Nine-year follow-up of trabeculectomy with or without low-dosage mitomycin-c in primary open-angle glaucoma

Wound modulation in glaucoma surgery: The role of anti-scarring agents

Filtration surgery is one of the most frequently performed surgeries in the management of glaucoma, and trabeculectomy is considered the gold standard surgical technique for the same. Though trabeculectomy has been reported to have an excellent initial success rate, about 30% of them fail in 3 years, and nearly 50% of them fail in 5 years. The most significant risk of failure still seems to be wound scarring, especially episcleral fibrosis, leading to bleb failure. As a result, it is essential to explore the role of anti-scarring agents, including mitomycin C, and 5-fluorouracil in wound modulation and improving the bleb survival rate. Since these agents are widely used in trabeculectomy, it is crucial to understand the various modes of application, advantages, and adverse effects of these agents. On an evidence-based approach, all these points have been highlighted in this review article. In addition, the newer agents available for wound modulation and their scope for practical application are discussed.

All Consecutive Ab Externo SIBS Microshunt Implantations With Mitomycin C: One-Year Outcomes and Risk Factors for Failure

PURPOSE

To present the effectiveness, risk factors for surgical failure, and adverse events over 12 months in a consecutive diverse cohort of glaucoma patients who underwent solo or combined ab externo SIBS microshunt with mitomycin C (MMC) with or without previous subconjunctival surgery.

DESIGN

Retrospective, consecutive, interventional case series.

METHODS

Consecutive glaucomatous eyes on maximally tolerated medical therapy received ab externo SIBS microshunt with MMC implantation as a solo or combined procedure with phacoemulsification from July 2015 to January 2020. The primary outcome was the proportion of eyes at 12-months with the following: (1) no 2 consecutive intraocular pressures (IOPs) >17 mm Hg or clinical hypotony, without (complete success) or with (qualified success) glaucoma medications; and (2) ≥20% reduction from baseline IOP. Secondary outcomes included upper IOP thresholds of 14 and 21 mm Hg with and without a 20% IOP reduction from baseline, median IOP, medications, risk factors for failure, postoperative interventions, complications, and reoperations.

RESULTS

A total of 436 eyes underwent surgery; 86 (20%) combined with phacoemulsification, 127 (29%) in eyes with refractory glaucoma, and 234 (51%) stand-alone procedures in non-refractory eyes. Complete success (6-17 mm Hg with no medications) was achieved in 64.0% of combined eyes, 58.1% of refractory eyes, and 74.8% of stand-alone non-refractory eyes; and qualified success rates (6-17 mm Hg with medications) were 90.7%, 84.7%, and 92.4% of eyes, respectively. At 12 months, 67% of eyes were medication free. Significant risk factors for failure included combined procedures in refractory eyes (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.2; 95% CI = 1.4-7.4), receiving <0.4 mg/mL of MMC (HR = 2.2; 95% CI = 1.6-3.1), refractory eyes (HR = 1.7; 95% CI = 1.2-2.5), combined procedures (HR = 1.6; 95% CI = 1.0-2.5), and each additional baseline medication class (HR = 1.3; 95% CI = 1.1-1.5). Postoperative complications occurred in 31% of eyes, and more often in those receiving ≥0.4 mg/mL MMC (odds ratio [OR] = 2.2, 95% CI 1.2-3.8). Needling occurred in 12% of eyes, with significantly higher frequency in refractory eyes (23%) and combined procedures (13%) compared to stand-alone (7%; P < .001). Revisions and reoperations occurred in 4% and 1.4% of eyes, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The 1-year follow-up data from this large and diverse cohort support promising rates of qualified and complete surgical success with decreased medication burden and few postoperative complications and interventions. Combined phacoemulsification, refractory glaucoma, and receiving <0.4mg/mL MMC were associated with reduced surgical success rates.

Mitomycin C-loaded PTMC15-F127-PTMC15 hydrogel maintained better bleb function after filtering glaucoma surgery in monkeys with intraocular hypertension

There is an unmet need for a safer and more effective approach for antimetabolite application to prevent bleb fibrosis after glaucoma filtering surgery. Here, we utilized our previously developed thermosensitive sustained-release agent, mitomycin C-loaded poly(trimethylene carbonate)15-F127-poly(trimethylene carbonate)15 (MMC-hydrogel), aiming to further evaluate the efficacy and safety of MMC-hydrogel in high intraocular pressure (IOP) primate eyes. Twelve primate eyes after high IOP induction were randomly divided into three groups, which respectively received phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)-hydrogel, MMC-hydrogel, and MMC treatment during trabeculectomy. IOP and bleb volume were measured using a Tonopen and anterior segment optical coherence tomography over 28 days. At the end of the experiment, all experimental primate eyes were enucleated. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry were performed to reveal myofibroblast cells and collagen deposition of filtering blebs. The MMC-hydrogel group had satisfactory IOP control (9.25 ± 4.80 mmHg) and maintained well-functioning blebs for a longer time. Fibrosis and scarring were significantly alleviated in this MMC-hydrogel group. There was no obvious toxicity to ocular surfaces or intraocular structures. Taken together, these data suggest that PTMC15-F127-PTMC15-loaded MMC-hydrogel plays a role in functional maintenance and scarring inhibition, showing high efficacy in reducing post-filtering surgery bleb fibrosis. This MMC-hydrogel may offer a new solution for filtering bleb management after glaucoma surgery.

Long-term success after trabeculectomy in open-angle glaucoma: results of a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the long-term outcomes of trabeculectomy (TE) surgery in a large cohort with a minimum follow-up of 3 years.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

University Eye Hospital, Germany.

PARTICIPANTS

Three hundred and seventy-nine patients with open-angle glaucoma underwent TE with mitomycin C (MMC) between January 2013 and February 2017 with a minimal follow-up of 3 years. Eligible patients were identified via an electronic surgical case register.

INTERVENTIONS

All patients had undergone TE with MMC following a set surgical protocol. To assess the influence of cataract surgery following TE, eyes which underwent cataract surgery at least 6 months after TE were matched 1:3 by sex and age to eyes who did not undergo cataract surgery during the follow-up period.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcome was the proportion of surgical success based on intraocular pressure (IOP), surgical complications, the need for revision surgery, loss of light perception and the need for additional pressure-lowering medication.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up time was 6 (±0.8, IQR: 5.4-6.5) years. Seventy-three per cent of eyes achieved qualified surgical success at the last follow-up (IOP≥5 mm Hg and ≤18 mm Hg, without surgical complications or complete loss of vision) but necessitated additional medical therapy, complete surgical success with no additional medical therapy was achieved in 69% of eyes. There was no significant difference in the success probability between eyes that had undergone cataract surgery after TE and those that had not (p=0.45).

CONCLUSIONS

The results demonstrate a high and stable success rate of TE after a mean follow-up time of approximately 6 years, that is, not affected by later cataract surgery.

Differences in the Surgical Outcomes of Glaucoma Surgery in Patients of African Caribbean Descent

PURPOSE

People of African Caribbean Descent (ACD) have a higher prevalence of glaucoma compared to people of European Descent (ED) and there is uncertainty if treatment outcomes are equivalent between the two groups. To assess surgical failure rates comparing ACD with ED focusing on trabeculectomy, aqueous shunt implantation, non-penetrating filtering surgery (NPFS), and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) by performing a systematic review in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines and to determine whether there is any evidence in to show a difference in success rates based on race.

METHODS

A systematic review of articles using the CENTRAL, Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases was completed. Additional studies were identified by contacting clinical experts and searching bibliographies. All retrospective and prospective studies on trabeculectomy, aqueous shunt implantation, NPFS, and MIGS that included at least 20% ACD were included. Two review authors independently screened search results for eligibility and inclusion and extracted the data using pre-determined fields.

RESULTS

A total of 76 studies were identified for inclusion in the review. Glaucoma surgical outcomes in ACD appear to be poorer compared to ED overall, particularly for trabeculectomy. Data on NPFS are limited, but the studies completed thus far demonstrate surprisingly good results for ACD, particularly when compared to ED, who have significantly lower pre-operative IOPs. Evidence from studies investigating aqueous shunts does not suggest that ACD have poorer outcomes than ED. There is not enough data on MIGS to provide a significant conclusion.

CONCLUSION

In a population where trabeculectomy may no longer be the gold standard, sufficiently powered studies assessing surgical outcomes in aqueous shunts, NPFS, and MIGS are needed to guide clinicians.

The Effect of CHIR 99021, a Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β Inhibitor, on Transforming Growth Factor β-Induced Tenon Fibrosis

Purpose

This study investigated the effect of glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) inhibition on the fibrosis of human Tenon's fibroblasts (HTFs) induced by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β).

Methods

Quantitative real-time PCR and Western blot analyses were performed to determine the expression levels of molecules associated with the fibrosis of HTFs by TGF-β (fibronectin, collagen Iα, and α-smooth muscle actin) and GSK-3β. The levels of phosphorylated Smad2 and Smad3 were also analyzed in the presence of the GSK-3β inhibitor CHIR 99021. The wound healing assay was performed to determine the effect of CHIR 99021 on the migration of HTFs. All experiments were conducted using primary cultured HTFs or human tenon tissues obtained from normal subjects and patients with glaucoma.

Results

Treatment with TGF-β resulted in an increase in the levels of molecules associated with the fibrosis of HTFs. The expression levels of these molecules were higher in the tenon tissues obtained from patients with glaucoma than those from normal subjects. When the HTFs were treated with TGF-β, a significant increase in the active form of GSK-3β (Y216) was observed. A significant decrease in the active form of GSK-3β and molecules associated with fibrosis by TGF-β was noted in HTFs treated with CHIR 99021. CHIR 99021 treatment reduced the phosphorylated Smad2/Smad2 and phosphorylated Smad3/Smad3 ratios in HTFs and attenuated HTF migration.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated the effect of GSK-3β inhibition on the regulation of TGF-β–mediated fibrosis of HTFs, suggesting GSK-3β to be a potential target for maintaining bleb function after glaucoma filtration surgery.

Efficacy of Mitomycin C Combined with Direct Vision Internal Urethrotomy for Urethral Strictures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

The high recurrence of a urethral stricture after direct vision internal urethrotomy (DVIU) has been a problem for years. Mitomycin C (MMC) is an excellent antifibrosis antigen that has been used in many fields, but its effect on a urethral stricture remains controversial. The purpose of this review was to investigate the effectiveness of MMC in reducing the recurrence rate of a urethral stricture after the first urethrotomy.

METHODS

Common databases were searched for publications prior to November 30, 2020. Randomized controlled and cohort trials were all included. Recurrence and success rates after the first urethrotomy of the posterior urethra were the main outcomes. Revman 5.3 was used for statistical analysis. Two evaluation systems, the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the Newcastle Ottawa Scale, were used to examine the risk of bias for RCTs and all studies. The quality of evidence was assessed by the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation standard.

RESULTS

Sixteen trials were included, the reporting quality of which was generally poor, and the evidence level was very low to moderate. The addition of MMC could significantly reduce the recurrence rate of urethral strictures (risk ratio [RR] = 0.42; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.26, 0.67; p = 0.0002; 9 trials; 550 participants). The results of the subgroup analysis suggested that the effect of MMC combined with DVIU was significant in short (≤2 cm) anterior urethral strictures (RR = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.20, 0.78; p = 0.008), >12-month follow-up (RR = 0.45; 95% CI: 0.26, 0.76; p = 0.003). It also increased the success rate of the first urethrotomy procedure for posterior urethral contracture (RR = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.65, 0.84; p < 0.00001; 7 trials; 342 participants). Low-dose local injection of MMC was the most commonly used method.

CONCLUSION

MMC combined with DVIU is a promising way to reduce the long-term recurrence rate of a short-segment anterior urethral stricture. It also increases the success rate of the first urethrotomy of the posterior urethra. However, more high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed.

Clinical Efficacy and Safety Outcomes of Micropulse Transscleral Diode Cyclophotocoagulation in Patients With Advanced Glaucoma

PRECIS

Micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MPTCP) is only moderately effective in lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) and is useful as an adjunct procedure to other glaucoma surgeries. There was a small risk of loss of vision, prolonged hypotony, and phthisis bulbi.

AIM

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of a single MPTCP treatment for an Asian population with advanced glaucoma.

METHODS

This is a retrospective single-center study of 207 eyes (207 patients) with advanced glaucoma which underwent first-time MPTCP between January 1, 2008, and March 31, 2018. Success was defined as IOP of 6 to 21 mm Hg or ≥20% reduction in IOP without an increase in glaucoma medication from baseline, and without glaucoma reoperation. The IOP, best-corrected visual acuity, and number of glaucoma medications were also analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) age was 64.9±16.9 years. The mean follow-up duration was 18.7±16.2 months. The rate of success at postoperative years 1 and 2 follow-up was 44.1% and 32.6%, respectively. The median survival time of MPTCP was 9.0 months and 85 (40.9%) eyes received reoperation. The mean IOP decreased from 31.5±12.0 mm Hg preoperatively to 22.1±10.3 and 23.8±11.8 mm Hg at postoperative years 1 and 2, respectively (P<0.0001). The mean number of glaucoma medications was reduced from 3.3±1.0 preoperatively to 2.6±1.1 and 2.4±1.1 at postoperative years 1 and 2, respectively (P<0.0001). Significant complications included prolonged hypotony [1 eye (0.5%)], phthisis bulbi [7 eyes (3.4%)], and best-corrected visual acuity reduction [29 eyes (13.9%)].

CONCLUSION

Single first-time MPTCP for advanced glaucoma eyes was moderately effective in lowering IOP but >50% failed by 1 year.

Influence of Mitomycin C on the Therapeutic Success of Stand-Alone Xen45 Gel Stents and Its Combination with Cataract Surgery in Open-Angle Glaucoma Patients

PURPOSE

Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), like Xen45 gel stents, is known as effective therapy in lowering intraocular pressure (IOP); however, fibrotic reactions are a common problem in postoperative management. It was the aim of this study to investigate the therapeutic success of Xen45 gel stents as a stand-alone technique (Xen) and combined with cataract surgery (XenPhaco), and with antimetabolites (mitomycin C, MMC) in open-angle glaucoma patients.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis was performed of 199 eyes of 177 glaucoma patients of the Department of Ophthalmology, University of Erlangen Nürnberg, and from the Erlangen Glaucoma Registry (NCT00494923; ISSN 2191-5008, CS-2011) who underwent implantation of a Xen45 gel stent. Therapeutic success was defined as IOP reduction of ≥ 20% on the same or less anti-glaucomatous medication after 12 months compared to preoperative and without any additional glaucoma-related surgery (except bleb needling). IOP reduction, reduction in local anti-glaucomatous eye drops, and intra- and postoperative complications were monitored.

RESULTS

Stand-alone Xen45 gel stent: therapeutic success was reached in 39% (-MMC) and 55% (+MMC). Failure rate was 61% (-MMC) and 45% (+MMC). XenPhaco: therapeutic success was achieved in 57% (-MMC) and 46% (+MMC). Failure rate was 43% (-MMC) and 54% (+MMC). Data were not different for group and subgroup analyses (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of MMC seemed to increase the therapeutic success rate after stand-alone Xen45 gel stent implantation and combined with cataract surgery, yet statistical significant was not reached.

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

PURPOSE

To compare the safety and efficacy of sub-Tenon injection of mitomycin C (MMC) with application of MMC-infused sponges during trabeculectomy.

DESIGN

Single-center randomized clinical trial.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 56 eyes of 49 patients with open-angle glaucoma were included in this clinical trial.

METHODS

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.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Intraocular pressure reduction was the primary outcome. Bleb morphologic features and endothelial cell counts (ECCs) were secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

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.

CONCLUSIONS

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.

Outcome of Trabeculectomy with Collagen Matrix Implant versus Mitomycin C in Primary Glaucoma: A Comparative Study

Background:

Glaucoma is a serious vision-threatening condition appropriately called as the silent killer of sight. The effect of postoperative fibrosis on success of filtration surgeries requires modulation of the wound healing process.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to compare trabeculectomy augmented with collagen matrix implant with mitomycin C in primary glaucoma.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective, longitudinal, hospital-based, analytical, and interventional study was conducted on 36 eyes of 36 patients. Group 1 included 18 patients who underwent trabeculectomy combined with subconjunctival collagen matrix implant and Group 2 included 18 patients who underwent trabeculectomy augmented with intraoperative mitomycin C (0.04 mg/ml) for 2 min. Each patient underwent detailed ocular examination and comparison was drawn by recording intraocular pressure (IOP), bleb characteristics, and postoperative complications.

Results:

The cumulative success rates at the end of our study were similar in two groups, 94.44% in Group 1 and 88.89% in Group 2 (P = 1.000). The mean reduction in IOP at 24 weeks in Group 1 was 18.67 ± 7.59 mmHg and in Group 2 was 21.32 ± 5.84 mmHg. The reduction in IOP was similar between the two groups (P = 0.290). The mean fall in IOP was 56.46% in Group 1 and 64.70% in Group 2 at 24 weeks. Mean bleb score in Group 1 was 10.33 ± 1.23 and in Group 2 was 8.89 ± 1.41, and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.002). Shallow anterior chamber, overfiltration, and hypotony were statistically higher in Group 2 than in Group 1 (P = 0.041, 0.041, and 0.046, respectively).

Conclusion:

Collagen matrix implant as an adjuvant to trabeculectomy is noble, safe, and effective option as compared to mitomycin C.

Efficacy and Safety of Repeated Micropulse Transscleral Diode Cyclophotocoagulation in Advanced Glaucoma

PRECIS

Repeat micropulse transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (MPTCP) has some benefit in lowering intraocular pressure (IOP). There was a small risk of loss of vision, prolonged hypotony, and phthisis bulbi.

AIM

This study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of repeated MPTCP for an Asian population with refractory glaucoma.

METHODS

This is a retrospective case series of 43 eyes (43 patients) with severe glaucoma which underwent repeated MPTCP. Baseline parameters were taken from the visit just before the second MPTCP session. Success was defined as IOP of 6 to 21 mm Hg or ≥20% reduction in IOP without an increase in glaucoma medication from baseline, without further glaucoma reoperation, and ≤3 total MPTCP episodes. The IOP, number of IOP-lowering medications, and best-corrected visual acuity were documented preoperatively and postoperatively. Postoperative complications were also analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean age±SD was 57.4±18.2 years with a mean follow-up duration of 28.9±27.5 months. Neovascular glaucoma was the most common type of glaucoma [18 eyes (41.9%)]. The success rates at postoperative years 1, 2, and 3, and the latest follow-up were 36.4%, 42.9%, 32.0%, and 39.5%, respectively. The median survival time of repeat MPTCP was 4.6 months. Compared with the preoperative mean IOP (35.2±11.0 mm Hg), the mean IOP at postoperative years 1, 2, and 3, and latest follow-up, was 27.8±13.7 mm Hg (P=0.004), 27.4±12.4 (P=0.003), 31.8±13.2 (P=0.35), and 27.1±13.8 mm Hg (P=0.002), respectively. The mean number of IOP-lowering medications was reduced from 3.3±0.9 preoperatively to 2.8±1.3 at the final follow-up (P=0.007). Postoperative complications included prolonged hypotony [3 eyes (7.0%)] and phthisis bulbi [2 eyes (4.7%)].

CONCLUSION

Repeated MPTCP is at best moderately effective in lowering IOP for eyes with advanced glaucoma.

Outcomes and risk factors for failure after trabeculectomy in Taiwanese patients: medical chart reviews from 2006 to 2017

AIMS

To determine long-term outcomes and risk factors for failure after mitomycin C (MMC)-augmented initial trabeculectomy (IT) in Taiwanese patients.

METHODS

We reviewed medical records of patients with glaucoma undergoing IT during December 2006-December 2016. We defined complete success as an intraocular pressure (IOP) of >5 or ≤21 mm Hg or IOP reduction of ≥20% from baseline without supplemental medications and qualified success as the aforementioned IOP levels with or without supplemental medications. Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox proportional analyses evaluated success rates and risk factors for failure, respectively.

RESULTS

We enrolled 190 patients (237 eyes; mean age: 54.0±15.3 years; mean postoperative follow-up period: 68.4±35.1 months). Mean IOP and glaucoma medications decreased from 22.2±10.8 to 14.4±5.2 mm Hg (p<0.001) and 3.0±0.7 to 1.8±1.2 (p=0.015), respectively, at the last visit. Cumulative qualified success rates were 93.9%, 93.0%, 86.5% and 67.1% at the 1, 2, 5 and 10 years follow-up, respectively; however, only 7.7% of the eyes reached complete success at the last visit. Eyes with poor preoperative visual acuity were associated with low qualified success rates (HR=1.689, p=0.027); patients aged >70 years had higher complete success rates than did those aged ≤70 years. Five cases (2.11%) exhibited bleb-associated complications.

CONCLUSION

Despite satisfactory long-term success rates, most eyes needed medication for IOP control, supporting the notion of predisposed scarring vitality in patients of Chinese ethnicity following MMC-augmented trabeculectomy.

Does adjuvant intracameral triamcinolone acetonide increase the effectiveness of phacotrabeculectomy? A Case-Control Study

AIMS

To investigate the effect of intracameral triamcinolone acetonide (TA) on surgical success in 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) supported primary phacotrabeculectomy (PT) cases.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This retrospective study included 23 eyes (study group) of 23 patients who underwent TA during PT and 26 eyes (control group) of 26 patients without TA. PT patients in the study group received 1 mg TA intraoperatively at the end of surgery. Pre- and postoperative visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), and number of antiglaucoma drugs used were compared. Postoperative complications and need for 5-FU injection were evaluated for both groups.

RESULTS

Mean age was 64.1 2 ± 1.91 (48-86) years in the control group and 66.52 ± 2.02 (52-86) years in the study group (p = 0.824). Comparison of pre- and postoperative IOP values showed significant decreases in postoperative IOP levels at all-time points in both the control and study groups (p &lt; 0.001). The only significant difference between groups was on postoperative first day (study group: 9.22 ± 1.41 mmHg; control group: 6.35 ± 2.17 mmHg, p &lt; 0.001). Need for postoperative 5-FU injection was significantly more common in the control group (p = 0.023).

CONCLUSION

Intracameral injection of 1 mg TA at the end of PT surgery did not yield superior results in postoperative IOP compared to PT alone, and the two groups showed similar IOP reduction. When given as an adjunct to PT, 1 mg TA suppresses anterior segment inflammation and reduces the need for 5-FU injection.

The Effect of Radiation Therapy on the Efficacy of Internal Urethrotomy With Intralesional Mitomycin C for Recurrent Vesicourethral Anastomotic Stenoses and Bladder Neck Contractures: A Multi-Institutional Experience

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy, effect of radiotherapy, and complications of direct visual internal urethrotomy (DVIU) and intralesional mitomycin C (MMC) for recurrent bladder neck contracture/vesicourethral anastomotic stenosis (BNC/VUAS).

METHODS

Patients who underwent DVIU with intralesional MMC for recurrent BNC/VUAS between 2007 and 2019 at 2 institutions were included. Cold knife incisions were performed in a reproducible fashion followed by injection of 0.3-0.4 mg/mL MMC at each incision site. Those with evidence of complete urethral obliteration, stenosis of the entire posterior urethra, or <3 months follow-up were excluded. Success was defined as the ability to pass a 17-French cystoscope postoperatively without the need for catheterization or additional procedures.

RESULTS

Eighty-six patients were analyzed over a median follow-up of 21.1 months. Around 91% had at least 1 prior DVIU, 56% had at least 1 prior dilation, and 44% presented with an indwelling catheter or performed intermittent catheterization. Success was achieved in 65% after 1 procedure, an additional 18% after 2 procedures, and another 7% after 3 or more procedures (90% overall success rate). Nonradiated patients showed a higher overall success rate compared to radiated patients (94% vs 76%, P = 0.04). Of the 9 cystoscopic failures, 5 were asymptomatic and pursued observation. Only 2 (5%) patients with a history of catheterization required this postoperatively. Two patients underwent subsequent urinary diversion surgery. No long-term complications were seen.

CONCLUSION

DVIU with low-dose MMC remains a safe and effective BNC/VUAS treatment. A patent bladder neck was achieved in >90% of nonradiated patients and >75% of radiated patients.

Minimally Invasive Surgery in Mild-to-Moderate Glaucoma Patients in Italy: Is It Time to Change?

Medical therapy is the first treatment choice for most patients with glaucoma; however, in a relevant proportion of patients, intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction is achieved with multi-therapy and/or high therapeutic doses. Conventional surgery is the standard alternative to medical therapy when this is not effective or not tolerated. Recently, selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) has been advocated as first-line therapy, and "minimally invasive glaucoma surgery" (MIGS) has been developed as safer and less traumatic surgical intervention for patients with glaucoma. Schlemm's canal surgery has emerged as one of the approaches with the most favorable risk-benefit profile for glaucoma patients in need of cataract surgery. However, despite the promising results, use of MIGS in Italy has been extremely low. We aimed to investigate the reasons of the lower-than-expected use of Schlemm's canal-based MIGS devices in Italy, share our perspective on their potential place in therapy, and give practical suggestions to improve the management of glaucoma patients.

Learning from the past: Mitomycin C use in trabeculectomy and its application in bleb-forming minimally invasive glaucoma surgery

Trabeculectomy has been performed since the mid-1960s and remains the gold standard for glaucoma surgery. Newer surgical options have evolved, collectively referred to as minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries. Despite producing large intraocular pressure decreases, full-thickness procedures into the subconjunctival space may be limited by fibrosis. Mitomycin C (MMC) and 5-fluorouracil have been in use with trabeculectomy with good evidence of significantly increased success at the cost, however, of an increased risk of complications. Off-label MMC application can be found in almost all clinical trials, including in combination with minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries. We explore current evidence for MMC use in trabeculectomy and how this may differ for minimally invasive glaucoma surgery devices and analyze the range of agents and doses that are used. Although we found that most studies could not show any correlation between MMC dosage and the surgical outcome, the success rates with the Xen® microshunt seemed to be higher when using 20 mcg of MMC than when using 10 mcg. Certain important methodological considerations make this hard to confirm definitively, and other factors such as placement of the device may play a more substantial role. For the PreserFlo® microshunt, preliminary data suggest higher success rates with higher MMC dosage at the cost of higher device-related adverse events and reoperations. Although the ideal dose still needs to be established, it seems very likely that MMC provides significant improvement in outcomes in bleb-forming minimally invasive glaucoma procedures.

Trabeculectomy offers better intraocular pressure reduction in intrapatient comparison to transscleral cyclophotocoagulation

PURPOSE

Both trabeculotomy (TE) as well as transscleral endodiode laser cyclophotocoagulation (CPC) are common approaches in glaucoma surgery. The purpose of this study was to perform an intraindividual comparison of these procedures carried out by the same surgeon in the same patient on the same day.

METHODS

An observational monocentric retrospective cohort study was conducted. Patients with a bilateral refractory open-angle glaucoma who underwent trabeculectomy in one eye and transscleral endodiode laser cyclophotocoagulation in the fellow eye simultaneously were included and followed up with over the course of 1 year.

RESULTS

Eighty-two eyes of 41 patients were included. Seventeen patients (41.5%) were men and 24 (58.5%) women. The mean age was 68.7 ± 9.5 years. The diagnosis comprised 33 (80.5%) patients with a primary open-angle glaucoma, five (12.2%) patients with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, and three (7.3%) patients with pigment dispersion glaucoma. A reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) was seen in both after TE (from 26.2 ± 13.2 to 10.6 ± 4.1 mmHg, 52 weeks post-treatment) as well as CPC (from 24.2 ± 9.9 to 15.0 ± 5.4 mmHg, 52 weeks post-treatment). In comparison to each other, TE was significantly more effective in lowering the IOP (10.6 ± 4.1 vs. 13.4 ± 5.0; p = 0.0030, 52 weeks post-treatment) and needed antiglaucomatous medications (0.45 ± 0.80 vs. 1.24 ± 1.13; p = 0.0009, 52 weeks post-treatment). Consistently, the achievement rate of an IOP ≤ 16 mmHg without antiglaucomatous medications was significantly higher in TE-treated eyes (65.8% vs. 31.6%; p = 0.0019). Re-interventions, including 10 secondary TEs, were commonly required in those eyes undergoing CPC, especially in younger patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Trabeculectomy was demonstrated to be more effective in reducing IOP in comparison to fellow eyes receiving CPC. In particular, in younger patients, an additional TE in the CPC-treated eyes was necessary. The outcome of those secondary TEs however was comparable to the primarily performed TEs. Our study thus supports the use of CPC as tool to control IOP, especially in the context of bilateral refractive glaucoma.

Bilateral consecutive Xen gel stent surgery during pregnancy for uncontrolled early-onset primary open angle glaucoma

Purpose

To report here a case of uncontrolled glaucoma during third-trimester of pregnancy that was treated successfully with bilateral Xen gel stent insertion.

Observations

A 35-year-old woman presented during the third trimester of pregnancy with bilateral uncontrolled primary open angle glaucoma. Her disc examination and visual fields were consistent with advanced glaucoma. After failed Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty and maximal medical treatment, including Acetazolamide, she was treated with bilateral consecutive Xen stent surgery with successful control of her intraocular pressure.

Conclusions and Importance

The use of Xen implant may have advantages over traditional trabeculectomy, especially during pregnancy, as the procedure is shorter, with less dependence on on-table antimetabolite and being minimally invasive with sparing of the conjunctiva.

Ologen implant versus mitomycin-C for trabeculectomy: A meta-analysis

AIM

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of trabeculectomy (Trab) with mitomycin-C (MMC) versus Trab with implant.

METHODS

Studies published in different languages were retrieved by systematically searching Embase, PubMed, Cochrane library, China Biology Medicine disc, and Google Scholar from 1966 to April 2018, as well as manually examining the references of the original articles. The outcome measures of efficacy covered intraocular pressure, glaucoma medications reductions, and success rate. Safety evaluation was measured by relative ratio of complications.

RESULTS

A total of 11 studies involving 443 participants were covered in this meta-analysis. The weighted mean difference (WMD) in the percentage of intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction (IOPR%) comparing Ologen group with MMC group was -3.69 (95% CI: -6.70 to -0.68) at 1 month, -2.69 (-5.17 to -0.21) at 3 months, -3.67 (-6.09 to -1.25)at 6 months, -3.24 (-6.08 to -0.41) at 12 months, 1.24 (-9.43 to 11.90) at 24 months, and 1.10 (-10.11 to 12.31) at 60 months, which showed that there was statistically significant difference at 1,3, 6, and12 months after the surgery. A significantly higher incidence of postsurgery hypotony (0.64 (95% Cl: 0.42 to 0.98)) and suture lysis (0.30 (95% CI: 0.10-0.93)) was observed in MMC group. However, there was no significant difference in the reduction in glaucoma medications, success rate, and incidence of other complications.Trab with 0.2 mg/mL MMC presented higher rates of complete success compared with Trab with 0.4 mg/mL MMC (P = .01).

CONCLUSION

Trab with MMC was associated with a higher IOP-lowering efficacy and a higher incidence of postsurgery hypotony and suture lysis in contrast to that of Trab with Ologen.

[Glaucoma surgery: from traditional filtration techniques to modern principles of bioengineering]

The article reviews the history of glaucoma surgery and analyses the connection between the accumulation of knowledge on glaucoma progression and the emergence of effective surgical treatment methods based on glaucoma pathogenesis. It also describes modern principles of preventing filtering bleb scarring. Particular attention is devoted to biodegradable collagen matrix implants.

Trabeculectomy with subconjunctival collagen implant in Indian eyes: Long-term results

Purpose

To report long-term safety and efficacy of trabeculectomy with collagen implant in Indian population.

Methods

All cases of trabeculectomy with Ologen^® Collagen Matrix implant performed over a 7-year period from May 2008 through April 2015 at a tertiary referral institute were reviewed. A total of 30 eyes of 28 patients were included in the study with two patients undergoing bilateral trabeculectomy. Outcomes measured included intraocular pressure (IOP) control, number of antiglaucoma medications used, bleb morphology, and complications/reoperations.

Results

Trabeculectomy resulted in reduction in IOP from 36.46 to 11.65 mm Hg in the immediate postoperative period (day 1), a 68% decrease to 15.18 mm Hg at 84 months (58% decrease). The mean IOP reduction decreased over time from 63% in the first year to 55% after 5 years of follow-up. Fourteen eyes attained a follow-up of 5 years and eight eyes a follow-up of ≥7 years. No sight-threatening complication such as hypotony, bleb leak, and bleb-related endophthalmitis was observed in our series, and only intervention required was 5-fluorouracil needling in one case.

Conclusion

Ologen-augmented trabeculectomy is effective in controlling IOP over a long-term follow up from minimal 3 to maximal 7 years. No untoward events jeopardizing bleb safety were noted at any time. This modality is a viable alternative for patients with contraindications to use of antimetabolites.

No effects of mitomycin-C in primary trabeculectomies in Sweden

AIM

To evaluate the results of a long-term follow-up after two different types of surgical techniques: trabeculectomy with or without mitomycin-C.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study is a retrospective chart review of patients operated on with a primary trabeculectomy at the Eye Department of the Skaraborg Hospital, Skövde, Sweden. Complete success was defined as intraocular pressure ⩽18 mmHg (criterion 1) or intraocular pressure reduction ⩾30% (criterion 2) without eye drops postoperatively. Qualified success was defined using the same criteria (1 and 2), but patients were treated or untreated with eye-drops.

RESULTS

A total of 167 patients were included in this retrospective study, 83 patients in the no-mitomycin-C group and 84 patients in the mitomycin-C-treated group. No significant difference was found in intraocular pressure reduction between the mitomycin-C and no-mitomycin-C group (t-test; p = 0.19). Complete success using criterion 1 was 66.2% in no-mitomycin-C and 62.8% in mitomycin-C (p = 0.88); success using criterion 2 was 76.6% in the no-mitomycin-C and 64.2% in the mitomycin-C group (p = 0.21). Qualified success using criterion 1 was 71.4% in the no-mitomycin-C and 74.4% in the mitomycin-C group (p = 0.84); success using criterion 2 was 80.0% in the no-mitomycin-C and 84.4% in the mitomycin-C group. All included patients were born in Sweden.

CONCLUSION

Mitomycin-C seems to add no benefits to intraocular pressure reduction after primary trabeculectomies in a Swedish population.

Exploring literature-based definitions of hypotony following glaucoma filtration surgery and the impact on clinical outcomes

PURPOSE

To highlight the variations in published definitions of hypotony and their impact on reported clinical outcomes. To propose a revised definition, focusing on clinically significant hypotony (CH).

METHODS

Literature review of hypotony definitions published between January 2010 and December 2015 was carried out. Numerical definitions for hypotony, its onset, duration and associated clinical signs were recorded. Each definition was applied to surgical outcomes data collected prospectively from a cohort of 300 glaucoma patients treated at a single centre. The sensitivity and specificity of each definition in identifying CH [defined as low intraocular pressure (IOP) with signs of maculopathy hypotony and choroidal detachment] were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 128 eligible papers were identified, and 14 different definitions for hypotony were extracted. In 53 (41.4%), hypotony was not defined. In the remaining 75 (58.6%), the numerical definitions varied between 4 and 8 mmHg, and of these, 24 (32%) included the onset and duration of hypotony as part of the definition. Definition-dependent hypotony rates within the cohort varied between 1% and 59.3%. No statistical differences were found between the groups based on corneal thickness or axial length. Clinically significant hypotony (CH) was identified in 37 (12.3%), with large differences in the sensitivity and specificity among published definition.

CONCLUSION

Variations in defining postoperative hypotony can have a large impact on the reported success and failure rates among studies. There is a need for a more robust universal definition, focusing on clinically important signs, to allow better comparison between different treatment modalities.

Effect of trabeculectomy on ocular higher-order aberrations in patients with open angle glaucoma

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of trabeculectomy on ocular higher-order aberrations following surgery in a group of patients with open angle glaucoma.

METHODS:

In this prospective study, patients with primary open angle glaucoma underwent wavefront aberrometry before trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C. Coma-like, spherical-like, and total ocular higher-order aberrations were measured as root mean square values. The measurements were repeated 1 month and 3 months after the procedure.

RESULTS:

A total of 20 eyes from 20 patients were examined. There was a significant decrease in intraocular pressure following surgery at 1 month and 3 months postoperatively. However, there was no statistically significant change in the spherical equivalent of the eyes. One month after surgery, a significant change in coma-like, spherical-like, and total higher-order aberrations of the eyes was observed. However, the repeated measurements performed 3 months after procedure revealed no significant difference compared to the baseline values.

CONCLUSION:

Ocular higher-order aberrations increased 1 month following trabeculectomy surgery. However, this effect seems to be transient, as the values returned to the preoperative measurement 3 months after the procedure.

Conjunctival fibrosis following filtering glaucoma surgery

Despite advances in surgical technique and postoperative care, fibrosis remains the major impediment to a marked reduction of intraocular pressure without the need of additional medication (complete success) following filtering glaucoma surgery. Several aspects specific to filtering surgery may contribute to enhanced fibrosis. Changes in conjunctival tissue structure and composition due to preceding treatments as well as alterations in interstitial fluid flow and content due to aqueous humor efflux may act as important drivers of fibrosis. In light of these pathophysiological considerations, current and possible future strategies to control fibrosis following filtering glaucoma surgery are discussed.

Mitomycin-C Application Before versus After Scleral Flap Dissection in Trabeculectomy; a Randomized Clinical Trial

Purpose:

To compare trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C (MMC) application before versus after scleral flap dissection in terms of corneal endothelial cell loss and surgical outcomes.

Methods:

In this double blind clinical trial, patients were randomized to MMC 0.02% application before (group A) or after (group B) scleral flap dissection. The main outcome measure was corneal endothelial cell density; secondary outcome measures included IOP, glaucoma medications, success rates (IOP ≤21 and ≤18 mmHg, defined as criterion 1 and 2, respectively) and complications.

Results:

Overall, 99 eyes of 99 subjects including 72 male and 27 female subjects were operated and followed for at least 6 months. The study groups were comparable in terms of baseline variables. Outcomes of surgery were similar at six months in terms of IOP (11.8±5.8 vs. 11.7±5.5 mmHg, P=0.88) and number of medications (0.2 ±0.6 vs 0.1±0.4, P=0.45). Overall success was comparable at months 1 and 3, but higher in group B at month 6 (82.0% vs. 63.3%, P=0.036 for criterion 1 and 78.9% vs. 59.2%, P=0.044 for criterion 2). Hypotony was more prevalent in group B (8.0% versus 2.0%) but the difference was not significant (P=0.38). Endothelial cell density loss (2.2±7.3 vs 0.9±6.3%, P=0.567) was comparable between the study groups.

Conclusion:

Corneal endothelial loss following trabeculectomy was comparable with MMC application before and after scleral flap dissection. The sequences were comparable in terms of postoperative IOP and glaucoma medications. Overall success rate was higher at six months in group B and the rate of hypotony was also higher, although insignificantly.

New frontiers in urethral reconstruction: injectables and alternative grafts

Contemporary management of anterior urethral strictures requires both endoscopic as well as complex substitution urethroplasty, depending on the nature of the urethral stricture. Recent clinical and experimental studies have explored the possibility of augmenting traditional endoscopic urethral stricture management with anti-fibrotic injectable medications. Additionally, although buccal mucosa remains the gold standard graft for substitution urethroplasty, alternative grafts are necessary for reconstructing particularly complex urethral strictures in which there is insufficient buccal mucosa or in cases where it may be contraindicated. This review summarizes the data of the most promising injectable adjuncts to endoscopic stricture management and explores the alternative grafts available for reconstructing the most challenging urethral strictures. Further research is needed to define which injectable medications and alternative grafts may be best suited for urethral reconstruction in the future.

Influence of Endothelin-1 in Aqueous Humor on Intermediate-Term Trabeculectomy Outcomes

Purpose. To investigate whether increased concentrations of ET-1 in aqueous humor of glaucoma patients influences surgical outcome of standard trabeculectomy with Mitomycin C. Methods. Retrospective chart review of 36 glaucoma patients with known ET-1 concentrations who had undergone trabeculectomy with Mitomycin C. Patients were divided into two groups based on their aqueous ET-1 concentration, a below-median (low ET-1) and an above-median (high ET-1) group. Postoperative IOP development, necessity of glaucoma medication, surgical success and complications, postoperative use of antifibrotics (5-FU), and number of additional glaucoma surgeries were compared between the groups. Results. Overall surgical success of trabeculectomy was comparable to published literature (90%, 81%, 76%, and 68% absolute success at 12, 24, 36, and 48 months after surgery). There was no difference between high and low ET-1 group in the postsurgical development of IOP, surgical success rate, or complication rate. There was no difference in postoperative scarring or indirect indicators thereof (e.g., number of 5-FU injections, needlings, suture lyses, or IOP lowering medications). Conclusion. In this set of patients, ET-1 in aqueous humor does not appear to have influenced surgical outcome of trabeculectomy with Mitomycin C. There is no indication of an increased likelihood of bleb fibrosis in patients with increased ET-1 concentrations.

Trabeculectomy-related complications in Olmsted County, Minnesota, 1985 through 2010

IMPORTANCE

Trabeculectomy is the surgical standard of care for patients with medically refractory glaucoma. The use of antimetabolite agents, such as mitomycin, has increased the rate of complications after trabeculectomy.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the rate of trabeculectomy-related complications during a 25-year study.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

For this retrospective, population-based study, we enrolled the residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota, who underwent a trabeculectomy from January 1, 1985, through December 31, 2010, at the Mayo Clinic and Olmsted Community Hospital. Data were collected from August 2012 to September 2013 followed by data analysis through January 2014.

EXPOSURES

After reviewing the patient records, we determined the occurrence of complications, including bleb leak, hypotony, hyphema, choroidal effusion, choroidal hemorrhage, blebitis, and endophthalmitis, as they relate to the mitomycin concentration administered during the operation. We reviewed relevant publications in Ovid, MEDLINE, and PubMed to identify studies representative of the reported trabeculectomy complication rate.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Cumulative probabilities of short- and long-term complications, determined using the Kaplan-Meier method, and the relation to mitomycin concentration applied during trabeculectomy.

RESULTS

In 334 patients, 460 eyes underwent trabeculectomy (mean [SD; range] follow-up, 7.7 [5.7; 0-27.7] years). Among them, 159 eyes had complications, with early complications (<3 months) in 100 eyes and late complications (≥3 months) in 59 eyes during the follow-up. Ten eyes had an early and a late complication. The 20-year cumulative chances of early, late, or any complication were 19.7% (95% CI, 16.2%-23.6%), 26.0% (95% CI, 15.0%-36.0%), and 45.0% (95% CI, 38.0%-52.0%), respectively. The cumulative probabilities of vision-threatening complications during 20 years were 2.0% (95% CI, 0%-4.0%) for blebitis and 5.0% (95% CI, 1.0%-9.0%) for endophthalmitis. Association between the rate of trabeculectomy complications and mitomycin dose used was P = .77. In total, 98 cases (21.3%) underwent further surgical procedures related directly to the complication.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

The rate of trabeculectomy-related complications does not appear to be associated with mitomycin use during a mean follow-up of 7.7 years. The rate of vision-threatening complications appears to be comparable to those of previous studies of shorter duration.

Using a collagen matrix implant (Ologen) versus mitomycin-C as a wound healing modulator in trabeculectomy with the Ex-PRESS mini glaucoma device: a 12-month retrospective review

PURPOSE

To compare outcomes between patients undergoing trabeculectomy with an Ex-PRESS mini glaucoma device using mitomycin-C (MMC) to those undergoing the same procedure using a subconjunctival collagen matrix implant (Ologen).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients underwent a trabeculectomy using an Ex-PRESS shunt. A total of 49 eyes of 37 patients received Ologen, and 50 eyes of 48 patients received MMC. Postoperative data were reviewed over 12 months. Outcomes included mean intraocular pressure (IOP), rate of success in achieving a target IOP (with and without antiglaucoma medications), number of medications used, and rates of complications/reoperations.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative IOP was 24.98 mm Hg for the MMC group, and 23.24 mm Hg for the Ologen group (P=0.3). At 12 months postoperatively, the mean IOP was 12.1 mm Hg for the MMC group, and 13.12 mm Hg for the Ologen group (P=0.34). At 12 months, the rate of achieving an IOP≤21 mm Hg off medications (unqualified success) was 84% for the MMC group, and 86% for the Ologen group. There was no statistically significant difference between either group for the rates of achieving a specified postoperative IOP either with (qualified success) or without medications. There was no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups in the mean number of postoperative medications required. Both groups had similar rates of complications, and 1 patient in the MMC group lost light perception after a suprachoroidal hemorrhage.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that ologen provides similar rates of surgical success as MMC for patients undergoing a filtering procedure using an Ex-PRESS mini glaucoma device.

Wound Healing Modulation in Glaucoma Filtration Surgery-Conventional Practices and New Perspectives: The Role of Antifibrotic Agents (Part I)

Glaucoma filtration surgery is regularly performed for the treatment of glaucoma and trabeculectomy is often regarded as the ‘gold standard' glaucoma operation. The biggest risk of failure of the operation is bleb scarring. The advent of anti-fibrotic agents, such as mitomycin C (MMC) and 5-fluorouracil (5FU) has vastly prolonged the longevity of the bleb, but concerns remain regarding the potential increase in postoperative complications. More selective therapeutic targets have therefore been explored. One of these is vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibition. Vascular endothelial growth factor inhi bition has a role not only in sub conjunctival angiogenesis inhi bition but also it has direct anti-fibrotic properties. Newer phar macological compounds and materials have also been developed in recent years in attempt to modulate the wound healing in different ways after glaucoma surgery. These include physical barriers to scarring and vehicles for sustained release of pharmacological agents, and early promising results have been demonstrated. This two-part review will provide a discussion of the application of anti-fibrotic agents in glaucoma filtration surgery and evaluate the newer agents that have been developed.

How to cite this article: Fan Gaskin JC, Nguyen DQ, Ang GS, O'Connor J, Crowston JG. Wound Healing Modulation in Glaucoma Filtration Surgery–Conventional Practices and New Pers pectives: The Role of Antifibrotic Agents (Part I). J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2014;8(2):37-45.

[Long-term results after trabeculectomy with 5-fluorouracil]

PURPOSE

Trabeculectomy is among the first choice surgical treatments for glaucoma. Antimetabolites, especially mitomycin C, have improved the success rate. The aim of this study is to present the results of trabeculectomy with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU).

METHODS

A total of 71 consecutive trabeculectomies with 5-FU for decompensated glaucoma with at least 1 year follow-up data were retrospectively evaluated. The absolute (without therapy) and relative (with therapy) success rates for glaucoma medication were determined for intraocular pressure (IOP) levels of ≤ 21 mmHg, ≤ 18 mmHg, ≤ 15 mmHg and ≤ 12 mmHg respectively. Postoperative 5-FU administration rates, needling procedures and complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Sufficient follow-up data were available for a total of 55 patients. The average IOP was preoperatively 29.6 ± 7.3 mmHg (3 ± 1.4 active ingredients, partly acetazolamide), after 6 months 13.2 ± 4.1 mmHg and after 1 year 13.7 ± 4.3 mmHg. Complete success at 6 months postoperatively for the given pressure levels: were 92 %, 87 %, 79 % and 52% and at 1 year 87 %, 84 %, 51 % and 56%, respectively. Postoperative relative success for these pressure levels at 6 months were 96 %, 90 %, 81 % and 54% and at 1 year 96 %, 93 %, 58 % and 58%, respectively. Administrations of 5-FU postoperatively were no intervention (n=30 patients), subconjunctival 5-FU administration (n=25) and needling procedures (n=6). A temporary hypotension with a shallow anterior chamber was seen in 6 patients, cataract development in 5 patients and 1 patient developed corneal decompensation (multiple previous operations before trabeculectomy).

CONCLUSION

Trabeculectomy with intraoperative 5-FU administration showed very high success rates after 1 year. Serious complications were rarely seen. Intraoperative 5-FU administration can be considered as an alternative treatment to trabeculectomy with intraoperative use of mitomycin C.

[Modern filtration surgery. An update]

Preoperative treatment with steroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs increases the success of filtration surgery. Surgery with the patient under subconjunctival anesthesia is safe. Intraoperative application of mitomycin C is state of the art and enhances success rates. Perioperative use of bevacizumab seems to attenuate postoperative fibrosis. Postoperative hypotension is avoided by stable fixation of the scleral flap followed by stepwise controlled suturelysis or release. Transconjunctival flap suturing allows fast and simple treatment of overfiltration. The shorter the time lag between trabeculectomy and subsequent cataract surgery the higher the probability of bleb failure will be. The number of antiglaucomatous drugs and severity of glaucomatous damage before surgery correlate with the probability of failure and blindness.

Comparison of trabeculectomy and trabeculectomy with amniotic membrane transplantation in the same patient with bilateral glaucoma

AIM

To observe effects of trabeculectomy with amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) in controlling postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with medically uncontrolled glaucoma.

METHODS

This study included adult patients with requiring bilateral glaucoma surgery. Each patient underwent trabeculectomy (Non-AMT group) in one eye and with AMT (AMT group) in the other eye according to randomized principle. Success was defined as intraocular pressure (IOP)<21mmHg without any anti-glaucoma medications at 24 months follow-up. The two groups were compared in terms of IOP, complications and success rate.

RESULTS

Thirty-four eyes of 17 patients were investigated in this study. There was no statistically signifcant difference in pre-operative IOP between the two groups. The mean IOP was lower in AMT group compared with Non-AMT group on follow up months 12, 18, and 24.Postoperative complications were more frequent in Non-AMT group (35.3%, 6/17) compared with AMT group (5.9%, 1/17). The success rate of surgery was 88.2% (15/17) in Non-AMT group and 100% (17/17) in AMT group.

CONCLUSION

Trabeculectomy with AMT is an effective procedure to reduce IOP and complications, thereby improving surgical success rates.

Subscleral trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C versus ologen for treatment of glaucoma

PURPOSE

To compare the results of subscleral trabeculectomy (SST) augmented with mitomycin-C (MMC) versus Ologen™ implant regarding intraocular pressure (IOP) control and incidence of complications.

METHODS

Sixty eyes of 60 patients, who planned to undergo SST, were divided into 2 groups. Group I eyes (included thirty eyes) were operated upon with SST augmented with intraoperative MMC. Group II eyes (included 30 eyes) were operated upon with SST using an Ologen implant. IOP and bleb status, as well as reporting postoperative complications, were followed up.

RESULTS

The follow-up period was 12 months. At 12 months postoperatively, the mean IOP was 19.33±3.22 mmHg in group I, and 19.87±4.17 mmHg in group II, with no significant difference between groups. One case in each group had hyphema, and 4 cases in group I and 2 cases in group II had shallow anterior chamber. One case in group I and no cases in group II had blebitis. There was no significant difference regarding the complications between both groups.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that the use of the Ologen implant in SST is comparable to the use of MMC with advantage of avoiding the potential dangerous complications related to MMC use in the early (12 months) follow-up period.