Glaucoma management after vitreoretinal surgeries.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE OF REVIEW The surgical management of retinal disorders, including scleral buckling procedures, pars plana vitrectomy, and intravitreal injections of gas or silicone oil, can lead to short-term elevations in intraocular pressure (IOP) and ultimately long-term glaucomatous damage if not treated in a timely manner. Glaucoma in these cases is commonly refractory to conventional therapies. This review highlights the treatment strategies for glaucoma in eyes that have previously undergone vitreoretinal surgery. RECENT FINDINGS: Although medical therapy is often used initially to control a temporary rise in IOP, laser and surgical therapy may be required to treat sustained IOP elevation and subsequent glaucomatous damage in eyes that have undergone intraocular surgery for retinal disorders. Glaucoma drainage devices are an important treatment modality, particularly when there is high risk of failure with filtering surgery. SUMMARY: Previous vitreoretinal surgery is a known risk factor for the development of glaucoma. Treatment is usually initiated with medical therapy, however, surgical intervention is frequently required to control IOP and prevent progressive glaucomatous damage in patients with refractory glaucoma.