ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: To study the medium-term success rate of a simple surgical technique for combined operation of cataract and glaucoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Of 50 patients with cataract and various types of glaucoma, 55 eyes underwent a combined operation for cataract and glaucoma and were followed up for at least 6.5 months. The phacoemulsification war performed through a scleral tunnel. After implantation of a foldable IOL an "inverse T" incision of the tunnel floor was performed to create a valve mechanism closure. RESULTS: In 45 eyes (83%) the intraocular pressure was controlled without medications during the follow-up time. In 10 cases (17%) a new glaucoma medication was introduced postoperatively. Following early postoperative complications were noticed: early intraocular hypertension (20.0%), wound leakage (20.0%), early intraocular hypotension (10.9%), hyphema (19.1%). CONCLUSIONS: No-stitch phacotrabeculectomy appears to be a safe and (medium-term) effective procedure for combined surgery of cataract and glaucoma.
