subjects with Open-Angle Glaucoma or Ocular Hypertension: The MONT BLANC Study

PurposeTo compare intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering efficacy and safety profile of NCX 470, a nitric oxide (NO)-donating bimatoprost, to latanoprost in subjects with glaucoma or ocular hypertension. DesignProspective, phase 3, randomized, adaptive dose-selection, double-masked, parallel-group trial. Methods: Participants691 subjects with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension and unmedicated IOP of IOP ≥26 mmHg at 8AM, ≥24 mmHg at 10AM, and ≥22 mmHg at 4PM in the study eye. Study Procedures: Subjects were randomized to treatment with NCX 470 0.065%, NCX 470 0.1%, or latanoprost 0.005%. To identify the final NCX 470 dose, an interim analysis was performed after at least 30 subjects in each group had completed the Week 2 visit. Enrolled subjects were randomized to this final NCX 470 dose, 0.1%, or latanoprost for 12 weeks. Main outcome measure: We evaluated non-inferiority followed by superiority of NCX 470 versus latanoprost, based on IOP reduction from baseline at 8AM and 4PM at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months. ResultsNCX 470 0.1% was the final dose and 661 subjects were analyzed that received NCX 470 0.1% (n=328) or latanoprost (n=333). At baseline, the mean (SD) IOP at 8AM and 4 PM was 28.3 (2.0) mmHg and 25.5 (2.5) mmHg, respectively, in the NCX 470 0.1% group, and was significantly reduced at all on-treatment time points, with reductions ranging from 8.0-9.7 mmHg (p<0.0001 at each time point). Likewise, mean (SD) baseline IOP at 8AM and 4PM was 28.2 (2.0) mmHg and 25.4 (2.4) mmHg, respectively, in the latanoprost group and was significantly reduced at all on-treatment time points, with reductions ranging from 7.1-9.4 mmHg (p<0.0001 at each time point). At the 3-month visit, mean IOP reductions were greater with NCX 470 0.1% than latanoprost 0.005% at all 6 time points and significantly greater (p<.05) at 4 of the 6 time points. Noninferiority versus latanoprost was established at all 6 timepoints. The most common adverse event was conjunctival/ocular hyperemia and was more common in the NCX 470 group compared to latanoprost; 8 NCX 470 and 6 latanoprost subjects discontinued due to adverse events. ConclusionThe NO-donating prostaglandin analogue NCX 470 0.1% was well-tolerated and lowered IOP more than latanoprost in subjects with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension at all 6 time points. With a dual mechanism of action that enhances both uveoscleral and trabecular outflow, NCX 470 could become an important first-line therapy for IOP reduction in glaucoma.

Assessment of intraocular pressure changes following intravitreal injections of three anti-VEGF agents

PurposeIntravitreal injection (IVI) of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents has emerged as the primary treatment for prevalent retinal diseases. Despite its efficacy, IVI may induce intraocular pressure elevation due to vitreous fluid shifts. This study aims to compare the effects of three distinct anti-VEGF agents on intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation within a single clinic setting. DesignA prospective study, conducted at a single retinal clinic in a tertiary medical center (Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Centre, Tel-Aviv, Israel). MethodsPatients receiving 3 different anti VEGF medications; bevacizumab, aflibercept, and ranibizumab, were examined. IOP was measured pre- and post-injection using an iCare Pro-tonometer. Demographic parameters and ocular characteristics were collected. ResultsThe study included 195 patients (average age 76.13 years; 100 males, 95 females). The medications administered were aflibercept (N = 70, 35 %), bevacizumab (N = 73, 37.4 %), and ranibizumab (N = 52, 26.7 %). In patients with a normal baseline intraocular pressure, no significant variance was observed in the post-injection versus pre-injection pressure change (delta) across medications. Conversely, in patients with higher pressure (>20 mmHg), aflibercept incited a more substantial increase than bevacizumab or ranibizumab. No correlation emerged between the pressure rise and age or lens status. ConclusionsNo significant difference was found in the increase of intraocular pressure following injection among different medications in patients with low-normal intraocular pressure. However, for patients prone to higher baseline pressure, caution is recommended with aflibercept due to a more pronounced increase. Further research is essential to comprehend the factors influencing pressure increase and their associated clinical implications.