Bleb Appearance Grading Scale Research Articles

Deep learning for anterior segment OCT angiography automated denoising and vascular quantitative measurement

Anterior segment optical coherence tomography angiography (AS-OCTA) has superior advantages in objective assessment of anterior segment (AS) vessels. Resolving noise interference in image is necessary to optimize the application of AS-OCTA. The study aimed to explore an automated denoising algorithm based on deep learning (DL). The algorithm was built through 21,000 pairs of images, and tested with 30 healthy eyes, 47 preoperative eyes with glaucoma, and 30 eyes undergone trabeculectomy (Trab). The real pure noise images were acquired by artificial simulation of eye movements through AS-OCTA. The algorithm included deep convolutional generative adversarial network (DCGAN), Res-Unet and Otsu. ImageJ software quantified vessel density (VD) and vessel diameter index (VDI). Images after noise reduction had relatively satisfactory peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and structural similarity (SSIM). Indiana bleb appearance grading scale (IBAGS), Kronfeld grading system (KGS) and intraocular pressure (IOP) used for Trab analysis. The DL method was superior to the conventional methods (PSNR = 16.45, SSIM = 0.52, both P < 0.001), and the denoising reduced measurement error of VD and VDI (P < 0.001). The denoising methods enabled the differentiation of V2 in IBAGS from V0 and V1 (P < 0.001) or that of II in KGS from I (P = 0.020). VD and VDI could better reflect IOP after noise reduction (R2 increased from 0.25 to 0.63, 0.14 to 0.41, both P < 0.001). Our research offered a DL denoising algorithm which improved the quality of AS-OCTA and the accuracy of AS vessel analysis.

Characteristic Assessment of Angiographies at Different Depths with AS-OCTA: Implication for Functions of Post-Trabeculectomy Filtering Bleb.

This study aimed to analyze the quantitative vascular biomarkers of filtering bleb function at different depths using anterior segment optical coherence tomography angiography (AS-OCTA). This cross-sectional study is registered on Clinicaltrails.gov (NCT 04515017). Forty-six eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma that had undergone trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C for more than six months were included. Vessel density (VD) and vessel diameter index (VDI) in the superficial layer (SL), Tenon’s layer (TL), and deep layer (DL) of the bleb were obtained. The VD and VDI were higher in the failure group (both p = 0.000). Significant correlations were found between the SL, TL, DL’s VDI, and IOP in the success group (p = 0.013, 0.016, 0.031, respectively). The VD of the TL and DL were related to IOP in the failure group (p = 0.012, 0.009). Tenon’s VD (TVD) and Tenon’s VDI (TVDI) correlated with IOP adjusting for TVD, TVDI, and the Indiana Bleb Appearance Grading Scale (IBAGS) (p = 0.009, 0.043) or Kenfeld grading system (KGS) (p = 0.011, 0.016). The area under curve (AUC) of the TVD, TVDI, IBAGS, and KGS to predict surgery failure were 0.960, 0.925, 0.770, and 0.850. AS-OCTA realized the quantitative evaluation of vessels, especially the invisible vascularity beneath the conjunctiva. TVD and TVDI as detected by AS-OCTA better reflected bleb function than conventional grading systems.

Changes in the morphology of the hyperemic blebs in eyes undergone trabeculectomy with mitomycin C after injection of triamcinolone acetonide during one-year follow-up.

To track changes in the morphology of hyperemic blebs in eyes undergone trabeculectomy with mitomycin C 0.02% (MMC) after triamcinolone acetonide (TA) injection. A total of 30 eyes of 30 patients with localized or diffuse hyperemia after trabeculectomy with MMC were enrolled in this prospective interventional case series. Two milligrams of TA were injected at the site of maximal injection. Bleb morphology was graded using Indiana Bleb Appearance Grading Scale (IBAGS), and the Moorfields Bleb Grading System (MBGS) 1week, 1month, 3months, 6months, and 1year after injection. Failure was defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) more than predefined target IOP for each eye, need for an additional surgical procedure, IOP less than 6mmHg, and loss of Light Perception (LP) vision. A total of 27 patients completed a 1-year follow-up period and were included in the final analysis. The mean time interval from trabeculectomy to injection of TA was 5.98 ± 2.57weeks. The bleb height and vascularity in the IBAGS system decreased significantly after the intervention (p < 0.05), with an increase in bleb extension (p = 0.006). Using MBGS, the bleb area did not change significantly following TA injection (p = 0.056) but its height and vascularity significantly decreased in both central and peripheral areas and the surrounding conjunctiva (p = 0.032). The development of a mature cataract was the only complication that could be attributed to TA injection. Injection of TA in hyperemic failing blebs improves bleb morphology by decreasing vascularity and height while increasing the extent with an acceptable safety profile.

One-Year Randomized Comparison of Safety and Efficacy of Trabeculectomy with Mitomycin C Sub-Tenon Injection versus Mitomycin C-Infused Sponges

To compare the safety and efficacy of sub-Tenon injection of mitomycin C (MMC) with application of MMC-infused sponges during trabeculectomy. Single-center randomized clinical trial. A total of 56 eyes of 49 patients with open-angle glaucoma were included in this clinical trial. In this single-center randomized clinical trial, 56 eyes of 49 patients underwent trabeculectomy with MMC for primary open-angle glaucoma. Patients were randomized into 2 groups. The injection group received a sub-Tenon injection of 0.15 ml of 0.01% MMC diluted with preservative free lidocaine 2% (n= 27). In the sponges group, sponges soaked in 0.02% MMC were applied under the Tenon's capsule and the scleral flap for 2 minutes (n= 29). Intraocular pressure, endothelial cell count, best-corrected visual acuity, and number of intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering medications were assessed before surgery and 1 week; 1, 3, and 6 months; and 1 year after surgery. Complete success was defined as IOP of 14 mmHg or less without medication. Bleb morphologic features were assessed using the Indiana Bleb Appearance Grading Scale bleb grading system. Intraocular pressure reduction was the primary outcome. Bleb morphologic features and endothelial cell counts (ECCs) were secondary outcomes. Mean IOP in the sponges group decreased from 30.5 ± 7.4 mmHg at baseline to 12.6 ± 5.9 mmHg at 1 year (P < 0.001); in the injection group, IOP decreased from 29.3 ± 6.8 mmHg at baseline to 12.7 ± 4.3 mmHg at 1 year (P < 0.001). No difference in IOP between the 2 groups was noted at any visit (P < 0.001). Surgical success was 81.5% and 82.8% in the injection and sponges groups, respectively, at 1 year. Mean ECC values were unchanged from baseline to 1 year after surgery for both groups (P= 0.444). Complication rates were similar in the 2 groups. Bleb morphologic features showed differences in the appearance and grading of the blebs between the 2 groups at 1 year, showing larger extent, lower height, and less vascularization in the injection group. Sub-Tenon injection of MMC during trabeculectomy seems to be as safe and as efficacious as conventional application of MMC with sponges at 1 year after surgery. Bleb morphologic features show notable differences that may suggest a better long-term outcome.

Analysis of bleb morphology after CLASS with ultrasound biomicroscopy and clinical grading scale.

Filtration in the area subjected to CO2 laser-assisted sclerectomy surgery (CLASS) is described using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and the clinical grading scale to evaluate the mechanism of intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction. Twenty-eight patients with open-angle glaucoma underwent CLASS. The Indiana Bleb Appearance Grading Scale evaluation was performed 1 month after surgery to determine bleb height, extent, vascularity, and leakage. UBM was used to describe and measure the surgical area. Bleb morphology, the size of the scleral lake, scleral route, and trabeculodescemetic membrane (TDM) thickness were examined. One month after CLASS, IOP significantly decreased from 20.46 ± 3.92 mmHg to 12.71 ± 2.99 mmHg, and the anterior chamber depth significantly more shallow, from 2.75 ± 0.36 mm to 2.61 ± 0.33 mm(p < 0.05). Shallow uplift occurred in 71.43% of the blebs, and 64.29% of the blebs were within 1 to 2 h; 82.15% showed mild or moderate vascular hyperemia, and the Seidel test was negative. UBM showed that all eyes had an intact TDM, with a mean thickness of 99.3 ± 22.2 μm; 21 eyes (75%) had L-type (low reflective). The scleral lake anteroposterior length, height, and transversal length were 2.247 ± 1.831 mm, 0.520 ± 0.234 mm, and 3.312 ± 0.423 mm, respectively. The TDM thickness and postoperative IOP were positively correlated, and the size of the scleral lake was not correlated with IOP reduction. Four eyes (14.29%) exhibited cyclodialysis. UBM examination indicated the aqueous humor drainage route. In the early stage after CLASS, subconjunctival and choroidal drainage routes might be the major mechanism underlying IOP reduction. Mild and moderate congestion of bleb blood vessels warrant attention to avoid early bleb scarring.

Surgical site characteristics after CLASS followed by ultrasound biomicroscopy and clinical grading scale: a 2-year follow-up.

This study describes the imaging of the filtering area in CO2 laser-assisted sclerectomy surgery (CLASS) using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) combined with the Indiana Bleb Appearance Grading Scale (IBAGS) and evaluates the mechanism by which CLASS lowers the intraocular pressure (IOP). Twenty-eight cases (28 eyes) of primary open-angle glaucoma that could not be controlled by drugs underwent CLASS. At 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after surgery, IBAGS was used to evaluate the external morphology of the filtering blebs, and UBM was used to describe and measure their internal structure. During the early period after CLASS, most cases showed diffuse filtering blebs with a serious degree of congestion. At the end of follow-up, most cases did not present filtering blebs. All patients showed an intact and thin trabeculodescemetic membrane (TDM) with an average thickness of 0.094 ± 0.017 mm. The scleral reservoir size gradually decreased over time and tended to stabilize after 18 months. At 3 and 6 months after surgery, 53.57% of the patients had abnormalities in the TDM area, and after laser goniopuncture treatment, the scleral reservoir became slightly larger and the IOP decreased. The TDM thickness was not correlated with postoperative IOP, and the scleral reservoir size was negatively correlated with IOP. During the early phase after CLASS, the subconjunctival and suprachoroidal pathways may be the main mechanisms lowering IOP; over time, internal drainage pathways such as the intrascleral, trabecular-meshwork, and suprachoroidal pathways play greater roles in lowering IOP.

A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Subconjunctival Injection to Direct Scleral Application of Mitomycin C in Trabeculectomy

To compare the efficacy of intraoperative scleral application with subconjunctival injection of mitomycin C (MMC) in trabeculectomy. Prospective, randomized, interventional study. This study took place in a single clinical practice in an academic setting. Patients had medically uncontrolled glaucoma as indicated by high intraocular pressure (IOP), worsening visual field, or optic nerve head changes in whom primary trabeculectomy was indicated. Patients were older than 18 years with medically uncontrolled glaucoma and no history of incisional glaucoma surgery. Patients were randomized to MMC delivered by preoperative subconjunctival injection or by intraoperative direct scleral application using surgical sponges during trabeculectomy. Comprehensive eye examinations were conducted at 1day, 1week, 6weeks, 3months, and 6months postoperatively. Subconjunctival 5-fluorouracil injections were given postoperatively, as needed. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who demonstrated IOP of <21mm Hg and ≥30% reduction in IOP from baseline. Secondary outcome measures included the number of IOP-lowering medications, bleb morphology using the Indiana Bleb Appearance Grading Scale, and complication rates. Participants (n= 100) were randomized into groups matched for baseline demographics, glaucoma status, and baseline IOP. At 6months, there were no significant differences between the injection (n= 38) and sponge (n= 40) groups in surgical success (P= .357), mean IOP (P= .707), number of glaucoma medications (P= 1.000), bleb height (P= .625), bleb extension (P= .216), bleb vascularity (P= .672), or complications rates. Both techniques of MMC delivery (subconjunctival injection and direct scleral application) resulted in comparable surgical outcomes and bleb morphologies.

Quantitative analysis of functional filtering bleb size using Mask R-CNN.

BackgroundDeep learning has had a large effect on medical fields, including ophthalmology. The goal of this study was to quantitatively analyze the functional filtering bleb size with Mask R-CNN.MethodsThis observational study employed eighty-three images of post-trabeculectomy functional filtering blebs. The images were divided into training and test groups and scored according to the Indiana Bleb Appearance Grading Scale (IBAGS) system. Then, 70 images from the training group were used to train an automatic detection system based on Mask R-CNN and perform a quantitative analysis of the function bleb size. Thirteen images from the test group were used to evaluate the model. During the training process, left and right image-flipping algorithms were used for data augmentation. Finally, the correlation between the functional filtering bleb area and the intraocular pressure (IOP) was analyzed.ResultsThe 83 functional filtering blebs have similar morphological features. According to IBAGS, the functional filtering blebs have a high incidence of E1/E2, H1/H2, and V0/V1. Our Mask R-CNN-based model using the selected parameters achieves good results on the training group after a 200-epoch training process. All the Intersection over Union (IoU) scores exceeded 93% on the test group. The Spearman correlation coefficient between the area of functional filtering blebs and the IOP value was −0.757 (P<0.05).ConclusionsDeep learning is a powerful tool for quantitatively analyzing the functional filtering bleb size. This technique is suitable for use in monitoring post-trabeculectomy filtering blebs in the future.

Bleb grading by photographs versus bleb grading by slit-lamp examination.

Using a bleb-grading system clinically facilitates long-term follow-up of patients with previous glaucoma surgery. Clinical evaluation of these patients can be challenging for untrained ophthalmologists. Morphological bleb configuration might influence planning of follow-up visits in glaucoma patients due to different and individual prognosis after trabeculectomy. In this study, we compared the MaBAGS (Mainz Bleb Appearance Grading System), a classification system for filtering blebs with other classification systems (MBGS/Moorfields Bleb Grading System, IBAGS/Indiana Bleb Appearance Grading Scale) in reference to usability and reliability and compare it to grading by bleb photographs. Forty-two eyes of 31 patients after trabeculectomy were included. Three observers, two senior and one junior observer, graded all blebs using MaBAGS, MBGS and IBAGS during slit-lamp examination. Bleb photographs were reviewed at least 4weeks after clinical examination. Statistical analysis was performed to determine agreement between the observers using intraclass correlation coefficients. With MaBAGS, excellent and good levels of agreement were found for vascularity indices, Seidel test and transparency. Parameters for area and height yielded moderate agreement, while indices for conjunctival mobility and microcysts failed to show satisfying levels of agreement. Using MBGS resulted in excellent and good interobserver consistency for parameters regarding subconjunctival blood, Seidel test, and central and peripheral vascularity. Height and nonbleb vascularity reached moderate levels of agreement. Agreement for area parameters was low. With IBAGS, good levels of agreement were found for height and vascularity, and moderate for extent. In all grading systems, consistency was considerably better between the two experienced observers compared to the inexperienced grader. MaBAGS shows good reproducibility. Using such a grading system improves precision of the description of a highly variable clinical finding. The reliability of grading by slit-lamp examination exceeds that of grading on photographs.

Subconjunctival Bevacizumab versus Mitomycin C Adjunctive to Subscleral Trabeculectomy

Background: trabeculectomy was considered gold standard procedure for glaucoma treatment. Mitomycin C (MMC) and bevacizumab (BVZ) has been used to increase trabeculectomy success rates. Objective: to compare the outcome of subscleral trabeculectomy with subconjunctival injection of BVZ with that of trabeculectomy with MMC. Patients and Methods: a prospective, non-randomized, comparative study design was used. Thirty eyes from thirty patients with uncontrolled glaucoma were enrolled. Fifteen eyes underwent subscleral trabeculectomy with intraoperative use of MMC (0.2mg/ml for 3 minutes) (group I) and 15 eyes underwent subscleral trabeculectomy with subconjunctival bevacizumab injection (1.25mg/0.1ml) (group II). The outcome measures were the best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), number of IOP-lowering medications, complications, and bleb morphologic features (based on the Indiana Bleb Appearance Grading Scale). Results: thirty eyes of thirty patients fulfilled inclusion criteria and assigned to one of two study groups. Each study group included fifteen eyes of fifteen patients. Participants were 14 males and 16 females. Mean ages of patients assigned to MMC and BVZ were 54.0±7.33 and5.7±6.9 years respectively. The difference in mean age was statistically insignificant among treatment groups (p=0.740). Mean number of pre-operative anti-glaucoma medications used by MMC and BVZ treatment groups were 2.47±0.52 and 2.47±0.52 with no significant difference among treatment groups (p=1.00). Conclusions: adjunctive subconjunctival bevacizumab with trabeculectomy is effective in controlling the IOP profile and the post-operative IOP reduction showed no statistically significant different in both group at all postoperative visits. Comparable success rates were achieved in the two groups.

Rosiglitazone Treatment Prevents Postoperative Fibrosis in a Rabbit Model of Glaucoma Filtration Surgery.

To evaluate the potential antifibrotic effect of rosiglitazone (RSG), a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ)-selective agonist, on subconjunctival fibrosis in a rabbit model of glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS) in vivo, and to investigate the underlying mechanisms in human Tenon's fibroblasts (HTFs) in vitro. GFS were performed on adult male New Zealand white rabbits with chronic ocular hypertension previously established by injections of 2% methylcellulose into the anterior chamber. Rabbits were treated by RSG, mitomycin C (MMC) or 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) intraoperatively. The morphology of filtering blebs was evaluated by Indiana Bleb Appearance Grading Scale (IBAGS) scoring. Expression of profibrotic genes was determined by quantitative PCR, immunoblot, and/or histochemical analysis. In vitro studies were performed in a transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-based cell model of fibrosis. Autophagy was evaluated by the formation of autophagosomes and autolysosomes using fluorescent and transmission electron microscopy and by expression of key mediators in the autophagic pathway. RSG treatment ameliorated a rebound intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation, prolonged the survival of filtering blebs, and attenuated subconjunctival fibrosis in rabbits following trabeculectomy. Pretreatment of HTFs with RSG inhibited TGF-β1-induced expression of profibrotic genes encoding specificity protein 1, connective tissue growth factor, and α smooth muscle actin. RSG augmented TGF-β1-induced autophagy in HTFs via a beclin1/VPS34-dependent mechanism. Augmentation of autophagy is associated with inhibition of TGF-β1-induced profibrotic gene expression by RSG. RSG treatment prevents subconjunctival fibrosis after GFS by inhibition of profibrotic gene expression through a mechanism involved in promoting autophagy in local fibroblasts. RSG represents a novel antifibrotic drug with the potential to improve the success rate of GFS.

Evaluation of Functional Filtering Bleb Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography.

PurposeThis study investigated whether filtering blebs can be evaluated using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) and compared vascularity parameters with conventional bleb grading systems.MethodsA total of 92 patients with glaucoma, who underwent mitomycin C–augmented trabeculectomy, were enrolled in this study, and 92 eyes were assessed in total. The participants underwent OCT-A in external mode and anterior segment photography for bleb evaluation. For evaluation of bleb vascularity, a blinded observer carefully drew the bleb area on the original OCT-A image using a semiautomated program that calculated the color and brightness densities of the selected area. A blinded observer also classified the grades of the bleb vessels using the Indiana Bleb Appearance Grading Scale (IBAGS) and Moorfields Bleb Grading System (MBGS). The vascularity parameters using OCT-A were compared with the IBAGS and MBGS results. In addition, the correlation between intraocular pressure (IOP) and the bleb vascularity parameters was assessed.ResultsVessel density measured by OCT-A demonstrated excellent inter- and intraobserver reproducibility. The color and brightness densities were positively correlated with the IBAGS and MBGS vascularity scores. There was no difference in accuracy when predicting IOP risk using vascularity scores from the IBAGS and MBGS or when estimating IOP risk using the color and brightness densities on the net reclassification index.ConclusionsBleb evaluation using OCT-A can evaluate vessel vascularity and showed correlation to the IBAGS and MBGS vascularity grading.Translational RelevanceBleb vascularity measurements using OCT-A could potentially provide objective and quantitative vessel parameters for bleb evaluation following trabeculectomy.

Tear film stability after trabeculectomy and its relationship with bleb morphology

Objective: To investigate the tear film stability after trabeculectomy and its relationship with bleb morphology using Optical Quality Analysis System Ⅱ (OQAS Ⅱ). Methods: A cross-sectional study. Glaucoma patients undergoing trabeculectomy in the Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from November 2011 to November 2016 were invited by telephone to perform optical quality, bleb photography, and break-up time examinations, and history of surgeries and medications was collected. Bleb morphology was graded according to the Indiana bleb appearance grading scale. The tear film stability was the average objective scatter index value measured using OQAS Ⅱ for 10 seconds after blinking minus the baseline objective scatter index. The higher the tear film stability value, the worse the stability. The difference in the tear film stability between the surgical eyes and non-surgical eyes was compared by the Mann-Whitney U test, and the relationships between the optical quality, bleb height, extent and vascularity were compared by the Kruskal-Wallis H test. Results: Sixty-three patients (76 eyes) were enrolled in the study, including 55 surgical eyes and 21 non-surgical eyes. The mean follow-up time was (39.6±26.2) months.In the surgical and non-surgical eyes, the M(Q(R)) of tear film stability was 0.46 (0.86) and 0.23 (0.41), respectively. The tear film stability in the surgical eyes was reduced compared to the non-surgical eyes (P=0.044). The trabeculectomy group was divided into three subgroups according to the height of the filtering bleb: H0 (17 eyes), H1 (24 eyes) and H2-3 (14 eyes). The M(Q(R)) of tear film stability in the three subgroups was 0.40(0.68), 0.70(1.02) and 0.40(1.24), respectively, with no statistically significant difference detected (P=0.481). According to the bleb extent, the surgical group was divided into two subgroups: E0-1 (36 eyes) and E2-3 (19 eyes). The M(Q(R)) of optical quality in the two subgroups was 0.63 (0.78) and 0.26(1.17), respectively, with no significant difference detected (P=0.261). According to the degree of bleb vascularity, the surgical group was divided into three subgroups: V0 (25 eyes), V1 (14 eyes), and V2-3 (16 eyes). The M(Q(R)) of optical quality in the three subgroups was 0.39 (0.69), 0.55 (1.18) and 0.63 (1.24), respectively, with no significant difference (P=0.401). Conclusion: Although tear film stability decrease after trabeculectomy, the decrease is not associated with the bleb morphology. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2019, 55:214-219).

Five Years' Outcomes of Trabeculectomy with Cross-linked Sodium Hyaluronate Gel Implantation for Chinese Glaucoma Patients.

Background:Trabeculectomy is the most efficient surgical treatment. Prevention failure of bleb cicatrix would lead to unsatisfactory postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) controlling and unsatisfactory success rate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the 5-year outcomes of trabeculectomy with a cross-linked sodium hyaluronate gel implantation for Chinese glaucoma patients.Methods:This is a prospective, case-controlled study. Patients who were to be applied first-time trabeculectomy in the Department of Ophthalmology of Peking University Third Hospital between 2010 and 2012 were included in the study. Totally, 60 eyes were randomly assigned to the trabeculectomy group (TA group) or the trabeculectomy with cross-linked sodium hyaluronate gel implantation group (TH group). Follow-up was finished at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years after the operation. The statistical index of demographic data, IOP, bleb shape, and any complications or medications or surgical procedures were recorded and assessed by SPSS 19.0 software through independent t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Pearson's Chi-square test, respectively.Results:The baseline IOP was comparable between the two groups (t= −1.00, P= 0.32) while the postoperative IOP was significantly lower in the TH group at 1, 3 and 5 years' time points (P = 0.00, P= 0.01 and P = 0.01, respectively). According to the Indiana Bleb Appearance Grading Scale, the height and extent of bleb were better in the TH group at all follow-up time points (P < 0.05), however, the comparison of bleb vascularity showed no statistical difference (P > 0.05). TA group had a higher percentage of complications (13% vs. 3%) compared to TH group; however, there was no statistical difference in the comparison of each statistical item (P > 0.05, respectively). The complete success at 5 years was higher in the TH group than that in the TA group (78% vs. 54%, P = 0.03).Conclusion:Our results suggested that implantation of cross-linked sodium hyaluronate gel with trabeculectomy was more efficient and would improve the prognosis of glaucoma patients.

Treatment Outcomes of Mitomycin C-Augmented Trabeculectomy, Sub-Tenon Injection versus Soaked Sponges, after 3 Years of Follow-up: A Randomized Clinical Trial

To report the 3-year outcome of trabeculectomy with mitomycin C (MMC)-soaked sponges versus intra-Tenon injection of MMC in eyes with uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma. Randomized clinical trial. Eighty-two consecutive patients with uncontrolled primary open-angle glaucoma. Participants were randomized either to intra-Tenon injection of 0.1 ml of 0.01% MMC (TI group) or 0.02% subconjunctival application of MMC-soaked sponges (TS group). Patients were followed up for 3 years after surgery. The data for 73 eyes were included in the final analysis. The primary outcome measure was the surgical success, defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) more than 5 mmHg and <21 mmHg, and IOP reduction of 20% or more from baseline, no reoperation for glaucoma, and no loss of light perception vision. Secondary outcome measures were IOP, glaucoma medications, best-corrected visual acuity (VA), bleb morphologic features according to the Indiana Bleb Appearance Grading Scale, complications, and endothelial cell count changes. The cumulative probability of success at 3-year follow-up was 72.2% in the TI group and 65.1% in the TS group (P= 0.30). Uncontrolled IOP was the most common reason for failure. The mean preoperative IOP was 22.4±4.6 mmHg with an average of 3.1±1.0 medications. At 3 years, final IOP was 15.3±3.7 mmHg in the TI group and 16.4±3.5 mmHg in the TS group (P= 0.55). Mean glaucoma number of medications was 0.9±1.1 and 1.1±1.1 in the TI and TS groups, respectively (P= 0.54). Blebs tended to be more diffuse (P= 0.032), less vascularized (P= 0.013), and more shallow (P= 0.012) after intra-Tenon injection. Visual outcomes and endothelial cell changes were similar in both groups (P= 0.47 and P= 0.94, respectively). Although the success rate and IOP reduction were comparable with both techniques, bleb morphologic parameters were more favorable after intra-Tenon injection of 0.1 ml of 0.01% MMC.

Evaluation of intraoperative use of mitomycin C in subscleral trabeculectomy surgery

Objective The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness and complications of mitomycin C (MMC) use in subscleral trabeculectomy surgery. Background MMC is an antimetabolite agent used to limit the scarring process, which is the main cause of failure of subscleral trabeculectomy surgery. However, it may increase the incidence of adverse effects. Patients and methods A prospective interventional study involving 35 eyes of 28 patients having glaucoma was conducted. All of them underwent subscleral trabeculectomy with adjuvant intraoperative use of MMC (0.2 mg/ml) for 2 min, and were followed up for at least 9 months recording intraocular pressure (IOP) testing, best corrected visual acuity, Seidel testing, bleb grading according to the Indiana bleb appearance grading scale, and complications if present. Results The mean IOP decreased from 32.03 mmHg preoperatively to 13.83 mmHg at 9 months postoperatively. The mean IOP drop registered was 56.82%. Overall, 29 (82.9%) eyes ended with complete success, three (8.6%) eyes ended with qualified success, and three (8.6%) eyes failed. The incidence of complications was 51.5%, and most of them were transient and self-limited conditions. Further management, including both medications and minor procedures, improved the postoperative outcomes. Conclusion MMC of 0.2 mg/ml used for 2 min intraoperatively is an effective adjunctive treatment in patients with glaucoma; however, with this dose, it is associated with some complications. So it is a double-edged weapon that should be used wisely, only when indicated, with optimum concentration and duration.

Predictive value of early postoperative IOP and bleb morphology in Mitomycin-C augmented trabeculectomy.

Background: To determine the predictive value of postoperative bleb morphological features and intraocular pressure (IOP) on the success rate of trabeculectomy. Methods: In this prospective interventional case series, we analyzed for one year 80 consecutive primary open angle glaucoma patients who underwent mitomycin-augmented trabeculectomy. Bleb morphology was scored using the Indiana bleb appearance grading scale (IBAGS). Success was defined as IOP ≤15 mmHg at 12 months. We applied a multivariable regression analysis and determined the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results: The mean age of participants was 62±12.3 years in the success and 63.2±16.3 years in the failure group (P= 0.430) with equal gender distribution (P=0.911). IOPs on day 1, 7 and 30 were similar in both (P= 0.193, 0.639, and 0.238, respectively.) The AUC of IOP at day 1, day 7 and 30 for predicting a successful outcome was 0.355, 0.452, and 0.80, respectively. The AUC for bleb morphology parameters of bleb height, extension, and vascularization, on day 14 were 0.368, 0.408, and 0.549, respectively. Values for day 30 were 0.428, 0.563, and 0.654. IOP change from day 1 to day 30 was a good predictor of failure (AUC=0.838, 95% CI: 0.704 to 0.971) with a change of more than 3 mmHg predicting failure with a sensitivity of 82.5% (95% CI: 68 to 91%) and a specificity of 87.5% (95% CI: 53 to 98%). Conclusions: IOP on day 30 had a fair to good accuracy while bleb features failed to predict success except bleb vascularity that had a poor to fair accuracy. An IOP increase more than 3 mmHg during the first 30 days was a good predictor of failure.

Predictive value of early postoperative IOP and bleb morphology in Mitomycin-C augmented trabeculectomy

Background: To determine the predictive value of postoperative bleb morphological features and intraocular pressure (IOP) on the success rate of trabeculectomy. Methods: In this prospective interventional case series, we analyzed for one year 80 consecutive primary open angle glaucoma patients who underwent mitomycin-augmented trabeculectomy. Bleb morphology was scored using the Indiana bleb appearance grading scale (IBAGS). Success was defined as IOP ≤15 mmHg at 12 months. We applied a multivariable regression analysis and determined the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results: The mean age of participants was 62±12.3 years in the success and 63.2±16.3 years in the failure group (P= 0.430) with equal gender distribution (P=0.911). IOPs on day 1, 7 and 30 were similar in both (P= 0.193, 0.639, and 0.238, respectively.) The AUC of IOP at day 1, day 7 and 30 for predicting a successful outcome was 0.355, 0.452, and 0.80, respectively. The AUC for bleb morphology parameters of bleb height, extension, and vascularization, on day 14 were 0.368, 0.408, and 0.549, respectively. Values for day 30 were 0.428, 0.563, and 0.654. IOP change from day 1 to day 30 was a good predictor of failure (AUC=0.838, 95% CI: 0.704 to 0.971) with a change of more than 3 mmHg predicting failure with a sensitivity of 82.5% (95% CI: 68 to 91%) and a specificity of 87.5% (95% CI: 53 to 98%). Conclusions: IOP on day 30 had a fair to good accuracy while bleb features failed to predict success except bleb vascularity that had a poor to fair accuracy. An IOP increase more than 3 mmHg during the first 30 days was a good predictor of failure.

Predictive value of early postoperative IOP and bleb morphology in Mitomycin-C augmented trabeculectomy

Background: Our aim was to determine the predictive value of postoperative bleb morphological features and intraocular pressure (IOP) on the success rate of trabeculectomy. Methods: In this prospective interventional case series, we analyzed for one year 80 consecutive primary open angle glaucoma patients who underwent mitomycin-augmented trabeculectomy. Bleb morphology was scored using the Indiana bleb appearance grading scale (IBAGS). Success was defined as IOP ≤15 mmHg with or without medications at 12 months. We tested for IOP and bleb morphological differences between groups, applied a multivariable regression analysis and determined the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results: Age and gender were equally distributed (62.3±13.1 years, P=0.911). IOP of patients with a successful outcome did not differ from unsuccessful ones on day 1, 7 and 30 (all P≥0.2). The AUC of IOP at day 1, day 7 and 30 for predicting a successful outcome was 0.355, 0.452, and 0.80, respectively. The AUC for bleb morphology parameters, bleb height, extension, and vascularization, on day 14 were 0.368, 0.408, and 0.549, respectively. Values for day 30 were 0.428, 0.563, and 0.654. IOP change from day 1 to day 30 was a good predictor of failure (AUC=0.838, 95% CI: 0.704 to 0.971) with a change of more than 3 mmHg predicting failure with a sensitivity of 82.5% (95% CI: 68 to 91%) and a specificity of 87.5% (95% CI: 53 to 98%). Conclusions: The postoperative IOP on day 30 had a fair to good accuracy while the bleb features failed to predict a successful outcome. An IOP increase by as little as more than 3 mmHg during the first 30 days was a good predictor of failure.

Comparison of bleb morphology between trabeculectomy and deep sclerectomy using a clinical grading scale and anterior segment optical coherence tomography

The role of the filtration bleb for IOP management following trabeculectomy (TRAB) and deep sclerectomy (DS) in glaucoma is highlighted in this study. This study serves to analyse the bleb morphology and IOP using the Indiana Bleb Appearance Grading Scale (IBAGS) and the anterior-segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) postoperatively and at 3 months. The retrospective study was performed by a single surgeon. Twenty-eight patients with open-angle glaucoma were recruited into the study, 14 in each of the TRAB (fornix) and DS groups. The surgical intervention was dependent on the irido-corneal angle configuration on gonioscopy. Pre-operatively, we collected visual acuity, medications and IOP. Three months postoperatively, we used the IBAGS to assess bleb morphology, including bleb height, extent, vascularity and leak. AS-OCT was also used to assess bleb height, thickness, cyst presence and posterior and intrascleral fluid. Central corneal thickness and mean IOP at 3 months postoperatively were significantly lower in the TRAB group (7.75 vs. 12.27 mmHg; P = 0.005). Blebs that were significantly higher, broader and less vascular compared with DS were displayed by TRAB eyes. The AS-OCT measurements confirmed TRAB eyes had significantly higher blebs and increased intrascleral fluid compared with DS eyes. Significant differences in bleb morphology, correlating with improved IOP outcomes in TRAB eyes compared with DS eyes in patients with open-angle glaucoma, were showed by both the IBAGS and AS-OCT. Despite the limitations of each classification system, a higher bleb with an increased aqueous reservoir is associated with optimal IOP results.