Relaesable scleral flap suture in trabeculectomy: preliminary results of a new technique

ABSTRACT

To demonstrate a technique for a releasable scleral flap suture placed to reduce post-trabeculectomy complications. Under a fornix based conjunctival flap, a rectangular partial thickness scieral flap is fashioned. A scierostomy is made followed by a peripheral iridectomy and the scieral flap is secured. A trapezoid suture is then placed from the sciera across the scleral flap to exit on the corneal surface and then tightend under the conjunctival flap which is then secured. During the follow-up, this suture can be safely removed on the slit lamp if the lOP is high. If the lOP is ideal, the suture can be left in place. Immediate postoperative complications as flat anterior chamber and choroidal detachment didn't occur. The suture was removed only if the filtration was not sufficient and the lOP was high. The releasable scieral flap suture was effective in preventing post trabeculectomy complications. In addition, it can be easily removed on the slit lamp without the need to fish under the conjunctiva, or to search for equipments as lasers