Previous Glaucoma Surgery Research Articles

Efficacy and safety of ultrasonic circular cyclocoagulation with second-generation probe in glaucoma: A retrospective study.

BackgroundTo assess the efficacy and safety of the second-generation probe of ultrasonic circular cyclocoagulation (UC3) in naive or refractory glaucoma, with a 6-month follow-up.MethodsA retrospective consecutive case-series study included patients having a UC3 procedure with the second-generation probe of the EyeOP1 device, intraocular pressure (IOP) ≥ 21 mmHg and under maximum tolerated medical treatment, with or without previous glaucoma surgery. Surgical success was defined at the 6-month post-operative visit as IOP > 5 and ≤ 21 mmHg with IOP reduction ≥ 20% from baseline, without any reoperation, and visual acuity better than negative light perception.Results100 patients were included and 97 (97.0%; 97 eyes) attended the 6-month follow-up. At 6 months, surgical success was obtained in 48 eyes (49.5%). Intraocular pressure was reduced from a mean ± SD preoperative value of 28.0 ± 5.6 mmHg to 19.3 ± 7.1 mmHg at 6 months (p<0.0001). The proportion of eyes requiring oral acetazolamide decreased from 57.0% to 30.0% between baseline and 6 months after surgery (p = 0.0007). We observed 15 (15.0%) cases of postsurgical macular edema, 8 (8.0%) of hypotony, and 20 (20.0%) of visual acuity loss > 2 Snellen lines. Postsurgical macular edema was associated with a history of epiretinal membranes, uveitis or retinal detachment. Risk factors for hypotony were a history of diabetes or trabeculectomy.ConclusionsThe second-generation UC3 probe significantly reduced IOP in eyes with naive and refractory glaucoma but severe post-operative complications were often observed. Further studies are needed to better identify responders and decrease the high risk for complications associated with the procedure.

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.

A Novel Surgical Technique for Ahmed Glaucoma Valve Implantation Without Plate Sutures.

The purpose of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of a modified AGV implantation technique without plate sutures. A retrospective case-control study including patients seen in the Glaucoma service of an academic institution. Patients that underwent a modified AGV implantation without plate sutures were included as cases and patients that underwent standard AGV implantation, as controls. Success was defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction >20%, IOP >5 and <21 without the need for additional surgical intervention, and maintenance of light perception. A total of 170 eyes were included. Mean (range) follow-up was 11.2±7.39 (3 to 24) months. There was no statistically significant difference in visual acuity and IOP between the groups during the postoperative period. In a univariate analysis, there was a larger decrease in IOP for the no plate suture group at the 6 months (-15.6±11.6 vs. -11.5±10.5, P=0.04) and 1 year (-16.4±10.4 vs. -11.1±10.4, P=0.02) visits. There was also a larger decrease in number of medications in the no plate suture group in the 3 months (-1.65±1.5 vs. -1.13±1.22, P=0.02), 6 months (-1.55±1.44 vs. -0.98±1.3, P=0.01) and 1 year (-1.70±1.5 vs. -1.04±1.2, P=0.04) visits. However, those differences were not confirmed by a multivariable model after adjusting for glaucoma type and number of previous glaucoma surgeries. No differences in the trajectory of the survival curves were noted between groups (P=0.36). The comparison of short and mid-term outcomes of patients undergoing AGV implantation using both techniques showed similar outcomes and success rates.

Double-Session Micropulse Transscleral Laser (CYCLO G6) as a Primary Surgical Procedure for Glaucoma.

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of double-session micropulse transscleral laser (MP3) as a primary treatment modality for glaucoma. Patients who underwent MP3 therapy with double sessions in each hemifield, with a follow-up period of at least 6 months, were retrospectively considered. Patients were categorized into 2 groups: GI (no previous glaucoma surgery) and GII (with previous glaucoma surgery). Success was defined by either achieving a final intraocular pressure (IOP) between 6 and 18 mm Hg and an IOP reduction of >20%, or a minimum 50% reduction in the number of glaucoma medications, at the last visit, without any serious complications. Eighty-four eyes were included in the GI group and 101 in the GII group, with the latter demonstrating relatively higher preoperative IOP (31.1±5.4 vs. 26.2±6.9 mm Hg, P<0.001). Final IOP (14.9±5.2 vs. 13.6±4.1 mm Hg, P=0.06), average MP3 treatment time (358.0±50.7 vs. 362.7±67.8 s, P=0.5), and follow-up duration (10.8±5.1 vs. 12.3±5.4 mo, P=0.06) were similar between the groups. The percentage reduction with regard to glaucoma medication was higher in GI than in GII (49.1±28.8 vs. 38.8±30.1%, P=0.02). GI underwent fewer MP3 procedures than GII (1.2±0.5 vs. 1.5±0.8, P=0.002). No hypotony or phthisis bulbi was observed in GI (1 and 2 in GII, respectively). Procedural success was noted in 92.9% of the cases in GI and 87.1% in GII. Double-session MP3 therapy could be considered as a safe and effective procedure to treat glaucoma in eyes that have not undergone any previous glaucoma surgery. Primary eyes achieved a success-rate similar to those with refractory glaucoma with fewer MP3 procedures and fewer glaucoma medications.

Surgical outcomes following Muller Muscle-Conjunctival Resection in patients with glaucoma filtering surgery

ABSTRACT Purpose Muller muscle-conjunctiva resection (MMCR) has been often considered to be relatively contraindicated in patients with previous glaucoma surgery. We investigate the glaucoma and ptosis outcomes in patients with glaucoma filtering blebs undergoing MMCR surgery. Methods Retrospective cross-sectional case-control study at a single institution over a 15-year period on eyes of patients > 18 years of age who underwent MMCR surgery were included. Eyes were separated into 2 groups: 1) Ptosis with glaucoma filtering bleb(s) (case group); 2) Ptosis without a glaucoma filtering bleb (control group). The primary outcome measure was bleb failure. Secondary outcome measures were postoperative marginal reflex distance (MRD)1 and change in MRD1. Results 87 eyes from 80 patients met the inclusion criteria, with 29 eyes from 25 patients in the case group and 58 eyes from 55 patients in the control group. The mean (SD) length of MMCR follow-up and glaucoma follow-up after MMCR surgery were 7.3 (15.2) months and 16.4(9.3) respectively. Preoperatively, there were no significant differences between groups in terms of mean (SD) age [73 (13.2) vs 73.4 (13.1) years; p = .79] nor preoperative MRD1 [1.3 (0.2) vs. 1.4 (0.1) mm; p = .90]. There were no bleb-related complications. Three eyes (10.3%) were characterized as postoperative bleb failure. No significant differences in mean postoperative MRD1 nor mean change in MRD1 were noted (p= .34 and p = .15). Conclusions Muller muscle-conjunctiva resection (MMCR) is an apparently safe and effective tool for the management of ptosis in patients with glaucoma filtering blebs.

Double-session micropulse transscleral laser (CYCLO G6) for the treatment of glaucoma.

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of double-session micropulse transscleral (MP3) laser for the treatment of glaucoma. This was a retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent MP3 laser with the standard protocol and were within at least 12months of their follow-up appointments. Eyes were treated at 2000mW with 31.3% duty cycle for 80s per treatment session, with double sessions in each hemifield alternating between upper and lower and upper and lower. Success criterion was defined as a greater than 20% reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) and an IOP between 6 and 18mmHg at the end of the follow-up period. Eighty-nine eyes of seventy-six glaucoma patients were included; 31 of which were considered primary, i.e., no previous glaucoma surgery. The average pre-treatment IOP was 29.9 ± 6.4mmHg. At around 16.7 ± 3.1months of follow-up, the average IOP was 14.8 ± 4.7mmHg (p < 0.001) (28.8 ± 7.4 to 15.7 ± 5.3mmHg, p < 0.001, at 17.0 ± 3.1months in the primary eyes). The number of topical glaucoma medications was reduced from 3.6 ± 0.5 to 1.9 ± 0.9 at the last evaluation (p < 0.001). The best corrected visual acuity in logMAR ranged from 0.41 ± 0.34 preoperatively to 0.45 ± 0.44 at the last visit (p = 0.2), and also remained stable in primary eyes. Success was obtained in 86.5% of the eyes, with 1.5 ± 0.8 procedures, and in 90.3% with 1.2 ± 0.5 MP3 laser procedures in the primary eye group. MP3 laser in two consecutive 80-s sessions was shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of glaucoma. Primary eyes required lower number of MP3 laser procedures.

Efficacy of postoperative management with 5-fluorouracil injections after XEN Gel Stent implantation

PurposeTo evaluate the efficacy of postoperative management with 5-fluorouracil injections after XEN Gel Stent implantation.MethodsProspective real-world evidence study included 39 eyes (of 36 patients) with primary open-angle glaucoma without previous glaucoma surgery and with uncontrolled intraocular pressure (IOP), glaucoma progression, or intolerance to IOP-lowering therapy. Patients underwent mitomycin C-augmented XEN implantation either as a stand-alone procedure or combined with cataract extraction. 5-Fluorouracil subconjunctival injections were a first-choice therapy for bleb failure and were administered according to predetermined criteria (analogous to pro re nata regimen in age-related macular degeneration treatment). Primary outcome was unqualified success, defined as postoperative IOP < 18 mmHg and > 20% reduction from medicated baseline without any antiglaucoma medications and no detected glaucoma progression.ResultsAt median follow-up of 8 months (range 3–24 months), IOP decreased from a medicated baseline value of 23 mmHg (95% CI 21–24 mmHg) to 13 mmHg (95% CI 12–15 mmHg) and number of medications decreased from 3 (95% CI 2–3) to 0 (p < 0.0001 for both). Median number of 5-fluorouracil injections per eye was 3 (95% CI 2–3), and median time to first injection was 0.5 months (95% CI 0.25–3 months) after surgery. Thirteen eyes (33.3%) underwent ≥ 1 needling, and surgical revision was performed in three cases (7.7%). The primary outcome measure, which allows performing additional procedures, was achieved in 27 eyes (69%).Conclusions5-Fluorouracil subconjunctival injections are safe and effective in postoperative management of bleb failure after XEN implantation and represent a viable alternative to other methods.

Paediatric endophthalmitis: a UK retrospective study.

Paediatric endophthalmitis is a severe but rare complication of intraocular surgery, penetrating trauma and far less commonly extra-ocular surgery or endogenous origin. We set out to establish the incidence and risk factors of exogenous endophthalmitis in children, and to develop an evidence-based protocol that can be used for treatment of suspected exogenous endophthalmitis in children. Microbiology reports and operation numbers were obtained from two large tertiary referral hospitals sharing 24-h paediatric ophthalmology cover for the period January 2009-December 2016. All cases of aqueous and/or vitreous tap performed on children aged ≤18 years were identified and case notes reviewed for complete information on each case. Sixteen cases were eligible for inclusion as 'postoperative endophthalmitis': complete data was found on 13 cases. The incidence of postoperative endophthalmitis was 0.17% over 7 years. The mean age of presentation was 5.5 years (range from 7 months to 16 years and 9 months), from 3 days-78 months post operatively. In all, 11/13 had at least one glaucoma procedure. Microbiology results showed growth in 8/13. Most isolates were Gram-positive bacteria but Gram-negatives were also isolated and in one case Candida from a conjunctival swab. The antibiotic regime varied depending on age, organism identified and sensitivities. In all, 9/13 had hand movement or worse vision after treatment. Paediatric endophthalmitis may present to any paediatric/general ophthalmologist. It is a rare but devastating condition with poor visual prognosis, requiring prompt recognition and aggressive management. Previous glaucoma surgery is a long-term risk factor in our local paediatric population. Based on our study, an evidence-based protocol for management is proposed in order to improve outcomes.

Repeat corneal transplantation in Auckland, New Zealand: Indications, visual outcomes and risk factors for repeat keratoplasty failure.

In New Zealand, repeat keratoplasty has become the second leading indication for corneal transplantation. To report the indications, outcomes and survival of repeat keratoplasty and evaluate the risk factors for graft failure. Retrospective study in a public corneal service. Two hundred nineteen patients undergoing 279 repeat keratoplasty procedures during 1991-2017. The New Zealand National Eye Bank prospectively collects data on all corneal transplants. This was utilized to identify patients undergoing repeat keratoplasty in Auckland. Clinical records were retrospectively reviewed. Graft survival and visual outcome. The repeat keratoplasty technique was penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in 242 cases (86.7%) and endothelial keratoplasty in 37 (13.3%). The most common primary indication was keratoconus (46.6%). The most common indication for repeat keratoplasty was endothelial decompensation (37.6%). For PK performed as a repeat keratoplasty, the median survival in years was 12.0 for first, 3.5 for second and 2.3 for third repeat keratoplasty. Keratoconus had the longest graft survival (median 13.0 years). In surviving grafts, median visual acuity was 6/15 at 1 year and 6/12 at 2 years. On multivariate analysis, regraft number (P = .022), non-European ethnicity (P = .007), concurrent surgical procedure (P < .0005), lower donor endothelial density (P = .028), previous glaucoma surgery (P < .0005), postoperative raised intraocular pressure (P = .001) and graft rejection (P = .032) were associated with keratoplasty failure. Repeat keratoplasty survival is affected by multiple interacting factors and prognosis worsens with each subsequent regraft. These results will help guide clinicians in addressing patients' individual risk factors when embarking on repeat corneal transplant surgery.

Descemet's stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) in failed penetrating keratoplasty patients: graft survival rate and its associated factors

Objective: To explore graft survival rate and its associated factors of DSAEK in patients with endothelial decompensation after penetrating keratoplasty (PKP). Methods: A retrospective case study was conducted, including 51 patients (51 eyes) that underwent DSAEK for endothelial decompensation after PKP in Department of Ophthalmology in Peking University Third Hospital from June 2009 to September 2017. The mean recipient age was (43.3±21.0) years. There were 36 males and 15 females. Data comprising demographic details,surgical methods, complications,follow-up durations,final states of grafts,preoperative and postoperative risk factors were collected. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to determine the cumulative probability of graft survival. Cox regression model was developed to examine for factors associated with graft survival. Results: Among 51 eyes,the overall graft survival rate was 78%(40/51). The cumulative probability was 85% (95%CI: 0.73-0.96) and 69% (95%CI: 0.52-0.86) at 1 year and 2 years, respectively. The median survival time was 42 months. The diameter of DSAEK graft and postoperative intraocular pressure correlated with the long-term survival of graft. Larger diameter of DSAEK graft was a protective factor for graft survival (HR=0.29, 95%CI: 0.12-0.73), while postoperative high intraocular pressure was a risk factor (HR=1.08, 95%CI: 1.00-1.16, HR=1.10, 95%CI:1.01-1.12). Recipient age, sex, lens status, the number of previous PKPs and previous glaucoma surgery had no significant effect on long-term survival (P>0.05). Conclusions: DSAEK is an effective treatment for endothelial decompensation after PKP,with favorable graft survival rate. Larger diameter of graft is beneficial to the long-term survival,while high postoperative intraocular pressure is a risk factor for graft failure. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2019, 55: 428-434).

Comparison of Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty and Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty in the Treatment of Failed Penetrating Keratoplasty.

To compare the outcomes of Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) with Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) for the treatment of failed penetrating keratoplasty (PKP). This is a retrospective chart review of patients with failed PKP who underwent DMEK or DSAEK. The median follow-up time for both groups was 28 months (range 6-116 months). Data collection included demographic characteristics, number of previous corneal transplants, previous glaucoma surgeries, best-corrected visual acuity, endothelial cell density, graft detachment and rebubble rate, rejection episodes, and graft failure. Twenty-eight eyes in the DMEK group and 24 eyes in the DSAEK group were included in the analysis. Forty-three percent of eyes in the DMEK group and 50% of eyes in the DSAEK group had to be regrafted because of failure (P = 0.80). The most common reason for failure was persistent graft detachment (58%) in the DMEK group and secondary failure (58%) in the DSAEK group; hence, the time between endothelial keratoplasty and graft failure differed significantly between the groups (P = 0.02). Six eyes (21%) in the DMEK group and 7 eyes (29%) in the DSAEK group developed graft rejection (P = 0.39). Rejection was the cause of failure in 67% and 71% in the DMEK and DSAEK groups, respectively. The best-corrected visual acuity 6 months after surgery was better in the DMEK group compared with the DSAEK group (P = 0.051). Both DSAEK and DMEK have a role in treating PKP failure. Primary failure due to persistent graft detachment was significantly higher in the DMEK group, although the overall failure rate in the medium term was similar.

A Prospective Randomized Trial Comparing Hydrus and iStent Microinvasive Glaucoma Surgery Implants for Standalone Treatment of Open-Angle Glaucoma: The COMPARE Study

To compare the efficacy of different microinvasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) devices for reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) and medications in open-angle glaucoma (OAG). Prospective, multicenter, randomized clinical trial. One hundred fifty-two eyes from 152 patients aged 45 to 84 years with OAG, Shaffer angle grade III-IV, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) 20/30 or better, and IOP 23 to 39 mmHg after washout of all hypotensive medications. Eyes with secondary glaucoma other than pseudoexfoliative or pigmentary glaucoma, angle closure, previous incisional glaucoma surgery, or any significant ocular pathology other than glaucoma were excluded. Study eyes were randomized 1:1 to standalone MIGS consisting of either 1 Hydrus Microstent (Ivantis, Inc, Irvine, CA) or 2 iStent Trabecular Micro Bypass devices (Glaukos Inc, San Clemente, CA). Follow-up was performed 1 day, 1 week, and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Within-group and between-group differences in IOP and medications at 12 months and complete surgical success defined as freedom from repeat glaucoma surgery, IOP 18 mmHg or less, and no glaucoma medications. Safety measures included the frequency of surgical complications, changes in visual acuity, slit-lamp findings, and adverse events. Study groups were well matched for baseline demographics, glaucoma status, medication use, and baseline IOP. Twelve-month follow-up was completed in 148 of 152 randomized subjects (97.3%). At 12 months, the Hydrus had a greater rate of complete surgical success (P < 0.001) and reduced medication use (difference= -0.6 medications, P= 0.004). More Hydrus subjects were medication free at 12 months (difference= 22.6% P= 0.0057). Secondary glaucoma surgery was performed in 2 eyes in the 2-iStent group (3.9%) and in none of the Hydrus eyes. Two eyes in the Hydrus group and 1 in the 2-iStent group had BCVA loss of ≥2 lines. Standalone MIGS in OAG with the Hydrus resulted in a higher surgical success rate andfewermedications compared with the 2-iStent procedure. The 2 MIGS devices have similar safety profiles.

Transient ciliochoroidal detachment after 360-degree suture trabeculotomy ab interno for open-angle glaucoma: 12-month follow-up

ObjectivesTo investigate the effects of ciliochoroidal detachment (CCD) after 360-degree suture trabeculotomy ab interno (360S-LOT ab interno) on intraocular pressure (IOP) and postoperative complications during a 12-month follow-up.MethodsWe prospectively examined 44 eyes of 44 patients for 12 months after 360S-LOT ab interno surgery. Inclusion criteria were open-angle glaucoma including primary open-angle glaucoma, normal tension glaucoma, and exfoliation glaucoma without previous glaucoma surgeries. CCD was detected by swept-source anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Outcome measures were the course of IOP, the number of medications, and the postoperative complications of the CCD group compared with those of the non-CCD group.ResultsCCD appeared in 21 eyes (47.7%) within postoperative day 7 and disappeared within postoperative month 1 in 19 of 21 eyes. Although the IOP on postoperative day 1 in the CCD group (11.9 ± 7.7 mmHg) was significantly lower than that in the non-CCD group (19.2 ± 12.8 mmHg) (P = 0.020), the difference in the postoperative IOP between the groups decreased with time. No significant difference was seen in the number of medications and postoperative complications.ConclusionsCCD occurred in approximately half of patients after 360S-LOT ab interno and may have the transient effect of lowering the IOP immediately after surgery. Postoperative CCD had no effect on the later IOP, the number of medications and postoperative complications throughout 12-month of follow-up.

Microcatheter-assisted Trabeculotomy for Primary Congenital Glaucoma After Failed Glaucoma Surgeries.

To evaluate the effectiveness of microcatheter-assisted trabeculotomy (MAT) to treat primary congenital glaucoma after failed previous glaucoma surgeries. Retrospective, noncomparative, interventional case series conducted at Beijing Tongren Eye Center, China. Outcome measures were compared between 3 groups: successful and complete (≥330 degrees) MAT; successful and partial (<330 degrees) MAT; or cases converted to traditional trabeculotomy when the Schlemm's canal could not be catheterized >180 degrees. Success was defined as final intraocular pressure ≤21 mm Hg, with (qualified success) or without (complete success) glaucoma medications. In total, 74 eyes of 63 consecutive patients were included. MAT was performed in 50 eyes (67.6%). Postoperative intraocular pressure and number of glaucoma drops (17.7±8.6 mm Hg, 0.6±1.2 medications) was significantly less than the preoperative values (35.3±7.2 mm Hg, 2.7±0.8 medications; P<0.001). Cumulative probabilities of qualified and complete success were 84.0% and 80.0% at 3-year follow-up with no difference between complete and partial trabeculotomies. MAT was not successfully performed in 24 eyes (32.4%), requiring conversion to traditional trabeculotomy and associated with greater incidence of previous surgeries (P<0.001), earlier age of disease onset (P=0.024) and worse corneal transparency (P=0.010). Cumulative probabilities of qualified and complete success were 37.0% and 29.2% at 3-year follow-up. Both complete and partial MAT achieved significant pressure reduction in cases of primary congenital glaucoma with previous failed glaucoma surgeries in intermediate term.

Lack of association between provocative test-based intraocular pressure parameters and functional loss in treated glaucoma patients.

To correlate provocative test-based intraocular pressure (IOP) variation parameters (fluctuation and peak) with functional status, and to compare these IOP parameters between treated eyes with asymmetric primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). A prospective observational study including consecutively treated patients with primary open-angle glaucoma was performed. Subjects with ocular diseases other than glaucoma or previous incisional glaucoma surgery were excluded. The primary inclusion criteria were 33 visual field tests and 32 years of follow-up, without any changes on current medical regimen. Long-term intraocular pressure parameters were acquired via isolated intraocular pressure measurements from the patients' last 5 office visits. To evaluate provocative test-based intraocular pressure parameters, all patients were submitted to a water drinking test. Initially, the partial correlation coefficients between each intraocular pressure variation parameter and visual field mean deviation were calculated, adjusting for the baseline intraocular pressure and number of antiglaucoma medications. In addition, each intraocular pressure parameter was compared between eyes with better visual field mean deviation and fellow eyes with worse visual field mean deviation in patients with asymmetric visual field loss (defined as an inter-eye visual field mean deviation difference of at least 3 dB). A total of 87 eyes (87 patients; mean age, 61.9 ± 12.5 years; 59.8% women) with primary open-angle glaucoma were included. The patients underwent a median of 5 visual field tests, with a mean follow-up of 4.3 ± 1.4 years. Neither long-term nor water-drinking test intraocular pressure variation parameters were significantly associated with visual field mean deviation values (p30.117). In the subgroup with asymmetric visual field loss (64 eyes of 32 patients; mean age, 65.0 ± 11.4 years), neither long-term water-drinking test intraocular pressure variation parameters differed significantly between eyes with better and worse visual field mean deviation (p30.400). Our results indicate that neither long-term intraocular pressure variation parameters nor stress test-derived intraocular pressure metrics, as assessed by the water-drinking test, appear to correlate with the visual field status or differ significantly between eyes with asymmetric visual field damage, suggesting that other factors may explain such functional asymmetry, and that the water-drinking test does not add significant information to these cases.

Randomized comparative trial of diode laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation versus Ahmed glaucoma valve for neovascular glaucoma in Chinese - a pilot study.

PurposeThis is a pilot study to compare the effectiveness and safety of diode laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (TSCP) with the Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) in the management of neovascular glaucoma (NVG).MethodsEyes with NVG and an IOP greater than 21 mmHg on maximal medications, without previous glaucoma surgery or cyclodestruction, were randomized for either TSCP or AGV implantation. These eyes were followed for at least 6 months and analyzed with respect to their visual outcome, IOP, number of glaucoma medications required, and related complications.ResultsTwenty eyes (eight TSCP and 12 AGV) of 19 subjects with a follow-up duration of greater than 6 months were recruited. Mean follow-up duration was 28.5±17.9 and 31.0±15.4 months for the TSCP and AGV groups, respectively (P=0.80). IOP was successfully controlled in 86% of the eyes for both interventions. By including preservation or improvement of visual acuity as additional criteria for overall success, success decreased to 63% for TSCP and 42% for AGV, although the difference was not statistically significant (P=0.65). Eyes that had TSCP had fewer complications and required less subsequent procedures, compared to those that underwent AGV implantation.ConclusionBoth procedures were equally effective in controlling the IOP and reducing glaucoma medications in NVG. However, eyes with AGV implant tended to have higher rates of visual loss and complications, as well as requiring more postoperative procedures, than eyes that were treated with TSCP, although the difference was not statistically significant.

Patient Outcomes Following Micropulse Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation: Intermediate-term Results.

To report the safety and efficacy outcomes following micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MPTSCPC) procedure in patients with uncontrolled glaucoma. Longitudinal retrospective cohort, multicenter study. Patients with different types of glaucoma who underwent MPTSCPC with P3 probe between July 2015 and May 2017. Patients were treated by different glaucoma specialists from 5 different locations (Tulane Study Group). Data on preoperative characteristics, surgical procedure(s) performed, and postoperative outcomes were collected and analyzed. Statistical analysis using logistic regression and Kaplan-Meier analysis was performed with Stata software. Intraoperative and postoperative complications, intraocular pressure, visual acuity, need for incisional glaucoma surgery, need for repeat micropulse, and number of topical medications were studied. One hundred ninety-seven eyes from 161 patients were included. Median follow-up was 12 months [interquartile range (IQR), 6 to 14]. Glaucoma diagnosis included 141 primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), 8 neovascular glaucoma, and 12 others. The total success rate was 71%. Two percent (4 patients) developed postoperative cystoid macular edema. Preoperative mean intraocular pressure (SD) was 22±9 and 16±6 mm Hg at last follow-up (P<0.001). Median preoperative logMAR visual acuity (IQR) was 0.4 (0.2 to 1.0) and 0.3 (0.2 to 1.0) at last follow-up (P=0.65, Wilcoxon signed-rank test). Median number (IQR) of topical medications was 3 (1 to 4) preoperative and 2 (1 to 3) at last follow-up (P<0.001). Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated 90% of patients free from repeat MPTSCPC at 12 months. Multivariable logistic regression identified 3 significant independent predictors of total success: diagnosis (P=0.011) (POAG), previous glaucoma surgery (P=0.003), and other concurrent procedures (P=0.013). Our large longitudinal cohort study has provided evidence that MPTSCPC is a safe and generally effective option in the treatment of POAG up to 12 months.

Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty for Failed Penetrating Keratoplasty: Visual Outcomes and Graft Survival.

To evaluate outcomes and graft survival of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) for failed penetrating keratoplasty (PK). Ninety-three DMEK procedures performed in 84 eyes of 77 patients with failed PK were retrospectively reviewed. The main outcomes were corrected distance visual acuity and graft survival assessed with Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and proportional hazards modeling taking follow-up into consideration. Sixty-nine eyes had 1 previous failed PK, 13 had 2, 1 had 3, and 1 had 4. Ten eyes had failed Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK) performed under failed PK. Fourteen cases (15%) had previous glaucoma filtration surgery (9 trabeculectomy alone; 5 trabeculectomy and aqueous shunt). Median follow-up was 21 months (range, 1 month to 7 years). Median Snellen corrected distance visual acuity improved from 20/100 preoperatively (range, 20/30 to count fingers) to 20/30 at 6 months postoperatively (n = 73; range, 20/20-20/200). Rebubbling rates were 53% when the diameter of the DMEK graft was oversized, 27% when same sized, and 33% when undersized relative to that of the previous PK graft. Two grafts (2%) experienced an immunologic rejection episode, and 15 (16%) failed, including 5 primary/early failures and 10 late failures. Previous glaucoma surgery was the only significant risk factor for failure (relative risk, 7.1; 95% confidence interval, 2.1-37.0). The 1-, 2-, and 3-year graft survival rates were 96%, 89%, and 89% without versus 78%, 53%, and 39% with previous glaucoma surgery. Treatment of failed PK with DMEK produced similar 4-year survival (76%) and better visual outcomes than previously reported with Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty or an initial PK regraft.

Moderately Long-Term Safety and Efficacy of Repeat Penetrating Keratoplasty.

To investigate the moderately long-term safety and efficacy of repeat penetrating keratoplasty (PK) for treatment of a failed PK graft. Retrospective consecutive clinical case series. Of 992 consecutive cases that underwent PK at Baptist Eye Institute, Kyoto, Japan, between April 1998 and September 2013, 96 cases that underwent repeat PK with more than 3 years postoperatively follow-up were retrospectively reviewed. Surgical outcomes including donor graft survival rate, best spectacle-corrected visual acuity, endothelial cell density, and complications afeter repeat PK were assessed. At 1, 3, and 5 years after repeat PK, the donor graft survival rate was 91%, 75%, and 64%, respectively, and the mean endothelial cell density in those survived grafts was 1778, 1207, and 989 cells/mm, respectively. Best spectacle-corrected visual acuity over 20/200 and 20/40 was achieved in 71% and 27% of the patients, respectively, at 1 year postoperatively, in 59% and 31% of the patients, respectively, at 3 years postoperatively, and in 53% and 29% of the patients, respectively, at 5 years postoperatively. The most common complication for repeat PK was the need for additional glaucoma surgery [n = 11 patients (11.5%)]. Cox proportional hazard regression analyses revealed that previous glaucoma surgery and a rejection episode were high risk factors for graft failure in repeat PK [hazard ratio (HR) = 6.7; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.1-21.2 and HR = 5.6; 95% CI, 1.8-18.0, respectively]. Repeat PK provided relatively safe and effective moderately long-term surgical outcomes.

The Safety and Efficacy of Supraciliary Stenting Following Failed Glaucoma Surgery

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of supraciliary stenting following failed glaucoma surgery. Interventional case series. Setting: Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom. Twenty eyes from 20 patients with glaucoma refractory to prior glaucoma surgery. Ab interno microstent (CyPass Micro-Stent; Alcon, Fort Worth, Texas, USA) implantation into the supraciliary space. Outcome measures included the occurrence of ocular adverse events, mean intraocular pressure (IOP) change, and glaucoma medication use through 12months. Mean baseline IOP was 22.5 ± 8.0mm Hg and number of medications was 2.7 ± 1.0. The majority of patients had undergone either prior trabeculectomy or aqueous shunt surgery. There were no serious intraoperative complications or major adverse events following supraciliary stenting. The most common adverse events included transient hyphema (3/20, 15%), transientIOP> 30mm Hg (4/20, 20%), and transient IOP<6mm Hg (4/20, 20%). At 12months, mean IOP was 14.9 ± 4.3mm Hg-a 33.7% reduction (P=.01). Mean medication usage decreased 56% to 1.2 ± 1.5 at 12months (P= .01). Two patients (10%) required subsequent aqueous shunt insertion. Ab interno supraciliary stenting has a favorable safety profile and provides an effective approach to controlling IOP and reducing medication burden in eyes in which previous glaucoma surgery has failed.