Two routes of administration of mitomycin C in a trabeculectomy

Background: The introduction of mitomycin C (MMC) as an adjunct to trabeculectomy was a major advance in the ability to improve the Intra ocular pressure lowering efficiency of the procedure. The time tested traditional way of administration of MMC is via a sponges soaked in it, duration and concentration varies depending on risk of failure. A subconjunctival injection of MMC instead of these sponges is recently being used as a promising alternative. Purpose: Here is the video demonstrating the 2 possible ways to prepare and apply MMC during a trabeculectomy surgery. Synopsis: Intraoperative injection of MMC in trabeculectomy has several advantages over conventional method ofsponge application. A large MMC treatment area produces more diffuse and elevated blebs. Large?area MMC application also seems to increase long?term success without increasing the complication rates in trabeculectomies. Direct and diffuse application of MMC by injection may promote less scarring and vascularization of the bleb. To achieve the same surface area of exposure with sponges, i.e.achieved with injection, the surgeon must use multiple sponges, all of which must be carefully collected thereafter. The injection method,therefore,eliminates the risk of retained sponges. Highlights: injection of MMC may be as safe and as effective as conventional sponge application of MMC with comparable estimated complete treatment success with relatively lower complication rates