MiR-146a reduces fibrosis after glaucoma filtration surgery in rats

PURPOSE

To explore the impact of microRNA 146a (miR-146a) and the underlying mechanisms in profibrotic changes following glaucoma filtering surgery (GFS) in rats and stimulation by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in rat Tenon's capsule fibroblasts.

METHODS

Cultured rat Tenon's capsule fibroblasts were treated with TGF-β1 and analyzed with microarrays for mRNA profiling to validate miR-146a as the target. The Tenon's capsule fibroblasts were then respectively treated with lentivirus-mediated transfection of miR-146a mimic or inhibitor following TGF-β1 stimulation in vitro, while GFS was performed in rat eyes with respective intraoperative administration of miR-146a, mitomycin C (MMC), or 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in vivo. Profibrotic genes expression levels (fibronectin, collagen Iα, NF-KB, IL-1β, TNF-α, SMAD4, and α-smooth muscle actin) were determined through qPCR, Western blotting, immunofluorescence staining and/or histochemical analysis in vitro and in vivo. SMAD4 targeting siRNA was further used to treat the fibroblasts in combination with miR-146a intervention to confirm its role in underlying mechanisms.

RESULTS

Upregulation of miR-146a reduced the proliferation rate and profibrotic changes of rat Tenon's capsule fibroblasts induced by TGF-β1 in vitro, and mitigated subconjunctival fibrosis to extend filtering blebs survival after GFS in vivo, where miR-146a decreased expression levels of NF-KB-SMAD4-related genes, such as fibronectin, collagen Iα, NF-KB, IL-1β, TNF-α, SMAD4, and α-smooth muscle actin(α-SMA). Additionally, SMAD4 is a key target gene in the process of miR-146a inhibiting fibrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

MiR-146a effectively reduced TGF-β1-induced fibrosis in rat Tenon's capsule fibroblasts in vitro and in vivo, potentially through the NF-KB-SMAD4 signaling pathway. MiR-146a shows promise as a novel therapeutic target for preventing fibrosis and improving the success rate of GFS.

Incidence of glaucoma filtration surgery from disease onset of open-angle glaucoma

AIMS

To investigate the rate and risk factors of undergoing glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS) in patients with newly diagnosed open-angle glaucoma (OAG).

METHODS

This is a population-based historic cohort study, consisting of 9420 patients older than 45 years diagnosed with OAG during 1997-2010. Follow-up spanned from 1997 to 2017. We obtained data for trabeculectomy (TRE), deep sclerectomy (DS), and glaucoma drainage implant (GDI) surgeries from national administrative healthcare registers by hospital billing data. We plotted the cumulative incidence of GFS and carried out a multivariate Poisson regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, hospital district, systemic comorbidities, and the number of IOP-lowering drugs. We reported incidence rate ratios (IRR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for GFS after the onset of OAG.

RESULTS

The cumulative incidence of GFS at 5 years from OAG onset was 3.1% and at 10 years 5.4%. Age over 80 years at baseline was associated with lower GFS incidence (IRR 0.51, CI 0.31-0.84). The number of IOP-lowering drugs in the first 2 years of treatment correlated with the risk of GFS increasing from (IRR 3.23, CI 2.32-4.50) for two drugs, (IRR 7.44, CI 5.28-10.47) for three and to (IRR 14.95, CI 10.38-21.52) for four drugs.

CONCLUSION

This study characterized the treatment path of OAG from diagnosis to surgical intervention refining the role of GFS among glaucoma therapies.

MiR-29b Downregulation by p53/Sp1 Complex Plays a Critical Role in Bleb Scar Formation After Glaucoma Filtration Surgery

Purpose

To investigate the function and mechanism of tumor protein p53 in pathological scarring after glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS) using human Tenon's fibroblasts (HTFs) and a rabbit GFS model.

Methods

The expression of p53 in bleb scarring after GFS and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)-induced HTFs (myofibroblasts [MFs]) was examined by western blot and immunochemical analysis. The interaction between p53 and specificity protein 1 (Sp1) was investigated by immunoprecipitation. The role of p53 and Sp1 in the accumulation of collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COL1A1) and the migration of MFs was evaluated by western blot, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), wound healing, and Transwell assay. The regulatory mechanisms among p53/Sp1 and miR-29b were detected via qRT-PCR, western blot, luciferase reporter assay, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. The therapeutic effect of mithramycin A, a specific inhibitor of Sp1, on scarring formation was evaluated in a rabbit GFS model.

Results

p53 was upregulated in bleb scar tissue and MFs. p53 and Sp1 form a transcription factor complex that induces the accumulation of COL1A1 and promotes the migration of MFs through downregulation of miR-29b, a known suppressor of COL1A1. The p53/Sp1 axis inhibits miR-29b expression by the direct binding promoter of the miR-29b gene. Mithramycin A treatment attenuated bleb scar formation in vivo.

Conclusions

The p53/Sp1/miR-29b signaling pathway plays a critical role in bleb scar formation after GFS. This pathway could be targeted for therapeutic intervention of pathological scarring after GFS.

Translational Relevance

Our research indicates that inhibition of p53/Sp1/miR-29b is a promising therapeutic strategy for preventing post-GFS pathological scarring.

Penetrating canaloplasty in angle-closure glaucoma secondary to iridocorneal endothelial syndrome following multiple failed filtering surgeries: A case report

RATIONALE

Angle-closure glaucoma secondary to iridocorneal endothelial syndrome (ICE) is challenging to treat, especially in patients who have already undergone multiple surgical procedures. Long-term success is difficult to achieve with traditional filtration surgery again. This case report describes a novel nonbleb-dependent surgery for managing such a young patient.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 30-year-old male with glaucoma secondary to ICE was referred to West China Hospital, Sichuan University for uncontrolled intraocular pressure following multiple failed filtering surgeries under maximum topical antiglaucoma medications in his right eye.

DIAGNOSES

The patient was diagnosed with angle-closure glaucoma secondary to ICE in the right eye based on a series of ophthalmic examinations.

INTERVENTIONS

Penetrating canaloplasty was performed to manage glaucoma secondary to ICE in the right eye.

OUTCOMES

The patient's visual acuity improved, the intraocular pressure was reduced to 11 to 15 mm Hg through 30 months of follow-up, and no antiglaucoma medication or additional surgical procedures were needed.

LESSONS

Penetrating canaloplasty could be considered as an option for the treatment of refractory angle-closure glaucoma secondary to ICE with extensive angle adhesion.

[Pharmacological modulation of wound healing in glaucoma surgery]

Despite the well-known effectiveness of pharmacological glaucoma therapy, surgical approach remains one of the main treatment options for some forms and stages of the disease. The long-term success of glaucoma surgery depends on the intensity of local wound healing processes at the surgical site. The most common way to influence healing processes in surgical treatment of glaucoma is the use of antimetabolites. However, given the high risk of serious complications associated with their use, the search for new drugs devoid of these disadvantages continues. The aim of this review is to describe the efficacy and safety of both currently used and upcoming pharmacological ways to influence the wound healing process after glaucoma surgery in order to improve the stability of hypotensive effect.

Changes in eyelid position after glaucoma filtering surgery

BACKGROUND

While ptosis is a well-known consequence of glaucoma surgery, some isolated case reports point to the possibility of upper eyelid retraction occurring after glaucoma surgery. This study aims to analyze the occurrence of ptosis and eyelid retraction after glaucoma surgery and to evaluate factors contributing to these palpebral fissure changes.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study including 100 eyes of 100 patients that had undergone unilateral glaucoma surgery. Upper eyelid height in the operated eye was measured by digital photography and compared with the fellow, non-operated eye. The main outcome was to determine if ptosis or retraction occurred in the operated eye in comparison with the fellow eye. The secondary outcome was to determine if any variable was associated with ptosis or retraction. A clinically significant difference (either toward ptosis or retraction) was defined as a difference ≥1 mm between both eyes.

RESULTS

Of 100 eyes included 81 (81%) showed no change in eyelid height (-0.133 mm ± 0.496), 11 (11%) showed ptosis (-1.348 mm ± 0.387) and 8 eyes (8%) showed retraction (1.705 ± 0.634). A statistically significant relation was found between ptosis and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (p = 0.003). A trend toward lower postoperative IOP and higher conjunctival blebs was found in eyes with postoperative eyelid retraction.

CONCLUSIONS

Eyelid retraction was present in 8% of patients and ptosis in 11%. Patients with eyelid retraction showed around a 3 mmHg lower postoperative IOP than eyes without retraction. The presence of pseudoexfoliation may be a risk factor for this complication. A prospective study with a large number of patients would be required to confirm these results.

Pluripotent epigenetic regulator OBP-801 maintains filtering blebs in glaucoma filtration surgery model

Inhibition of fibrosis is indispensable for maintaining filtering blebs after glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS). The purpose of this study was to investigate the ability of a pluripotent epigenetic regulator OBP-801 (OBP) to ameliorate extracellular matrix formation in a rabbit model of GFS. Rabbits that underwent GFS were treated with OBP. The gene expression profiles and intraocular pressure (IOP) were monitored until 30 postoperative days. The bleb tissues were evaluated for tissue fibrosis at 30 postoperative days. In in vitro models, OBP interfered the functions of diverse genes during the wound-healing process. In in vivo GFS models, the expressions of TGF-β3, MMP-2, TIMP-2 and 3, LOX, COL1A and SERPINH1 were significantly inhibited at 30 postoperative days in the OBP group compared with those in the vehicle control group. OBP treatment involving subconjunctival injection or eye drops showed no adverse effects, and reduced levels of α-SMA and collagen deposition at the surgical wound site. OBP maintained the long-lived bleb without scar formation, and IOP was lower at 30 postoperative days compared with the vehicle control group. These findings suggest that OBP is an effective and useful candidate low-molecular-weight agent for improving wound healing and surgical outcomes in a rabbit model of GFS.

Canaloplasty for the treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma: A protocol of systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Canaloplasty has been reported to manage primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) effectively. However, no study has specifically and systematically investigated the efficacy and safety of canaloplasty for the treatment of POAG. Thus, this study will systematically and comprehensively appraise the efficacy and safety of canaloplasty for the treatment of POAG.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure will be sought from the construction to the February 29, 2020. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focusing on canaloplasty for the treatment of POAG will be included. Two reviewers will independently undertake selection of study, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment. Any doubts between 2 reviewers will be resolved through discussion with another experienced reviewer. RevMan 5.3 software will be employed for data analysis.

RESULTS

This study will summarize high-quality RCTs on investigating efficacy and safety of canaloplasty for the treatment of POAG.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study will help to determine whether canaloplasty is effective and safety for the treatment of POAG.Systematic review registration: INPLASY202040119.

Management of the hyper-filtrating ischaemic bleb: crosslinking with riboflavin and UV radiation versus a conjunctival sliding flap and conjunctival autologous graft

INTRODUCTION

This article compares and evaluates the safety and clinical results of 3techniques for the management of hyper-filtrating ischaemic bleb in glaucoma, such as collagen crosslinking (CXL) with riboflavin versus conjunctival sliding and conjunctival autologous graft.

METHODS

A total of 24 eyes were selected from 18 patients with ischemic blebs that underwent filtering glaucoma surgery between 2012 and 2017 and subjected them to crosslinking using riboflavin (n=4), conjunctival autologous graft (n=5), and conjunctival sliding (n=15). The results of the intraocular pressure (IOP) prior to the procedure and at 12 months were compared, as well as visual acuity and previous anti-glaucoma medication at 12 months.

RESULTS

The 4eyes that underwent CXL, went from a previous mean IOP of 12.11 ± 3.14 to an IOP of 12.32 ±5.29 at one year (P=.655). Five eyes were treated by conjunctival autologous graft, had a previous mean IOP of 11.65 ± 5.76 and an IOP at one year of 14.68 ± 7.21 (P=.273). Fifteen eyes subjected to conjunctival sliding had a previous IOP of 9.32 ±5.34 and at one year it was 15.16 ± 9.24 (P=.021). There were no adverse effects or complications associated with any of the 3techniques.

CONCLUSIONS

The management of the hyper-filtrating ischaemic bleb is difficult. Surgical procedures are associated with increased IOP and need for medication, while CXL using riboflavin and UV radiation does not seem to have an effect on the revitalisation of the bleb.

The treatment of a hypertrophic bleb after XEN gel implantation with the "Drainage Channel with sutures" method: a case report

BACKGROUND

The placement of a XEN gel stent is an ab-interno, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery which provides a subconjunctival drainage pathway and decreases intraocular pressure (IOP).

CASE PRESENTATION

A 75-year-old male patient who had undergone XEN45 gel implantation after phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation appealed to the clinic. A filtration bleb was seen that extended through the nasal 180 degrees of the eye which caused ectropion of the lower eyelid. The value of the IOP was 12 mm Hg (mmHg). By the "Drainage Channel with Sutures" method this complication was effectively treated. As with every new method, there is a lack of knowledge about long-term outcomes in terms of effectiveness, technique and complications.

CONCLUSION

The "Drainage Channel with Sutures" method has not been described in the literature yet. By this minimal invasive method, hypertrophic bleb complication of XEN gel implant has been successfully treated.

Management of Delayed Massive Suprachoroidal Hemorrhage: A Clinical Retrospective Study

Suprachoroidal hemorrhages, both expulsive and delayed non-expulsive, are among the most devastating complications of intraocular surgery. We reviewed the charts of 13 patients with a delayed non-expulsive suprachoroidal hemorrhage (DNSCH) after cataract extraction (3 patients), glaucoma filtering surgery (6 patients), penetrating keratoplasty (3 patients), or vitrectomy (1 patient). All had large hemorrhagic choroidal detachments with nine eyes presenting kissing choroidal detachment, five eyes with associated retinal detachment, and one eye with intravitreous hemorrhage. All patients were treated with systemic corticosteroids before surgery. Eleven eyes underwent anterior drainage sclerotomy, followed by SF6 gas injection in eight eyes, and pars plana vitrectomy with silicon oil tamponade in three eyes. Mean follow-up was 22 months. These procedures gave good anatomical results in eleven cases and good visual results in nine. The results suggest that not all DNSCH need to be drained surgically but that, when surgical drainage is indicated, the use of gas to maintain internal tamponade appears to be beneficial.

Custom RT-qPCR-array for glaucoma filtering surgery prognosis

Excessive subconjunctival scarring is the main reason of failure of glaucoma filtration surgery. We analyzed conjunctival and systemic gene expression patterns after non penetrating deep sclerectomy (NPDS). To find expression patterns related to surgical failure and their correlation with the clinical outcomes. This study consisted of two consecutive stages. The first was a prospective analysis of wound-healing gene expression profile of six patients after NPDS. Conjunctival samples and peripheral blood samples were collected before and 15, 90,180, and 360 days after surgery. In the second stage, we conducted a retrospective analysis correlating the late conjunctival gene expression and the outcome of the NPDS for 11 patients. We developed a RT-qPCR Array for 88 key genes associated to wound healing. RT-qPCR Array analysis of conjunctiva samples showed statistically significant differences in 29/88 genes in the early stages after surgery, 20/88 genes between 90 and 180 days after surgery, and only 2/88 genes one year after surgery. In the blood samples, the most important changes occurred in 12/88 genes in the first 15 days after surgery. Correspondence analyses (COA) revealed significant differences between the expression of 20/88 genes in patients with surgical success and failure one year after surgery. Different expression patterns of mediators of the bleb wound healing were identified. Examination of such patterns might be used in surgery prognosis. RT-qPCR Array provides a powerful tool for investigation of differential gene expression wound healing after glaucoma surgery.

Difference in glaucoma progression between the first and second eye after consecutive bilateral glaucoma surgery in patients with bilateral uveitic glaucoma

PURPOSE

To determine whether the second eyes (SE) of patients with bilateral uveitic glaucoma undergoing filtration surgery have more glaucomatous progression in terms of visual acuity, visual field (VF) and optic nerve changes compared to the first eyes (FE).

METHODS

This retrospective study analysed data of 60 eyes from 30 patients with bilateral uveitic glaucoma who had undergone glaucoma surgery in both eyes on separate occasions. Humphrey VF progression was assessed using the Progressor software.

RESULTS

The pre-operative IOP between the FE (43.1 ± 7.7 mmHg) and SE (40 ± 8.7 mmHg) was not statistically significant (p = 0.15). IOP reduction was greater in the FE (64 %) than SE (59.7 %) post-operatively, but the mean IOP at the final visit in the FE (12.3 ± 3.9 mmHg) and SE (14.5 ± 7 mmHg) was not statistically different (p = 0.2). There was no significant change in mean logMAR readings pre and post-operatively (0.45 ± 0.6 vs 0.37 ± 0.6, p = 0.4) or between the FE and SE. The number of SE with CDR > 0.7 increased by 23 % compared to the FE. From 23 available VFs, five SE (21.7 %) progressed at a median of five locations (range 1-11 points) with a mean local slope reduction of 1.74 ± 0.45 dB/year (range -2.39 to -1.26), whereas only one FE progressed. However, there was no significant difference between mean global rate of progression between the FE (-0.9 ± 1.6 dB/year) and SE (-0.76 ± 2.1 dB/year, p = 0.17) in the Humphrey VF.

CONCLUSION

In eyes with bilateral uveitic glaucoma requiring glaucoma surgery, the SEs had more progressed points on VF and glaucomatous disc progression compared to FEs at the final visit.

OUTER RETINAL ATROPHY ON SPECTRAL DOMAIN OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY AFTER RESOLUTION OF GLAUCOMA SURGERY-ASSOCIATED HYPOTONY MACULOPATHY

PURPOSE

To report two cases of persistent central vision loss after resolution of filtration surgery-associated hypotony, corresponding with foveal outer retinal atrophy on spectral domain optical coherence tomography.

METHODS

Retrospective observational case series. A retrospective chart review was conducted of two patients with persistent vision loss after normalization of intraocular pressure and resolution of glaucoma surgery-associated hypotony maculopathy.

RESULTS

Several months after glaucoma surgery and resolution of hypotony, both patients suffered persistent vision loss and new foveal photoreceptor loss on spectral domain optical coherence tomography.

CONCLUSION

This is the first case series demonstrating foveal outer retinal atrophy on spectral domain optical coherence tomography after resolution of glaucoma surgery-associated hypotony maculopathy. Both patients had previous uveitis that was controlled at the time of hypotony. Eyes with previous hypotony and compromised ciliary body function may be at greater risk of photoreceptor damage.

Inhibition by a retinoic acid receptor γ agonist of extracellular matrix remodeling mediated by human Tenon fibroblasts

PURPOSE

Scar formation is most frequently responsible for the failure of glaucoma filtration surgery. Retinoic acids are vitamin A derivatives that play diverse roles in development, immunity, and tissue repair. The effects of the retinoic acid receptor (RAR) γ agonist R667 on the contractility of human Tenon fibroblasts (HTFs) cultured in a three-dimensional collagen gel as well as on intraocular pressure (IOP) in a rat model of glaucoma filtration surgery were investigated.

METHODS

HTFs were cultured in a type I collagen gel, the contraction of which was evaluated by measurement of the gel diameter. The release of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) into culture supernatants was assessed with immunoblot analysis and gelatin zymography. Phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) was examined with immunoblot analysis, and production of fibronectin and type I collagen was measured with immunoassays.

RESULTS

R667 inhibited transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)-induced collagen gel contraction mediated by HTFs in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, whereas an RARα agonist inhibited this process to a lesser extent and an RARβ agonist had no effect. TGF-β1-induced MMP-1 and MMP-3 release, FAK phosphorylation, and fibronectin and type I collagen production in HTFs were also attenuated by R667. Furthermore, R667 lowered IOP in rats after glaucoma filtration surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

R667 inhibited TGF-β1-induced contraction and extracellular matrix synthesis in HTFs. Such effects might have contributed to the lowering of IOP by R667 in a rat model of glaucoma filtration surgery. RARγ agonists might thus prove effective for inhibition of scar formation after such surgery.

Effects of bevacizumab loaded PEG-PCL-PEG hydrogel intracameral application on intraocular pressure after glaucoma filtration surgery

PEG-PCL-PEG (PECE) hydrogel for intracameral injection as a sustained delivery system can get a stable release of the medication and achieve an effective local concentration. The injectable PECE hydrogel is thermosensitive nano-material which is flowing sol at low temperature and can shift to nonflowing gel at body temperature. This study evaluated the intracameral injection of bevacizumab combined with a PECE hydrogel drug release system on postoperative scarring and bleb survival after experimental glaucoma filtration surgery. The best result was achieved in the bevacizumab loaded PECE hydrogels group, which presented the lowest IOP values after surgery. And the blebs were significantly more persistent in this group. Histology, Massion trichrome staining and immunohistochemistry further demonstrated that glaucoma filtration surgery in combination with bevacizumab loaded PECE hydrogel resulted in good bleb survival due to scar formation inhibition. In conclusions, this study demonstrated that bevacizumab-loaded PECE hydrogel for intracameral injection as a sustained delivery system provide a great opportunity to increase the therapeutic efficacy of glaucoma filtration surgery.

Rho kinase inhibitor AMA0526 improves surgical outcome in a rabbit model of glaucoma filtration surgery

PURPOSE

First, to elucidate the effect of Rho kinase inhibitor, AMA0526, on Human Tenon Fibroblast (HTF) proliferation and transdifferentiation to myofibroblasts. Second, the effects of ROCK inhibition on the wound healing process and surgical outcome were investigated in a rabbit model of glaucoma filtration surgery.

METHODS

After exposure of HTF to AMA0526 (0.1-25 μM), a water-soluble tetrazolium salt-1 assay and caspase 3/7 activity assay were used to assess its effect on cell proliferation and to elucidate any toxic effects, respectively. Immunohistochemistry of α-smooth muscle actin expression was used to investigate fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation induced by transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) in the presence or absence of the ROCK inhibitor. The effect of topical treatment was studied in a rabbit model of glaucoma filtration surgery. Treatment outcome was studied by performing intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements and clinical investigation of the bleb area and survival. Immunohistological analysis for inflammation (CD45), angiogenesis (CD31), and collagen I was performed at day 8, 14, and 30 after surgery (n=5/time point). Separate control groups treated with vehicle were used as control.

RESULTS

In vitro results showed that AMA0526 dose dependently inhibited proliferation of HTF (P<0.05) without the induction of caspase 3/7 activity. Incubation of HTF with the AMA0526 inhibited TGF-β1 induced fibroblast-to-myofibroblast differentiation. In the rabbit model, topical treatment significantly improved surgical outcome. Compared to vehicle-treated eyes, AMA0526 resulted in increased bleb area (P<0.0001) and prolonged survival (P=0.0025). IOP remained significantly lower throughout the course of the experiment in the AMA0526 group (P<0.0001). Histological evaluation revealed that blebs treated with the ROCK inhibitor were characterized by reduced inflammation, angiogenesis, and collagen deposition at the site of filtration surgery (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

AMA0526 had profound effects on HTF proliferation and myofibroblast transition and improved glaucoma filtration surgery outcome by interfering at different levels of the wound healing process. Therefore, these data indicate that ROCK inhibitors may be considered as more physiological agents which specifically target the wound healing process to improve the outcome of glaucoma surgery.

[The comparison of short-term outcome between aqueous drainage pathway reconstruction surgery versus canaloplasty for open angle glaucoma]

OBJECTIVE

To compare the safety and efficacy between canaloplasty and aqueous drainage pathway reconstruction surgery in patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG).

METHODS

It is a retrospective case series study. Thirty-one eyes (25 patients) with OAG were divided into canaloplasty (n = 17; 54.8%) group or aqueous drainage pathway reconstruction (n = 14; 45.2%) group. The intraocular pressure (IOP), numbers of IOP-lowering medications and incidence of complications were recorded at 1 day, 1 week, 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after the operation. Independent-samples T test was used to compare the IOP, numbers of IOP-lowering medications before and 1, 3, 6, 12, 24 months after surgery between two groups. Kaplan-Meier Survival Analysis was used to analyze the success rate of these two surgical methods. Log rank test was used to compare the difference of cumulative success rate at 6, 12 months after surgery.

RESULTS

The mean IOP values were (24.7 ± 8.7) , (14.5 ± 2.5), (14.9 ± 2.5) , (14.9 ± 2.5), (14.7 ± 2.1) and (15.4 ± 2.3) mmHg (1 mmHg = 0.133 kPa) in canaloplasty group at before surgery, 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after surgery. The same values were (28.5 ± 10.6), (14.3 ± 3.6), (14.2 ± 3.2), (14.3 ± 3.6), (15.9 ± 3.2) and (14.6 ± 0.7) mmHg in aqueous drainage pathway reconstruction group. There was no difference in the extent of IOP reduction between these two groups (preoperative: t = -1.1014, P = 0.278; postoperative 1 month: t = 0.696, P = 0.492;3 month: t = 0.594, P = 0.557; 6 month: t = 0.536, P = 0.596; 12 month: t = -1.127, P = 0.273; 24 month: t = 0.455, P = 0.656). There were significant differences (P < 0.01) in post-surgery IOP lowering medication usage between these two groups, while pre-surgery medication usage were similar. The incidence of hyphema was significantly lower in aqueous drainage pathway reconstruction surgery group (2 eyes) than that in canaloplasty group (11 eyes).

CONCLUSIONS

Both canaloplasty and aqueous drainage pathway reconstruction could reduce IOP effectively for open-angle glaucoma. The incidence of complication was lower in the aqueous drainage pathway reconstruction group than canaloplasty group. However, long-term efficacy between these two groups is yet to be determined.

Changes in visual acuity and intra-ocular pressure following bleb-related infection: the Japan Glaucoma Society Survey of Bleb-related Infection Report 2

PURPOSE

To identify changes in visual acuity and intra-ocular pressure (IOP) 12 months after the development of bleb-related infection.

METHODS

Data obtained from 146 eyes of 146 patients with bleb-related infection were analyzed as a part of the Japan Glaucoma Society Survey of Bleb-related Infection. Multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with poor prognosis in visual acuity and increased IOP and for being stage III.

RESULTS

The logMAR increased by a mean of 0.140, 0.440, 1.099 and 1.122 at 12 months postinfection for stage I, II, IIIa and IIIb infections, respectively. The logMAR was significantly worse at 6 and 12 months postinfection in stage IIIb (p = 0.002 and p = 0.003, respectively; Wilcoxon signed-rank test) and at 6 months postinfection in stage IIIa (p = 0.036). The IOP was significantly elevated following infection in both stage IIIa and stage IIIb (p = 0.028 and p = 0.008 at 6 and 12 months, respectively, for stage IIIa; p = 0.002 and p = 0.005 for stage IIIb). The multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that being stage III and positive culture were significant risk factors for poor outcome for visual acuity (Odds ratio: 9.26 and 6.29, respectively) and that being stage III was a prognostic factor for increased IOP (Odds ratio: 8.33). Pseudophakia or aphakia was significantly associated with stage III and stage IIIb infections (Odds ratio: 2.85 and 6.30).

CONCLUSIONS

Stage III bleb-related infection causes significant visual loss and IOP elevation within 12 months after development. Therefore, preventative measures should be taken, especially in cases that are pseudophakic or aphakic.

A retrospective and consecutive study of viscocanalostomy versus trabeculectomy for primary congenital glaucoma

BACKGROUND

Surgical interventions are the main treatment for primary congenital glaucoma (PCG). This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety between viscocanalostomy and mitomycin C (MMC)-trabeculectomy in patients with PCG.

METHODS

A total number of 43 patients with PCG who underwent either viscocanalostomy (group 1) or MMC- trabeculectomy (group 2) between June 2003 and June 2008 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients' intraocular pressures (IOPs) were examined before surgery and on day 1, week 1, month 1, month 6, and month 12 post-operative. Mean horizontal corneal diameters, success rates, intra- and post-operative complications were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Pre-operative IOPs were (31.96 ± 3.90) mmHg in group 1 and (32.56 ± 4.00) mmHg in group 2. At the last visit, IOPs were (16.78 ± 2.20) mmHg and (15.77 ± 2.60) mmHg, respectively (P < 0.001); the complete success rates of group 1 and group 2 were 45.9% and 67.4%, respectively, and the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.158). There were no major complications occurred in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Both viscocanalostomy and trabeculectomy can lower IOP in PCG patients effectively. Although there was no major complications occurred in both groups, viscocanlostomy may decrease the probability of postoperative haemorrhage, hypotony, cataract, or choroid effusion.

Central serous retinal detachment following glaucoma filtration surgery

We report the occurrence of central serous retinal detachment in association with hypotony in a patient that had undergone glaucoma filtration surgery. A 35-year-old man, who had a recent closed-globe injury, underwent trabeculectomy with mitomycin C for intractable traumatic glaucoma. On the second day after surgery, the eye became hypotonous and the patient's visual acuity decreased abruptly to counting fingers. Fundoscopy and optical coherence tomography revealed a central serous retinal detachment. Fundus florescein angiography showed choroidal leakage from traumatic perifoveal retinal pigment epithelial defects. Although the hypotony resolved within the first postoperative week, it took 2 months for the central serous retinal detachment to clear. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of isolated central serous retinal detachment following glaucoma filtration surgery.

Prevention of ocular scarring post glaucoma filtration surgery using the inflammatory cell and platelet binding modulator saratin in a rabbit model

Clinical Relevance

Late complications can occur with use of current antimetabolites to prevent scarring following glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS). Safer, more targeted, anti-fibrosis agents are sought.

Objectives

The protein saratin has been shown to exhibit anti-fibrotic and anti-thrombotic properties in response to injury, but had not been used for glaucoma surgery. The goal of this study was to compare the efficacy of saratin with that of the widely accepted mitomycin-C (MMC) in prolonging bleb survival following GFS in the rabbit model. Two saratin delivery routes were compared; a single intraoperative topical application versus a combination of intraoperative topical application with two additional postoperative injections.

Methods

Twenty-four New Zealand White rabbits underwent GFS and received either intraoperative topical saratin, intraoperative topical saratin plus two injections on post-operative days 4 and 8, balanced saline solution (BSS), or MMC. The bleb tissues and their elevation durations were compared based on clinical and histological findings.

Results

Rabbits receiving topical+injections of saratin had a mean bleb survival of 33.6±8.5 days, significantly higher than the negative BSS controls, which averaged 17.4±6.0 days (p = 0.018). No improvement over BSS was seen for rabbits receiving topical saratin only (15.5±4.8 days, p = 0.749). Rabbits receiving saratin did not develop bleb avascularity and thinning associated with MMC treatment and there were no apparent clinical signs of toxicity.

Conclusions

Treatment with a single intraoperative topical application plus two additional postoperative injections significantly prolonged bleb elevation comparable to MMC, but without toxicity; however, topical application alone was ineffective.

Macular changes detected by Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography in patients with hypotony without clinical maculopathy

PURPOSE

To investigate macular changes in eyes with postoperative hypotony without clinical maculopathy using high-resolution Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT).

METHODS

Fourteen eyes of 12 patients with postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) ￡ 6 mmHg for at least 4 weeks but with no detectable clinical features associated with hypotony maculopathy were imaged by FD-OCT prospectively. Images were analysed by two retina specialists masked to clinical findings.

RESULTS

Most patients were female (83%) and myopic (75%) with a mean age of 65 ± 17 [standard deviation (SD)] years (range 2–86 years). Mean central corneal thickness was 519 ± 34 lm [95% confidence interval (CI) 502–537] and mean IOP before surgery was 20 ± 8 mmHg (95% CI 15–24). During the period of hypotony (mean 15 ± 6 weeks), the average mean IOP was 4 ± 1 mmHg (95% CI 3–5). Abnormal FD-OCT findings (retinal folds and ⁄ or intraretinal fluid) were present in eight eyes. These patients had a higher rate of visual symptoms (75% versus 17%), visual acuity loss (‡ 2 lines; 63% versus 17%) and increased mean foveal thickness (250 ± 26 versus 210 ± 12 lm; p < 0.01, Mann–Whitney U-test) compared with those with normal FD-OCT.

CONCLUSION

FD-OCT identified subclinical macular abnormalities in over half of the eyes with postoperative hypotony. These findings were accompanied by visual disturbances and central macular thickening. FD-OCT can be an important diagnostic tool for this disorder when clinical features are absent.

[Clinical analysis of glaucoma bleb-associated endophthalmitis]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical characteristics, causative organisms, treatment procedures and prognosis of glaucoma bleb-associated endophthalmitis.

METHODS

It was a retrospective case series study. All cases were patients with glaucoma bleb-associated endophthalmitis treated at Shandong Eye Institute, Qingdao Eye Hospital between January 1, 1997 and December 31, 2009. All patients had prior glaucoma filtering surgery.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients (20 eyes) were identified. There were 16 males (17 eyes, 85%) and 3 females (3 eyes, 15%). The mean age at presentation was (46.9 ± 16.1) years (ranged 15 to 71 years). In 14 patients (15 eyes) the glaucoma operation was performed in our hospital, and an antifibrotic agent was used (mitomycin, 0.5 g/L, 2 min), shallow anterior chamber and hypotony occurred in early postoperative period in 8 eyes (53.3%). Glaucoma operation was performed in other hospitals in 5 patients (5 eyes). Eight cases (8 eyes) received glaucoma operation more than two times. The mean interval between the last filtering surgery and the diagnosis of endophthalmitis was 29.5 ± 32.2 months (ranged 15 days to 10 years). Mainly clinical features included bleb infection, anterior chamber inflammatory exudation, hypopyon and vitreous opacities. Bleb leakage occurred in 63.6% eyes and bleb was located inferiorly in 5 eyes (25.0%). The incidence of inferior bleb-related endophthalmitis was higher than that of the superior bleb (19.2% versus 0.6%). The most common causative organisms were staphylococcus species. The initial treatments included intravenous and topical antibiotics, intravitreal injection of antibiotics, pars plana vitrectomy. These treatments could effectively control the endophthalmitis. The visual prognosis was good, 80% patients achieved increase of vision after treatment and 55% patients regained original visual acuity. Eye ball was preserved in 13 (68.4%) of 19 eyes, intraocular pressure (IOP) was controlled at last follow-up after the treatment of endophthalmitis. IOP was controlled by 1 or 2 drugs in 5 eyes (26.3%) and 1 eye (5.3%) received trabeculectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Glaucoma bleb-associated endophthalmitis is a serious complication following glaucoma filtering surgery which threats patients visual acuity significantly. It can occur at any time after the operation. Staphylococcus species is the most common causative organisms. Bleb leakage and inferior bleb location are the possible causative factors. Patients should be immediately treated by intra-vitreal injection and/or vitrectomy. If the treatment is timely and effective, the visual prognosis is good.

Hyaluronic acid treatment for upper eyelid retraction after glaucoma filtering surgery

A 51-year old female presented with upper lid retraction after glaucoma filtering surgery. After two surgical procedures to correct the retraction with only transient effect, she was finally treated with hyaluronic acid gel filling achieving good aesthetic and functional result.

[Viscocanalostomy: preliminary clinical results]

PURPOSE

Filtration surgery has shifted in the past 20 years to a nonperforating surgery to reduce complications. The purpose of this study was to assess the short-term clinical results and complications of viscocanalostomy.

PATIENT AND METHODS

In a prospective and nonrandomized study, 107 consecutive eyes of 67 patients who underwent viscocanalostomy were analyzed. The surgeon conducted postoperative care. The minimal follow-up was 1 year, with a mean follow-up of 13.1 months (range, 12-18 months). The criteria for success were defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) less than 21 mmHg without treatment.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative intraocular pressure was 28.3 mmHg while the mean postoperative intraocular pressure was 5.4 mmHg on the first day and 10.2 mmHg at 13 months. The rate of patients who had intraocular pressure below 21 mmHg with or without treatment was 98% at 13 months. The complete success rate without treatment was 80% at 13 months. Seven cases of ocular hypotony lasting more than 1 month were noted.

CONCLUSION

Viscocanalostomy is a promising procedure because in the short term it provides good tonometric results in glaucomatous patients without the complications of trabeculectomy. However, it remains a technique with a learning curve.

Late-onset Haemophilus Influenzae endophthalmitis in an immunized child after Baerveldt implant

Endophthalmitis after a glaucoma drainage implant is uncommon. In a case series of drainage implant-associated endophthalmitis, tube exposure was present in all cases.(1) Among the organisms cultured from these eyes was Haemophilus influenzae. After the introduction of the H. influenzae type b vaccine, infections related to this bacterium dramatically decreased in children. We report a case of late-onset H. influenzae endophthalmitis in an immunized child after bilateral glaucoma drainage implants without evidence of conjunctival erosion or wound dehiscence.

[Dosage and kinetics of MMC release of a collagen implant used as a delivery device in glaucoma surgery in the rabbit eye]

PURPOSE

To determine the absorption and the release of mitomycin-C from a collagen implant and tissue impregnation in the anterior structures of the rabbit eye.

METHODS

Determining the quantity of mitomycin-C that a collagen implant can absorb with the difference between dry and soaked weight. Mitomycin-C release was measured in vitro using spectrophotometry. The measurement was repeated using a bioassay. Ocular tissue impregnation was determined in 12 eyes of six rabbits. Sclera, implant, aqueous, and ciliary body specimens were collected for concentration measurement using HPLC from 1 to 6 h after surgery.

RESULTS

The mean mitomycin-C quantity absorbed in the implant was 3.22+/-0.2 microg. In vitro release was 0.13 mg/ml after 10 min and 0.05 microg/ml at 6 h. The bioassay showed almost no antifibrotic activity in sclera. In vivo release of mitomycin-C was high from the first to the sixth hour.

CONCLUSION

After filtering surgery, mitomycin-C in the collagen implant is clearly released and ocular tissues are effectively impregnated.

[Late needling with 5-fluorouracil when scarring of filtering bleb seems imminent]

BACKGROUND

Evaluation of needling and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) injections more than 4 months after preceding filtration surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

Retrospective analysis of 17 eyes in 14 patients who underwent needling of the filtering bleb and administration of 5-FU by injection at least 4 months after trabeculectomy (TE) with mitomycin C (MMC; same surgeon throughout). Complete success was defined as a reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) by >30% from the baseline value without further medication and, in cases of primary open-angle glaucoma, IOP of 18 mmHg. The mean period of follow-up was 8.1 months (3-24 months).

RESULTS

One to four needlings (Ø 1.6) with one to five injections (Ø 3.1) of 5-FU were performed as required according to clinical need an average of 31.3 months (4-108 m) after TE. The mean baseline IOP was 25 mmHg (+/-SD 6.02; median 25 mmHg). After needling and 5-FU injection the mean IOD at the last hospital visit was 13.64 mmHg (+/-SD 5.2, median 13 mmHg; p<0,001). Complete success was achieved in 82.4% of these cases. The mean reduction in IOP was 11.2 mmHg (0-22 mmHg). In the cases with successful outcome (14 of 17 eyes) the mean IOP reduction from baseline was 55%. Three eyes required further treatment. Complications encountered were hyphaema (2 cases), subconjunctival bleeding (1 case) and corneal erosion (3 cases).

CONCLUSION

Late needling and injections of 5-FU can restore filtering bleb function even over 4 months after initial surgery. The high success rate and low incidence of complications together with the simple procedure justify regarding this approach as an alternative that can be used before passing on to more invasive interventions.

[Postoperative care after glaucoma filtration surgery]

Scarring of the filtering bleb is the main complication after glaucoma filtration surgery. Postoperative care most importantly determines success or failure of the operation. Both, preoperative antiinflammatory treatment and reduction or discontinuation of topical medication have a positive effect on postoperative conjunctival wound healing. After conventional postoperative care only about 40% of patients reach target pressures in the long-term without topical medication. Intensified postoperative care (IPC) increases the success rate by 25% after 5 years. Central to the concept of IPC is a wound modulating therapy which is adapted to the phases of wound healing of the filtering bleb. Evaluation of filtering bleb morphology is a prerequisite for the application of topical steroids and 5-fluorouracil. In addition, dedicated counseling of the patient and close follow-up are mandatory. In order to further increase the success rate of penetrating glaucoma surgery and decrease the side effects of the current antimetabolite therapy more research on wound healing as well as specific therapy to prevent scarring are necessary.

Viscocanalostomy versus trabeculotomy ab externo in primary congenital glaucoma: 1-year follow-up of a prospective controlled pilot study

AIM

To study the effectiveness of viscocanalostomy in patients with primary congenital glaucoma of the isolated trabecular dysgenesis category and compare it with trabeculotomy ab externo.

METHODS

Eight patients with bilateral primary congenital glaucoma were enrolled in the study. After establishing the diagnosis, the more severely affected eye was randomly selected to undergo either trabeculotomy ab externo or viscocanalostomy, whereas the second eye underwent the other surgery 2 weeks after the first. The patients were examined on day 1, week 1, week 4 and thereafter every 4 weeks. Intraocular pressure (IOP) and corneal diameter measurements were obtained at week 1, month 6 and at the last reported follow-up. The paired-sample's Student's t test was applied for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The mean (standard deviation (SD)) follow-up period was 12.5 (1.86) months. Preoperative IOP of eyes undergoing trabeculotomy (34.0 (2.6) mm Hg) and that of eyes undergoing viscocanalostomy (32.3 (4.1) mm Hg) showed no significant difference (p>0.1). A drop in IOP was noted in both groups at week 1, month 6 and at the last follow-up visit (p<0.001). Similarly, a decrease in the postoperative vertical and horizontal corneal diameters was noted in the two study groups.

CONCLUSION

Viscocanalostomy proved to be as effective as trabeculotomy ab externo in lowering IOP. Moreover, it is likely to be a good surgical alternative with a higher long-term success rate in eyes with more aggressive disease.

Spontaneous extrusion of a stainless steel glaucoma drainage implant (Ex-PRESS)

PURPOSE

To report a case of spontaneous extrusion of a stainless steel glaucoma drainage implant (Ex-PRESS).

METHODS

An Ex-PRESS was implanted under the conjunctiva in a 76-year-old man with primary open-angle glaucoma.

RESULTS

Two years after implantation, the Ex-Press extruded spontaneously. Despite this adverse event, there was no increase in intraocular pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report of spontaneous extrusion of an Ex-PRESS device. Implanting the device under a scleral flap should be considered to avoid adverse events such as extrusion or conjunctival erosion.

Goniotomy Ab interno “a glaucoma filtering surgery” using the fugo plasma blade

Sixteen eyes with absolute glaucoma were treated and followed up for a minimum of six months. Goniotomy ab interno using the Fugo Blade was found to be a safe alternative to conventional trabeculectomy, which safely and effectively reduced intraocular pressure in more than 80% of cases.

Intracameral 2.3% sodium hyaluronate to treat postoperative hypotony in patients with glaucoma

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the intracameral use of Healon5 (2.3% sodium hyaluronate) (Advanced Medical Optics, Santa Ana, CA) in patients with hypotony.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifteen consecutive patients with glaucoma who had hypotony for at least 7 days were prospectively recruited. Indications for the intracameral injection of Healon5 were an intraocular pressure (IOP) of less than 6 mm Hg with negative results on Seidel test.

RESULTS

The mean IOP readings at baseline, 1 to 2 weeks post-injection, and 4 to 6 weeks post-injection were 3.8 +/- 1.58, 6.58 +/- 2.62, and 6.50 +/- 2.24 mm Hg, respectively. The increase in IOP at both follow-up points was significant (P < .01). The visual acuity improvement was small but significant at the 4 to 6 week point (P = .05). In the early-onset cases, IOP increased significantly from baseline at both follow-up points (P< .05), but visual acuity did not. No significant change from baseline IOP or visual acuity occurred among the late-onset cases. The existing hypotony-related conditions consistently improved by the 4 to 6 week point.

CONCLUSIONS

Intracameral injection of Healon5 raised IOP more in early-onset hypotony cases than in late-onset cases. Although the improvements in IOP and visual acuity were statistically significant, the overall clinical picture did not change because the endpoint IOP was still hypotonus. Twenty percent of the patients had IOP spikes that required medical treatment.

Comparative safety profile between "modern" trabeculectomy and non-penetrationg deep sclerectomy

PURPOSE

To compare the incidence and the severity of short-and medium-term complications following "modern" trabeculectomy (mTRAB) with non-penetrating deep sclerectomy (NPDS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Comparative retrospective nonrandomized study including 65 eyes (55 patients) (mean age: 68.6 years) with medically uncontrolled glaucoma. mTRAB was performed in 43 eyes, NPDS in 22 eyes. mTRAB was performed according to a slightly modified P.T. Khaw protocol. NPDS procedures were done according to Kozlov's and Mermoud's technique with SKGEL implant in 18/22 eyes. Intraoperative antimetabolites (AMETAB) were given in 25 eyes (58%) in the mTRAB and 17 (77%) in the NPDS (p>0.05).

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was longer in NPDS (10.7+/-5.5 months) than in mTRAB (8.5+/-3.4 months) (p<0.05). Preoperatively, the two groups were comparable in respect of age, type of glaucoma, mean IOP, severity of VF defects and bleb failure risk factors (p>0.05). Peroperatively, mTRAB were uneventful in 86% vs 90% of NPDS. 1st month postop complications occurred in 60.4% in mTRAB and 77.2% in NPDS (P>0.05). Most of them were minor and transient in both surgeries. Postop early anterior chamber inflammation was mild to moderate in all cases. The incidence of wound leaks (21% in the mTRAB group and 18% in the NPDS group) and hyperfiltration related complications (14% and 13.6% respectively in the mTRAB and NPDS group) were comparable between the two procedures (p > 0.05). Intraoperative antimetabolite application was not associated with an increased rate of postoperative hyperfiltration related complications. Scarring of filtration blebs had concerned a lower percentage of mTRAB eyes (19%) than the NPDS (36%). The number for 5-FU injections was less - although not significantly - in the mTRAB than in the other group (18.6% in mTRAB versus 41% in NPDS (p=0.05). Late complications were not observed in the mTRAB group. Iris prolapse associated with increased IOP occurred in 3 of the 22 NPDS procedures (13.6%). Final mean visual acuity was unchanged compared with preop value and was similar between the 2 groups (p>0.05). Diffuse, mildly vascularized filtration blebs were observed in 84% in mTRAB and 64% in DS (p>0.05). Mean IOP significantly decreased from 24.8+/-8.3 mm Hg to 13.4+/-4,3 mm Hg in mTRAB and from 25.1+/-6.5 mm Hg to 14.7+/-4.6 mm Hg in DS (p> 0.05). It was not different between the 2 groups with and without AMETAB augmentation. 70% of the mTRAB achieved a final IOP < or = 15 mmHg vs 41% in NPDS (p<0.05). The mean number of postop medications was 0.49 in mTRAB and 0.96 in NPDS (p<0.05). Complete (target IOP reached without meds) and qualified (target IOP reached with and without meds) final success rates were 60% and 88% in mTRAB and 36.4% and 68.2% in NPDS (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Whether surgery was augmented with intraoperative antimetabolite or not, mTRAB revealed as a priority to be associated with comparable and even less complications than deep sclerectomy. Owing to the limitations of our study and until further confirmation, our results have suggested that mTRAB was associated with a slightly more important IOP reduction as well as higher success rates than NPDS.

Giant inclusion cyst of the cornea following filtering surgery

Various trans-conjunctival ophthalmic procedures are reported to cause inclusion cyst of conjunctiva, due to the accidental inclusion of viable conjunctival epithelium, under intact conjunctiva. We report a case of histopathologically confirmed inclusion cyst of the cornea following filtering surgery. There was no recurrence in 24 months of postoperative period.

Donor scleral patch for treating hypotony due to leaking and/or overfiltering blebs

OBJECTIVE

To report a modified technique of bleb revision with the use of a donor scleral patch in cases in which scleral melting did not allow effective suturing and closure of the aqueous leak. The suturing technique ensures tight adaptation of the scleral patch over the leaky region, and allows better-controlled aqueous flow with loose suturing of the posterior edge of the scleral patch.

METHODS

Records of patients who underwent bleb revision with donor scleral graft from 1997 to 2003 were reviewed retrospectively. Chart information including demographic and clinical data was recorded preoperatively and 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 6 months, and at final follow-up.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients underwent this surgical procedure for bleb revision. The mean follow-up time was 22.0 +/- 24.0 months (median = 8.0 months). The mean preoperative visual acuity was 20/50 and the mean intraocular pressure (IOP) was 2.9 +/- 2.3 mm Hg, which improved to 20/30 and 14.1 +/- 3.3 mm Hg respectively, on last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The scleral patch with 4-nylon sutures should be proposed in cases in which a macerated scleral bed is revealed during the revision. The loose suturing of the scleral patch at its posterior border was found to prevent intraocular pressure spikes.

Viscocanalostomy Versus Trabeculectomy in Patients with Bilateral High-tension Glaucoma

Results of trabeculectomy (TE) and viscocanalostomy (VCO) were compared in a prospective randomised study in two fellow eyes of 22 consecutive patients with bilateral symmetrical high-tension glaucoma. Rates of overall surgical success with intraocular pressures (IOP) < or = 18 mm Hg with or without medications were 91 for the TE, and 95 for the VCO group after a mean follow-up of 18 months. Complete success rates without medications were 64 and 59 for TE and VCO groups, respectively (p = 0.750). Both procedures significantly reduced IOP, however, IOP course following trabeculectomy was significantly lower (p = 0.026). Rates of complications were not found to be different between the two groups of eyes, except for an apparent--though not significant (p = 0.066)--increase in cataract progression with TE. Various types of conjunctival blebs were detected in all eyes with surgical success in both groups, however, diffuse, elevated or multi-cystic functional blebs appeared to be more predominant in eyes with TE, compared to the VCO group in which low-lying, localised blebs had a higher incidence (p = 0.015). Viscocanalostomy was found to be a safe and effective filtration technique in patients with uncomplicated high-tension glaucoma, though IOP decrease was more pronounced with trabeculectomy.

Update on treatment strategies for bleb-associated endophthalmitis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Visual preservation in the setting of bleb-associated endophthalmitis has been difficult with existing management strategies. In this article, established findings are compared and potential new treatments that may improve visual outcomes in bleb-associated endophthalmitis are evaluated.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent reports have contributed to the existing database of results from bleb-associated endophthalmitis. New systemic antibiotics and novel surgical techniques are also described.

SUMMARY

More options are now available to treat bleb-associated endophthalmitis. No one treatment paradigm is definitively superior in producing desired visual outcomes.

Filtering bleb function after clear cornea phacoemulsification: a prospective study

AIM

To evaluate the influence of clear cornea phacoemulsification on filtering bleb morphology, function, and intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucomatous eyes with previously successful filtering surgery.

METHODS

The clinical course of 30 patients (30 eyes) who underwent clear cornea phacoemulsification after successful filtering glaucoma surgery was prospectively evaluated. Mean IOP and filtering bleb morphology (standardised assessment criteria and score 0-12, 12 = optimum) were determined before surgery, and 3 days, 6 months, and 12 months after surgery. The control group consisted of 36 patients with glaucoma after clear cornea phacoemulsification without previous filtering surgery.

RESULTS

Mean IOP increased after phacoemulsification by about 2 mm Hg (preoperatively 14.28 (SD 3.71) mm Hg, 12 months postoperatively 16.33 (3.31) mm Hg, p = 0.006). 15 patients (50%) showed an IOP increase of >2 mm Hg, 11 patients (36.7%) had no IOP difference (within 2 mm Hg), and in four patients (13.3%) IOP decreased >2 mm Hg. Mean score of filtering bleb morphology 1 year after surgery decreased from 9.5 to 9.0 (p = 0.154). In three of 30 preoperatively IOP regulated eyes the postoperative IOP was 21 mm Hg. The control group showed an average IOP decrease of 2.01 mm Hg (p = 0.014) 12 months after cataract surgery.

CONCLUSION

An increase in IOP was found 1 year after phacoemulsification in half of the filtered glaucomatous eyes. IOP in glaucomatous eyes without previous filtering surgery decreased in the same period. Cataract extraction using clear cornea phacoemulsification may be associated with a partial loss of the previously functioning filter and with an impairment of filtering bleb morphology.

Topical application of autologous serum for the treatment of late-onset aqueous oozing or point-leak through filtering bleb

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy of topical autologous serum application to stop aqueous oozing or point-leak through filtering bleb after trabeculectomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 21 consecutive eyes with oozing and 21 eyes with a point-leak through a functional bleb after trabeculectomy with 5-fluorouracil or mitomycin C were enrolled in this randomized, case-control study. In eyes randomly assigned to the serum group, an antibiotic and the autologous serum, which was sterilely diluted to 20% with physiological saline, were topically applied four times a day for up to 12 weeks. In eyes assigned to the control group, the antibiotic alone was applied according to the same protocol. Intraocular pressure (IOP) and the presence of oozing or a point-leak were tested before and every 2 weeks after starting the treatments.

RESULTS

In the serum and control groups, oozing stopped in 62.5 and 0% of eyes, respectively (P=0.003), and point-leaks stopped in 27.3 and 18.2%, respectively (P>0.9). IOP significantly increased from 10.0+/-3.2 (mean+/-standard deviation) to 11.8+/-3.3 mmHg in eyes in which oozing stopped (P=0.066), and from 11.4+/-2.7 to 15.4+/-2.3 mmHg in eyes in which a point-leak stopped (P=0.042).

CONCLUSIONS

Autologous serum application was significantly effective to stop aqueous oozing but not point-leaks. Stopping oozing or point-leaks was significantly associated with an increase in IOP.

Outcome of cataract extraction and posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation following glaucoma filtration surgery

PURPOSE

To evaluate the outcome of cataract extraction (CE) after glaucoma filtering surgery (GFS).

METHODS

A total of 77 eyes (77 patients) who underwent CE with posterior chamber intraocular lens (PCIOL) implantation following GFS by a single surgeon were reviewed. Main outcome measures were preoperative and postoperative intraocular pressures (IOPs), visual acuities, medications, astigmatism, bleb survival, time of surgical failure, complications, and success rate.

RESULTS

Mean time interval between GFS and CE was 46.8+/-50.9 months (range, 2-348 months). The mean preoperative IOP was 13.9+/-4.7 mmHg (range 3-27 mmHg) and mean postoperative IOP at 3 weeks was 13.6+/-5.5 mmHg (range, 6-44 mmHg). The mean follow-up was 19.5+/-20.1 months (range, 1.4-73 months; median 10.6 months). Complete success was achieved in 59 eyes (76.7%). The cumulative probability of complete success was 91.3+/-3.7, 82.0+/-5.6 and 78.1+/-6.5% at the end of 6 months, 1, and 2 years, respectively. Visual acuity before CE was < or =20/50 in all eyes (100%). Visual acuity at last visit was > or =20/40 in 33 eyes (42.8 %), 20/50-20/80 in 30 eyes (39.0%), < or =20/100 in 14 eyes (18.2%). Risk factors identified for qualified success included age at CE>60 years, interval of < or =5 months between GFS and CE, use of preoperative glaucoma medications, and postoperative IOP >19 mmHg within 2 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

IOP and bleb function was maintained after CE with PCIOL implantation following successful GFS with good visual recovery.