Incidencia de infecciones relacionadas a la bula de filtración en pacientes con trabeculectomía / Incidence of Filtration Bullae-related Infections in Trabeculectomy Patients

Objetivo: Determinar la incidencia de infecciones relacionadas a la bula de filtración en pacientes sometidos a trabeculectomía; así como su comportamiento clínico. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo longitudinal y retrospectivo. El universo estuvo comprendido por 1320 ojos con trabeculectomía y muestra conformada por 7 ojos con diagnóstico de infección relacionada a la bula de filtración operados en el Centro Oftalmológico de Villa Clara desde enero del 2012 hasta diciembre del 2021. Resultados: La incidencia global de infección en la bula de filtración fue de 0,53 por ciento. La incidencia de blebitis y de blebitis-endoftalmitis fue 0,15 por ciento y 0,38 por ciento, respectivamente. Los hombres fueron los más afectados y la edad media fue de 64,7 años. En todos los casos, la infección se presentó de forma tardía con una media de 4,1 años. El 57,1 por ciento tuvo una agudeza visual mejor corregida al inicio de la infección de movimiento de manos. Se reportó crecimiento bacteriano en un 57,1 por ciento, el estafilococo coagulasa negativo fue el germen más frecuente. El control de la infección se logró en 6 pacientes mientras 2/3 de ellos no tuvo mejoría de la agudeza visual mejor corregida a la resolución de la infección, todos con blebitis-endoftalmitis. Conclusiones: Las infecciones relacionadas a la bula de filtración son poco comunes. Se presentan con frecuencia años después de la cirugía filtrante y con mala agudeza visual. Los ojos con blebitis-endoftalmitis tienen una pobre recuperación visual a pesar del tratamiento(AU)

Purpose: To determine the incidence of filtration bullae-related infections in patients undergoing trabeculectomy; as well as their clinical behavior. Methods: A longitudinal and retrospective descriptive study was performed. The universe was comprised of 1320 eyes with trabeculectomy and the sample consisted of 7 eyes with a diagnosis of infection related to the filtration bulla operated at the Villa Clara Ophthalmologic Center between January 2012 and December 2021. Results: The overall incidence of infection in the filtration bullae was 0.53 percent. The incidence of blebitis and blebitis-endophthalmitis was 0.15 percent and 0.38 percent, respectively. Males were the most affected and the average age was 64.7 years. In all cases, the infection presented late with a average age of 4.1 years. Fifty-seven point one percent had best corrected visual acuity at the onset of hand motion infection. Bacterial growth was reported in 57.1 percent, coagulase negative staphylococcus was the most frequent germ. Infection control was achieved in 6 patients while 2/3 of them had no improvement of best corrected visual acuity at resolution of infection, all with blebitis-endophthalmitis. Conclusions: Infections related to filtration bullae are uncommon. They occur frequently years after filtering surgery and with poor visual acuity. Eyes with blebitis-endophthalmitis have poor visual recovery despite treatment(AU)

Changes in anterior segment parameters following insertion of ExPRESS mini glaucoma implant vs. trabeculectomy / Alterações nos parâmetros do segmento anterior após a inserção de implantes ExPRESS Mini para Glaucoma e após trabeculectomia

ABSTRACT Purpose: To compare changes in anterior segment parameters following ExPRESS Mini Glaucoma Shunt surgery vs. trabeculectomy using the Pentacam rotating Scheimpflug camera. Methods: In this prospective, comparative study, 27 patients with glaucoma treated at the Rabin Medical Center from 2009 to 2013 were enrolled in this prospective comparative study: 19 participants (19 eyes) underwent ExPRESS shunt implantation and 12 (13 eyes) underwent trabeculectomy. Changes in anterior chamber parameters at postoperative day 1 and postoperative month 3 were evaluated on Scheimpflug images. Results: Intraocular pressure decreased significantly from baseline in both groups. The decrease in both groups was similar at postoperative month 3 (p=0.82). ExPRESS surgery caused a transient increase in posterior corneal astigmatism (p=0.008) and a transient decrease in anterior chamber depth (p=0.016) and volume (p=0.006) on postoperative day 1. At postoperative month 3, these parameters were no longer statistically significant (p=0.65, p=0.51, and p=0.57 respectively). Trabeculectomy caused a transient increase in anterior and posterior corneal astigmatism on postoperative day 1 (p=0.003 and p=0.005, respectively), which were not evident at postoperative month 3 (p=1.0 and p=1.0, respectively). At postoperative month 3, both ExPRESS and trabeculectomy showed similar changes in anterior chamber parameters. Conclusions: Both ExPRESS mini glaucoma implant and trabeculectomy significantly decreased intraocular pressure and had transient effects on anterior segment parameters, with minor differences between the methods.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar as alterações nos parâmetros do segmento anterior após a cirurgia ExPRESS Mini Glaucoma Shunt vs. trabeculectomia usando a câmera Scheimpflug Pentacam rotativa. Métodos: Neste estudo comparativo prospectivo, 27 pacientes com glaucoma tratados no Centro Médico Rabin de 2009 a 2013 foram incluídos neste estudo comparativo prospectivo: 19 participantes (19 olhos) foram submetidos ao implante de derivação ExPRESS e 12 (13 olhos) foram submetidos à trabeculectomia. Alterações nos parâmetros da câmara anterior no dia 1 e em 3 meses de pós-operatório foram avaliadas pelas imagens de Scheimpflug. Resultados: A pressão intraocular diminuiu significativamente em relação aos valores iniciais nos dois grupos. A diminuição nos dois grupos foi semelhante no 3º mês pós-operatório (p=0,82). A cirurgia com ExPRESS causou um aumento temporário do astigmatismo posterior da córnea (p=0,008) e uma diminuição temporária da profundidade da câmara anterior (p=0,016) e do volume (p=0,006) no primeiro dia do pós-operatório. Ao final de três meses, esses parâmetros não foram mais estatisticamente significativos (p=0,065, p=0,51 e p=0,57, respectivamente). A trabeculectomia causou um aumento temporário do astigmatismo anterior e posterior da córnea no primeiro dia do pós-operatório (p=0,003 e p=0,005, respectivamente), mas isso não foi observado ao final de 3 meses (p=1,0 e p=1,0, respectivamente). Após 3 meses, tanto o EXPRESS quanto a trabeculectomia mostraram alterações semelhantes nos parâmetros da câmara anterior. Conclusões: O implante ExPRESS Mini para glaucoma e a trabeculectomia diminuíram significativamente a pressão intraocular e tiveram efeitos temporários nos parâmetros do segmento anterior, com pequenas diferenças entre os métodos.

Use of compressive suture in the prevention and management of perioperative complications of glaucoma surgery / Uso da sutura compressiva na prevenção e manejo das complicações peroperatórias da cirurgia antiglaucomatosa

Abstract Purpose: To describe the use of compressive suture (CS) in the prevention and management of adverse events associated with glaucoma surgery. Methods: This was a descriptive, retrospective study based on information retrieved from the records of patients submitted to glaucoma surgery between 1999 and 2012 at a regional main public hospital and at a private ophthalmology clinic belonging to one of the authors. Only cases with adverse events treated with CS were eligible. Results: Compressive suture was successfully used to improve the closure of the anterior and/or lateral edge of the conjunctival flap, to limit the downward extension of filtering blebs, to prevent excessive filtration from the scleral flap edge in cases of difficult closure with conventional suture, and in patients submitted to trabeculotomy-trabeculectomy. Conclusion: Safe, low-cost and easy to perform, compressive suture is a useful tool for the prevention and management of adverse events associated with glaucoma surgery.

Resumo Objetivo: Descrever o uso de sutura compressiva (SC) na prevenção e no manejo de complicações associadas à cirurgia antiglaucomatosa. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, retrospectivo, baseado em informações obtidas dos registros de pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de glaucoma entre 1999 e 2012 em um hospital público de referência regional e em uma clínica oftalmológica privada de um dos autores. Somente casos com eventos adversos tratados com SC foram selecionados. Resultados: A SC foi usada com sucesso para proporcionar melhor vedação nas bordas anterior e/ou lateral do retalho conjuntival, para limitar a extensão descendente das bolhas filtrantes, para evitar a filtração excessiva da borda do retalho escleral em casos de fechamento difícil pela sutura convencional, e em pacientes submetidos à trabeculotomia - trabeculectomia. Conclusão: Trata-se de um procedimento de fácil realização, seguro e de baixo custo, bastante útil na abordagem de intercorrências e complicações durante a cirurgia antiglaucomatosa.

Beneficios y riesgos de dispositivos de drenaje para tratamiento de glaucoma / Benefits and risks of glaucoma drainage devices for glaucoma treatment

En el tratamiento del glaucoma se suele iniciar con medicamentos. En segunda instancia, se recurre a cirugías o implante de dispositivos de drenaje. Los dispositivos de drenaje son usados para tratar glaucomas refractarios (no responden a tratamiento médico o cirugías), cuando la trabeculectomía o cualquier cirugía falla en el control de la presión intraocular. En la actualidad existe una gama de diseños que básicamente consisten en un tubo que drena humor acuoso desde la cámara anterior o posterior a un plato ubicado en la zona ecuatorial del ojo. Asimismo, los dispositivos de drenaje han tenido un avance significativo en los últimos años, y han variado el mecanismo de acción, los materiales, las dimensiones y las indicaciones de uso. Este trabajo proporciona información sobre el estado del arte del glaucoma, así como una revisión sistemática de la literatura sobre los dispositivos de drenaje, que describe su mecanismo de funcionamiento, las principales ventajas, la efectividad medida según la variación de la presión intraocular y las complicaciones más importantes halladas en cada estudio(AU)

The glaucoma treatment may be started with drugs, followed by surgeries or implantation of drainage devices. Drainage devices are used to treat refractory glaucomas (they do not respond to medical treatment or surgeries) when trabeculectomy fails to control intraocular pressure. There is a range of designs that basically consist of a tube that drains aqueous humor from the anterior or posterior chamber to a plate located in the equatorial area of the eye. Likewise, drainage devices have made significant progress in recent years, varying the mechanism of action, materials, dimensions and indications of use. This paper provides information on the state of the art of glaucoma, as well as a systematic literature review on the main drainage devices, describing its mechanism of operation, main advantages, effectiveness measured according to the variation of intraocular pressure and the most important complications found in each study(AU)

Retracción palpebral en ojo contralateral: poscirugía de ptosis palpebral / Eyelid retraction in contralateral eye: eyelid ptosis postsurgery

Se presenta a una paciente con antecedentes de tratamiento quirúrgico hace dos años para la elevación del párpado superior por ptosis palpebral derecha, quien exhibía retracción palpebral izquierda, aparentemente secundaria a la cirugía de ptosis, que dejaba expuesta ampolla de filtración por trabeculectomía previa, la cual le causaba molestias permanentes y la limitaba a realizar sus actividades diarias, cuadro clínico que se constató a las 24 horas en el posoperatorio. Se remitió a nuestro Centro y se discutió en colectivo. Se decidió realizar nueva cirugía de la ptosis derecha y tarsorrafia izquierda, con lo que se logró corrección de la ptosis derecha y recubrimiento de la bula de filtración del ojo izquierdo. Se mantuvo asintomática hasta los 3 meses del posoperatorio en que apareció con retracción palpebral izquierda recurrente. Se evaluó nuevamente y se decidió, por la edad de la paciente y los antecedentes de reintervenciones en ambos ojos así como el riesgo de complicación de cirugía filtrante, aplicar toxina botulínica en el párpado superior, 3 cc equivalente a 7 U. Con la aplicación de la toxina botulínica se logró la caída del párpado superior izquierdo, lo que permitió cubrir la bula de filtración, y desapareció la sintomatología. La toxina botulínica, a pesar de tener un efecto transitorio, constituye una buena opción en los pacientes con retracción palpebral en quienes otros tratamientos no han sido satisfactorios(AU)

A female patient with a history of surgical treatment for eyelid ptosis is reported. Two years before, she was operated on for correction of upper eyelid due to right eyelid ptosis, but now she presented left eyelid retraction, apparently secondary to ptosis surgery, which exposed a filtering bleb caused by previous traveculectomy. This condition caused permanent disturbances and restricted her daily activities, a clinical picture that was confirmed 24 hours after the surgery. She was sent to our center and the case was collectively discussed. It was decided to perform a new surgery to correct right ptosis and left tarsoraphy. The result was correction of right ptosis and coating of the filtering bleb in the left eye. She remained asymptomatic for three months in the postoperative period, but recurrent left eyelid retraction occurred. She was re-evaluated and it was decided, due to the patient´s age and the history of resurgeries in both eyes in addition to the risk of filtering surgery complications, to apply botulinum toxin in the upper eyelid at a dose of 3cc equal to 7 U. The administration of botulinum toxin allows fall of the left upper eyelid and covering of the filtering bleb, thus symptoms disappeared. Despite its transient effect, botulinum toxic is a good option for patients with eyelid retraction who had not achieved satisfactory results with other types of treatment(AU)

Algorithm approach for revision surgery following late-onset bleb complications after trabeculectomy: long-term follow-up / Algoritmo de abordagem para cirurgia de revisão nas complicações da bolha de início tardio após trabeculectomia: acompanhamento de longo prazo

ABSTRACT Purpose: The aim of this study was to introduce a reproducible algorithm for the surgical management of late-onset (>2 months) bleb complications after trabeculectomy with mitomycin C. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of eyes treated using a reproducible algorithm approach by a single surgeon for the surgical management of late-onset bleb complications from July 2006 to April 2014. Exclusion criteria were bleb revision with less than 3 months of follow-up or bleb revision combined with other glaucoma procedures at the time of surgery. Success was evaluated using the Kaplan-Meier survival method and defined as achieving all of the following criteria: primary surgery indication resolved, no additional surgery required for decreasing the intraocular pressure (IOP), and IOP of ≥6 mmHg and ≤18 mmHg. Results: Twenty-three eyes from 20 patients were evaluated. Indications for bleb revision were hypotonic maculopathy (47.8%), bleb leak (30.4%), and dysesthetic bleb (21.7%). The overall primary outcome success rate calculated using the Kaplan-Meier survival method was 65.2% at 48 months. When the IOP target was changed to ≤15 mmHg, the bleb survival rate was 47.8% at 48 months. At the most recent postoperative visit, 95.7% of eyes had an IOP of ≤15 mmHg and 56.5% were being treated with an average of one medication per eye. One eye (4.3%) required a second bleb revision for persistent hypotony and two eyes required glaucoma surgery to reduce IOP during follow-up. Conclusions: An algorithm approach for the surgical management of late-onset bleb complications with a success rate similar to those reported in specialized literature is proposed. Randomized trials are needed to confirm the best surgical approach.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever um algoritmo reprodutível para o tratamento cirúrgico das complicações da bolha de início tardio (>2 meses) após trabeculectomia com mitomicina-C. Métodos: Revisão retrospectiva de olhos que foram submetidos a um algoritmo reprodutível para o tratamento cirúrgico das complicações da bolha de início tardio por um único cirurgião, de julho de 2006 a abril de 2014. Os critérios de exclusão foram revisão de bolha com menos de 3 meses de seguimento ou revisão de bolha combinado com outro procedimento antiglaucomatoso no momento da cirurgia. O sucesso foi avaliado pelo método de sobrevida de Kaplan-Meier e definidos como ter atingido todos os seguintes critérios: indicação de cirurgia primária resolvido, nenhuma cirurgia adicional necessária para diminuir a pressão intraocular (IOP), IOP ≥6 mmHg e ≤18 mmHg. Resultados: Vinte e três olhos de 20 pacientes foram incluídos. Indicações para revisão bolha foram maculopatia hipotônica (47,8%), extravasamento da bolha (30,4%) e bolha elevada (21,7%). A taxa de sucesso do resultado primário global calculada pelo método de sobrevivência de Kaplan-Meier foi de 65,2% aos 48 meses. Quando a IOP foi diminuída para ≤15mmHg, a taxa de sobrevivência bolha foi de 47,8% em 48 meses. Na visita pós-operatória mais recente, 95,7% dos olhos apresentavam PIO ≤15mmHg e 56,5% estavam sob tratamento com uma média de um medicamento por olho. Um olho (4,3%) necessitou de uma segunda revisão da bolha para hipotonia persistente e dois olhos necessitaram cirurgia de antiglaucomatosa para reduzir a IOP durante o seguimento. Conclusões: Um algoritmo de abordagem para o tratamento cirúrgico das complicações tardias da bolha com uma taxa de sucesso semelhante aos relatados na literatura especializada é proposto. Ensaios clínicos randomizados são necessários para confirmar a melhor abordagem cirúrgica.

Síndrome iridocorneoendotelial: síndrome de Cogan Reese / Iridocorneal endothelial syndrome: Cogan Reese syndrome

El síndrome iridocorneoendotelial comprende entidades que presentan afectación del endotelio corneal, el iris y el ángulo de la cámara anterior, razón por la que se desarrolla el glaucoma. Es generalmente unilateral, progresivo y afecta con mayor frecuencia a los adultos del sexo femenino. Se describen tres variantes con sus características peculiares: atrofia esencial del iris, síndrome de Chandler y el síndrome de Cogan Reese, que es una entidad rara. Se presenta una mujer de 53 años con diagnóstico de síndrome de Cogan Reese de 6 años de evolución y glaucoma de difícil control, por lo que recibió tratamiento quirúrgico(AU)

The iridocorneal endothelial syndrome includes conditions that affect the corneal endothelium, the iris and the anterior chamber angle. It is unilateral, progressive and mainly affects adult females. Three variants are described with their peculiar characteristics: essential atrophy of iris, Chandler´s syndrome and Cogan Reese syndrome that is a rare disease. Here is the case of a 53 year-old woman with Cogan Reese syndrome for six years and uncontrolled glaucoma and finally, she was surgically treated(AU)

Revisión con aguja asociada a mitomicina C en ampollas de filtración encapsuladas / Mitomycin C-associated needle revision in encapsulated filtering blebs

Objetivo: determinar la efectividad a mediano plazo de la revisión con aguja asociada a mitomicina C en la ampolla de filtración encapsulada postrabeculectomía. Métodos: estudio observacional descriptivo, prospectivo de serie de casos (30 ojos, 30 pacientes), con antecedentes de quiste de Tenon a corto plazo postrabeculectomía (1 mes-1 año). Se realizó revisión con aguja asociada a inyección subconjuntival MMC 0,01 % hasta completar 3 dosis en días alternos. Se evaluaron la presión intraocular y el uso de colirios hipotensores preoperatorio y posoperatorio a la semana, 1 mes, 3 meses, 1 año y 2 años. Se definió éxito si la presión intraocular era menor de 21 mmHg sin colirio hipotensor (éxito total) y con colirios hipotensores (éxito parcial). Se registraron las complicaciones quirúrgicas. Resultados: hubo descenso significativo de la presión intraocular media preoperatoria de 27,06 ± 5,2 mmHg a 13,10 ± 3,65 mmHg, 14,83 ± 3,68 mmHg y 16,70 ± 3,38 mmHg a la semana, 1 y 3 meses posoperatorios respectivamente, y se mantuvo estable hasta 2 años (16,70 ± 2,18 mmHg); p< 0,001 para cada comparación preoperatorio vs. posoperatorio), lo que representó una reducción de la presión intraocular del 51,8 por ciento a la semana; 44,4 por ciento al mes y 37 por ciento hasta los 2 años. La media del número de colirios hipotensores se redujo significativamente de 2,0 ± 0,0 (preoperatorio) a 0,4 ± 0,0 (2 años posoperatorios), p< 0,001. El éxito fue total en el 70 por ciento de los casos y parcial en el 30 por ciento, tras 2 años posoperatorios. Las complicaciones fueron: hemorragia subconjuntival (100 por ciento de casos), atalamia (40 por ciento) y Seidel positivo (26,7 por ciento). Conclusiones: la revisión con aguja asociada a mitomicina C subconjuntival como tratamiento de la ampolla encapsulada, logra reducción del 37 por ciento de la presión intraocular durante los dos primeros años posoperatorios con un mínimo de complicaciones(AU)

Objective: to determine the medium-term effectiveness of subconjuntival mitomicyn-C associated to needle revision on encapsulated filtering bleb after trabeculectomy. Methods: prospective, descriptive and observational case series study (30 eyes, 30 patients) with a history of Tenon cyst after short term trabeculectomy (1month-1year). These patients underwent needle revision associated to subconjuntival 0,01 percent mitomycin injection to completing three doses in every other day. The intraocular pressure and the use of hypotensive drops preoperatively and postoperatively were evaluated seven days, one month, three months, one year and two years after the procedure. The success of intervention was defined as total when the intraocular pressure was less than 21mmHg without hypotensive drops and partial with hypotensive drops. Surgical complications were recorded. Results: the mean preoperative intraocular pressure decreased significantly from 27,06 ± 5,2 mmHg to 13,10 ± 3,3 mmHg, 14,83 ± 3,68 mmHg and 16,70 ± 3,38 mmHg one week, one month and three months after surgery and remained stable (16,70 ± 2,18 mmHg) for 2 years, p< 0,001 for each preoperative and postoperative comparison; this represented an intraocular pressure reduction of 51,8 percent; 44,4 percent and 37 percent after one week, one month, and up to 2 years, respectively. The mean number of hypotensive drops lowered significantly from 2,0 ± 0,0 (preoperative) to 0,4 ± 0,0 (two years after surgery), being p< 0,001. Total success was attained in 70 percent of cases and partial in 30 percent after 2 years. Surgical complications were subconjuntival haemorrhage (in all patients), atalamy (40 percent) and positive Seidel index (26,7 percent). Conclusion: subconjuntival mitomicyn-C injection-associated needle revision for encapsulated bleb reduces intraocular pressure by 37 percent during the first 2 years after the procedure with minimal complications(AU)

Enxerto de retalho escleral de doador como tratamento definitivo de maculopatia hipotônica pós trabeculectomia / Scleral patch as a definitive treatment for hypotonic maculopathy after trabeculectomy

RESUMO Paciente do sexo feminino, portadora de glaucoma juvenil sem controle clínico adequado, foi submetida à trabeculectomia com mitomicina C, após a qual, desenvolveu hipotensão ocular refratária às medidas conservadoras, evoluindo com um quadro de maculopatia hipotônica. Foi realizado um implante de enxerto de retalho escleral de doador sobre a fístula, com resolução do quadro e ganho de acuidade visual. A enxertia de retalho escleral de doador mostrou-se uma terapia adequada para correção da hipotensão ocular por bolha hiperfiltrante pós trabeculectomia. O cirurgião deve considerar o emprego dessa técnica ao programar a revisão destes casos.

ABSTRACT A female patient with juvenile glaucoma without clinical control underwent a trabeculectomy with mitomycin C, and developed eye hypotension which did not respond to conservative treatment, with subsequent hypotonic maculopathy. The patient was treated using a scleral patch provided by a donor above the fistula, which improved intraocular pressure and visual acuity. The use of the scleral patch above the fistula seems an adequate therapy to treat ocular hypotension due to the over-filtering trabeculectomy bubble. The surgeon should consider this technique when planning surgical solutions for such cases.

Amniotic Membrane Transplantation for Repair of a Large Intraoperative Conjunctival Defect during Trabeculectomy

No abstract available.

Surgical Results of Trabeculectomy and Ahmed Valve Implantation Following a Previous Failed Trabeculectomy in Primary Congenital Glaucoma Patients

PURPOSE: To compare the surgical results of trabeculectomy and Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation after a previous failed trabeculectomy. METHODS: A retrospective comparative case series review was performed on 31 eye surgeries in 20 patients with primary congenital glaucoma who underwent trabeculectomy or Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation after a previous failed trabeculectomy with mitomycin C. RESULTS: The preoperative mean intraocular pressure was 25.5 mmHg in the trabeculectomy group and 26.9 mmHg in the Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation group (p = 0.73). The 48-month postoperative mean intraocular pressure was 19.6 mmHg in the trabeculectomy group and 20.2 mmHg in the Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation group (p = 0.95). The 12-month trabeculectomy success rate was 69%, compared with 64% for Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation, and the 48-month success rates were 42% and 36% for trabeculectomy and valve implantation, respectively. The success rates following the entire follow-up period were not significantly different between the two groups (p > 0.05 by log rank test). Postoperative complications occurred in 25% of the trabeculectomy-operated eyes and 9% of the Ahmed-implanted eyes (p = 0.38). CONCLUSIONS: There was no significant difference in surgical outcome between the trabeculectomy and Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation groups, neither of which had favorable results. However, the trabeculectomy group demonstrated a higher prevalence of adverse complications such as post-operative endophthalmitis.

Early transconjunctival needling revision with 5-fluorouracil versus medical treatment in encapsulated blebs: a 12-month prospective study

OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy of transconjunctival needling revision with 5-fluorouracil versus medical treatment in glaucomatous eyes with uncontrolled intraocular pressure due to encapsulated bleb after trabeculectomy. METHODS: Prospective, randomized, interventional study. A total of 40 eyes in 39 patients with elevated intraocular pressure and encapsulated blebs diagnosed at a maximum five months after primary trabeculectomy with mitomycin C were included. The eyes were randomized to either transconjunctival needling revision with 5- fluorouracil or medical treatment (hypotensive eyedrops). A maximum of two transconjunctival needling revisions per patient was allowed in the needling arm. All patients underwent follow-up for 12 months. Successful treatment was defined as an intraocular pressure ≤ 18 mmHg and a 20% reduction from baseline at the final follow-up. Clinicaltrial.gov: NCT01887223. RESULTS: Mean intraocular pressure at the final 12-month follow-up was lower in the transconjunctival needling revision group compared to the medical treatment group. Similar numbers of eyes reached the criteria for treatment success in both the transconjunctival needling revision group and the medical treatment group. CONCLUSIONS: Despite similar success rates in eyes randomized to transconjunctival needling revision with 5-fluorouracil compared to eyes receiving medical treatment, there was a significantly lower mean intraocular pressure at 12 months after transconjunctival needling revision. .

Safe Excision of a Large Overhanging Cystic Bleb Following Autologous Blood Injection and Compression Suture

Here, we report a large, overhanging cystic bleb that compromised vision and induced a foreign body sensation in a patient who underwent a trabeculectomy surgery with anti-metabolite therapy 4 years prior. Ultrasound biomicroscopy revealed multiple loculations with thin septa inside the bleb and a high risk of damage to the bleb was anticipated with a straight forward surgical excision. We injected autologous blood and placed a compression suture 6 weeks prior to surgical excision of the overhanging portion of the bleb. The operation was successful in preserving excellent bleb function, restoring visual acuity, and alleviating symptoms in our patient with up to 9 months of follow-up.

Safe Excision of a Large Overhanging Cystic Bleb Following Autologous Blood Injection and Compression Suture

Here, we report a large, overhanging cystic bleb that compromised vision and induced a foreign body sensation in a patient who underwent a trabeculectomy surgery with anti-metabolite therapy 4 years prior. Ultrasound biomicroscopy revealed multiple loculations with thin septa inside the bleb and a high risk of damage to the bleb was anticipated with a straight forward surgical excision. We injected autologous blood and placed a compression suture 6 weeks prior to surgical excision of the overhanging portion of the bleb. The operation was successful in preserving excellent bleb function, restoring visual acuity, and alleviating symptoms in our patient with up to 9 months of follow-up.

Late recurrent iris synechia following laser goniopuncture for deep sclerectomy enhancement: case report / Sinéquia iriana tardia após goniopunctura a laser para esclerectomia profunda não penetrante: relato de caso

We report a case of recurrent iris synechiae one year after Nd:YAG laser goniopuncture for deep sclerectomy enhancement in the only functional eye of a patient with end-stage glaucoma. The possible pathophysiology of this uncommon complication and laser treatment aspects are discussed.

A ocorrência de sinéquias irianas após goniopunctura a laser com finalidade de aumentar a filtração após esclerectomia não penetrante é evento raro e que pode levar à crise glaucomatosa aguda e suas consequências. Relatamos a ocorrência deste evento em olho único de paciente portadora de glaucoma em estágio final, um ano após a realização de goniopunctura. Os possíveis mecanismos fisiopatológicos desta complicação incomum, assim como aspectos do tratamento a laser para reverter o quadro são discutidos.

Etiology and epidemiological analysis of glaucoma-filtering bleb infections in a tertiary eye care hospital in south India.

Purpose: To evaluate the microbial etiology and associated risk factors among patients with blebitis following trabeculectomy. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of all culture-proven blebitis was performed in patients who underwent trabeculectomy between January 2004 and December 2008. A standardized form was filled out for each patient, documenting sociodemographic features and information pertaining to risk factors. Swabbing of the infected bleb surface was performed for all suspected cases and further subjected to microbiological analysis. Results: A total of 23 patients with culture-proven blebitis were treated during the study period, with a mean age of 59.2 years (59.2 ± SD: 12.8; range, 30-81 years). Duration of onset was early (≤36 months) in six (26%) cases and late (> 36 months) in 17 (74%) cases with a range between 15 and 144 months (mean, 82.91 months; SD: 41.89). All 23 blebs were located superiorly and of which, 21 (91%) were microcystic avascular, 1 (4%) diffuse avascular, and 1 (4%) vascular flattened. The predominant risk factor identified was bleb leak (35%; 8 of 23) followed by thin bleb (22%; 5 of 23) and blepharitis (17%; 4 of 23). Bleb leaks (100%) were recorded only in patients with late onset (≥ 9 years) of infection (P< 0.001), while the incidence of ocular surface disease (100%) occurred early (≤3 years) (P< 0.001). Use of topical steroids was associated frequently with cases of thin blebs (80%; 4 of 5) (P< 0.001), while topical antibiotics showed bleb leaks (88%; 7 of 8) (P< 0.001). Coagulase-positive staphylococci were frequently recovered from blebitis with thin blebs (71%; 5 of 7) (P = 0.001), Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) with bleb leak (100%; 8 of 8) (P< 0.001), Corynebacterium with blepharitis (100%; 3 of 3) (P = 0.001), and Streptococci with releasable sutures (75%; 3 of 4) (P = 0.001). Conclusion Bleb leak is the principal risk factor responsible for late-onset blebitis, while early-onset blebitis could be ascribed to ocular surface diseases. Streptococci were mainly responsible for early onset of infection, while the late onset was due to CoNS.

Diagnosis and treatment of hyperfiltering blebs / Diagnóstico e tratamento de bolsas fistulantes hiperfuncionantes

PURPOSE: To report on a new treatment for hyperfiltering bleb as well as its diagnostic criteria. METHODS: Twenty eyes with hypotony due to hyperfiltering bleb caused by trabeculectomy with mitomicin C were treated with bleb resection. The diagnosis of hyperfiltering bleb followed these criteria: intraocular pressure lower than six mmHg (Goldmann tonometer); no inflammation in the anterior segment; presence of an elevated and/or diffuse and avascular bleb with or without microcysts; negative Seidel test; no ciliochoroidal detachment found with ultrasound biomicroscopy. We registered the following data pre and post operatively: type of glaucoma, visual acuity, bleb aspect and fundoscopic findings. A successful resolution of hypotony was achieved when intraocular pressure ranged from six to 14 mmHg with or without antiglaucomatous medication. RESULTS: At a minimum follow-up of 19 months ocular hypotony had been reversed in all eyes. At the last exam, intraocular pressure varied from eight to 14 mmHg in 18 (90 percent) eyes; 12 (66.7 percent) eyes had no medication and six (33.3 percent) used antiglaucomatous medication. In two (10 percent) eyes, another trabeculectomy was necessary to control intraocular pressure. Hypotonic maculopathy developed preoperatively in seven eyes and was reversed after bleb resection. Visual acuity improved in 15 (75 percent) eyes but did not change in five (25 percent). CONCLUSION: Bleb resection is a safe and adequate treatment for ocular hypotony due to hyperfiltering bleb. It also restores vision in a considerable number of patients. The diagnosis of hyperfiltering bleb must follow rigorous criteria.

OBJETIVO: Relatar os resultados de uma nova técnica para o tratamento de bolsa hiperfuncionante, assim como seus critérios diagnósticos. MÉTODOS: Vinte olhos (20 pacientes) com hipotonia ocular causada por bolsa hiperfuncionante após trabeculectomia com mitomicina C foram tratados com ressecção da bolsa. O diagnóstico de bolsa hiperfuncionante obedeceu aos seguintes critérios: pressão intraocular inferior a seis mmHg (tonometria de Goldmann); ausência de inflamação do segmento anterior ocular; presença de bolsa fistulante elevada e/ou difusa e avascular com ou sem microcistos; teste de Seidel negativo; ausência de descolamento ciliocoroidiano ao exame de UBM. Foram registrados no pré e pós-operatório: o tipo de glaucoma, a acuidade visual, o aspecto da bolsa e os achados oftalmoscópicos. A resolução da hipotonia foi alcançada quando a pressão intraocular variou de seis a 14 mmHg sem ou sob medicação tópica antiglaucomatosa. RESULTADOS: No seguimento mínimo de 19 meses, a hipotonia ocular foi revertida nos 20 olhos. No último exame, a pressão intraocular variou de oito a 14 mmHg em 18 (90 por cento) olhos; 12 (66,7 por cento) olhos sem medicação e seis (33,3 por cento) olhos sob medicação tópica. Em dois (20 por cento) olhos foi necessário nova trabeculetomia para controle da pressão intraocular. Maculopatia hipotônica foi diagnosticada no pré-operatório em sete olhos e foi revertida em todos eles após a ressecção da bolsa. A acuidade visual melhorou em 15 (75 por cento) olhos e não se alterou em cinco (25 por cento). CONCLUSÃO: A ressecção da bolsa é eficaz no tratamento da hipotonia ocular consequente a sua hiperfunção. Esse procedimento também recupera a visão num considerável número de pacientes. O diagnóstico de bolsa hiperfuncionante deve obedecer a critérios rigorosos.

Meta-analysis of beta radiation augmentation for trabeculectomy - results in distinct ethnic groups / Meta-análise da trabeculectomia potencializada pela radiação beta - resultados em grupos étnicos distintos

PURPOSE: To conduct a systematic review with meta-analysis on the efficacy of trabeculectomy (TREC) followed by beta irradiation (BRT/TREC) compared to TREC alone for glaucoma in terms of intraocular pressure (IOP) control and adverse effects of treatment in different ethnic groups. METHODS: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT) was performed comparing adjunct BRT treatment for glaucoma with standard TREC after 12 months. The MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, and Cochrane Library databases, Trial registers, bibliographic databases and recent studies of relevant journals were searched. Two reviewers independently reviewed relevant reports and the references from these reports were searched for additional trials, using guidelines set by QUOROM statement criteria. RESULTS: Of a total of 1,350 citations, eight studies (five cohorts, three randomized) were identified and only 3 RCT were included in this meta-analysis. Higher IOP reductions were verified in the BRT arm compared to the control arm (mean difference=1.68 mmHg, 95 percent CI= 0.61-2.68, P=0.002). Uncontrolled postoperative IOP (>21 mmHg) was less frequent when BRT was used (BRT/ TREC arm) compared to the control arm (38/218=17.4 percent versus 9/239=3.8 percent; OR=6.7; 95 percent CI 3.2-14.3, P<0.0001). Although better IOP control was observed in all patients treated with adjuvant BRT, only Black patients displayed a significant difference (P=0.005). There were no significant differences between the BRT and control arms regarding loss of visual acuity, postoperative complications and necessity of cataract surgery. CONCLUSION: Adjunct BRT increases the success rate of TREC, with better results in non Caucasian patients, and does not influence the occurrence of postoperative complications.

OBJETIVO: Realizar uma revisão sistemática com meta-análise sobre a eficácia da trabeculectomia (TREC), seguida ou não por irradiação beta (BRT/TREC) para o tratamento do glaucoma, em termos de controle da pressão intraocular (PIO) e de efeitos adversos, em diferentes grupos étnicos. MÉTODOS: Uma meta-análise de ensaios clínicos randomizados (RCT) foi realizada, comparando os resultados de 12 meses da TREC com o uso adjuvante de BRT, com aqueles da TREC padrão. Foram fontes de pesquisa as bases de dados MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, Cochrane, além de sítios de registro de ensaios clínicos, estudos recentes em revistas da área e outras bases de dados bibliográficos. Dois revisores avaliaram independentemente publicações relevantes e as referências desses trabalhos foram pesquisadas para procura de ensaios adicionais, de acordo com as diretrizes estabelecidas pelos critérios do QUOROM. RESULTADOS: De um total de 1.350 citações, oito estudos (cinco coortes e três aleatorizados) foram identificados e apenas 3 RCT foram incluídos nesta meta-análise. Maiores reduções na PIO foram verificadas no braço de estudo da BRT, comparado com o braço controle (diferença média=1,68 mmHg, 95 por cento CI= 0,61-2,68, P=0,002). A frequência de PIO pós-operatória não controlada (>21 mmHg) foi menor quando utilizada a BRT (BRT/TREC) em relação ao grupo controle (38/218 =17,4 por cento versus 9/239 =3,8 por cento; OR= 6,7 IC 95 por cento 3,2 14,3, P<0,0001). Apesar do melhor controle da PIO ter sido observada em todos os pacientes do braço BRT, apenas os pacientes negros apresentaram uma diferença significativa (P=0,005). Não houve diferenças significativas entre os braços BRT e controle, em termos de perda da acuidade visual, complicações pós-operatórias e necessidade de cirurgia de catarata. CONCLUSÃO: O uso de BRT adjuvante aumenta a taxa de sucesso da TREC, com melhores resultados em pacientes não-caucasianos, não influenciando a ocorrência de complicações pós-operatórias.

Management of complications in glaucoma surgery.

Surgical option for glaucoma is considered when other modalities are not working out to keep the intraocular pressure under control. Since the surgical procedures for glaucoma disrupt the integrity of the globe, they are known to produce various complications. Some of those complications can be vision-threatening. To minimize the morbidity, it is very important that one should know how to prevent them, recognize them and treat them. The objective of this article is to provide insight into some of those complications that will help the ophthalmologists in treating glaucoma patients in their clinical practice.

Combined viscocanalostomy-trabeculectomy for management of advanced Glaucoma- a comparative study of the contralateral eye: a pilot study

To compare combined viscocanalostomy-trabeculectomy [VISCO-TRAB] to trabeculectomy [TRAB] for the management of advanced glaucoma. The study cohort comprised of 18 subjects with bilateral advanced glaucoma who underwent VISCO-TRAB surgery [VISCO-TRAB group] in the right eye and TRAB [TRAB group] in the left eye. VISCO-TRAB constituted lamellar scleral flap, deep scleral flap dissection with deroofing of Schlemm's canal [SC], viscodilation of SC, penetrating trabeculectomy, peripheral iridectomy, and tight flap closure. All eyes received subconjunctival mitomycin. Success criteria included intraocular pressure [IOP] < 14 mmHg or > 30% lowering of IOP with no devastating complications. A P value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Mean IOP was significantly lower after VISCO-TRAB compared to TRAB at 1 week and 3 months postoperatively [P<0.05]. No eyes lost more than two lines of Snellen acuity. There were more hypotony-related complications after TRAB than VISCO-TRAB surgery. Target IOP was achieved in 83.3% in the VISCO-TRAB group compared to 55.6% in the TRAB group. Combined VISCO-TRAB is effective in reducing IOP to the target level for advanced glaucoma with lower postoperative complications