Needle Revision on Failed Filtering Blebs Using Mitomycin C

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To determine the success rate and complications of Mitomycin C (MMC) augmented needle revision on failed filtering blebs. METHODS: We retrospectively investigated the records of 30 patients (32 eyes) who had undergone needle revision with MMC on failed filtering blebs. A mixture of 0.02 ml of MMC (0.4 mg/ml) and 0.02 ml of 2% lidocaine (20 mg/ml) was injected subconjunctivally. 5 minutes later, needle revision was done with bented 30 gauge needle. RESULTS: The mean Intraocular pressure(IOP) decreased from 28.1+/-9.4 mm Hg before surgery to 14.7+/-6.2 mmHg at the last follow-up. The mean follow-up period after the last needle revision was 23.5+/-19.4 months. In 27 eyes (84.4%), the last IOP was less than or equal to 18 mmHg. Serious complications were not found. CONCLUSIONS: MMC augmented needle revision appears to be an effective way to revive failed filtration blebs. The incidence of complications compares favorably to that of other glaucoma related surgery.