Usefulness of Intraocular Pressure With the Ocular Response Analyzer to Predict Postoperative Hypotony Complications in Glaucoma.

Purpose: To investigate the usefulness of intraocular pressure (IOP) using the ocular response analyzer to predict the occurrence of hypotony complications following trabeculectomy or bleb needling revision with mitomycin C. Methods: This study included 66 eyes of 66 patients who underwent trabeculectomy (58 eyes of 58 patients) or bleb needling (8 eyes of 8 patients) with mitomycin C. A significant predictor of hypotony complications was identified from (1) operation (trabeculectomy or bleb needling), (2) age, (3) sex, (4) disease type (primary open-angle glaucoma, primary angle closure glaucoma, or exfoliation glaucoma), (5) lens status (phakia or pseudophakia), (6) preoperative Goldmann applanation tonometry IOP, (7) preoperative central corneal thickness, (8) preoperative axial length, (9) preoperative anterior chamber depth, (10) preoperative corneal hysteresis, (11) preoperative corneal resistance factor, (12) preoperative corneal compensated IOP (IOPcc), and (13) minimum IOP (IOP value when hypotony complications occurred, otherwise the minimum IOP during 3 months from trabeculectomy or bleb needling) using multivariate logistic regression. Results: The probability of the occurrence of hypotony complications tended to increase by applying higher cutoff values to preoperative Goldmann applanation tonometry IOP and IOPcc, but not lower cutoff values to the minimum IOP. Multivariate logistic regression suggested that higher preoperative IOPcc and pseudophakia were significant predictors of the occurrence of hypotony complications (P = 0.0062 and 0.0069, respectively). Conclusions: Higher preoperative IOPcc and pseudophakia were significant predictors of the occurrence of hypotony complications. Translational Relevance: It is useful to measure IOP using the ocular response analyzer before trabeculectomy.

Comparative outcomes of selective laser trabeculoplasty delivered by optometrists compared with ophthalmologists: a UK-based multicentre observational study.

BACKGROUND: Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), a National Institute for Care and Health Excellence recommended first-line treatment for open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension, is increasingly delivered by optometrists. This retrospective multicentre observational study evaluates real-world outcomes of SLT comparing optometrist-treated to ophthalmologist-treated eyes. METHODS: Adults aged ≥40 years receiving first SLT treatment at three UK hospital eye units (Aintree, Manchester, Macclesfield) between 1 August 2018 and 1 August 2021 were analysed using anonymised local audit data. Outcomes included intraocular pressure (IOP), visual acuity (VA), drop burden, complications including post-SLT IOP spikes, and composite treatment failures including repeat laser or glaucoma surgery, evaluated at 6-monthly intervals up to 24 months. Groups were compared with parametric and non-parametric tests, accounting for intereye correlation, and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis using composite treatment failure endpoints was conducted. RESULTS: 207 eyes (131 patients) were analysed, 84 (56 patients) optometrist-treated eyes compared with 123 ophthalmologist-treated eyes (75 patients). No statistically significant differences (p>0.05) were found in change in VA, IOP or glaucoma drops from pre-SLT baseline between optometrist and ophthalmologist-treated eyes, at all time points. More cataracts were detected in optometrist-treated eyes, however, this did not affect differences in VA or cataract surgery frequency. More optometrist-treated eyes underwent glaucoma surgery, however, ophthalmologist-treated eyes had higher drop burden and chance of composite treatment failure up to month 18. CONCLUSION: Outcomes of SLT treatment by optometrists and ophthalmologists are comparable up to 24 months post-treatment. Ophthalmologist-treated eyes may have had more aggressive eye-drop treatment, preventing the need for surgery.

A case of masquerade syndrome caused by metastatic iris tumor diagnosed by a high CEA level in the aqueous humor and iris biopsy.

BACKGROUND: With the advent of targeted therapies, the survival prognosis for metastatic tumors has extended, and it has become necessary to diagnose and consider treatment that takes into account Quality of Life for metastatic tumors of the eye. The reports of checking tumor marker in the aqueous humor for diagnosis of metastatic intraocular tumors are few. Here, we report a case of masquerade syndrome with secondary glaucoma in which a high carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level in the aqueous humor could assist diagnosis, and continuing targeted therapy and trabeculectomy were effective. CASE PRESENTATION: A 73-year-old man was referred to us for iritis and high intraocular pressure (IOP) with severe eye pain in the left eye. He had Stage IVB lung adenocarcinoma treated with a molecularly targeted drug, Osimertinib. His best corrected visual acuity was 0.15, and IOP was 52 mmHg in the left eye. Anterior chamber cells (+), numerous small nodules in the iris, and small masses in the inferior angle were observed. In the aqueous humor, the CEA level was higher than in the blood. Napsin A and Thyroid Transcription Factor-1 (TTF-1) positive cells showed in the resected tissue at iridectomy performed during trabeculectomy. The pathological diagnosis of metastatic iris tumor of the lung adenocarcinoma was made, and we injected bevacizumab intravitreally once and continued Osimertinib. His IOP lowered to 8-10 mmHg, and the iris masses disappeared. He lost vision by metastasis to the left optic nerve after termination of Osimertinib one and a half years later. The metastasis shrank after restarting the drug. He passed away from an exacerbation of his primary lung cancer two years and nine months after the first visit. Although he lost vision in his left eye, the metastatic tumor in his left eye and optic nerve had disappeared, and his quality of life was maintained without any pain in his eye. CONCLUSIONS: Checking tumor markers in the aqueous humor can aid in diagnosis, and aggressive treatment of metastatic iris tumors must help maintain patients' Quality of Life.

[Fully recognizing selective laser trabeculoplasty].

Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), as one of the main methods for the treatment of open-angle glaucoma, has again aroused wide concern in recent years. Although SLT has a clear effect on reducing intraocular pressure, its role needs to be fully recognized. In order to provide guidance for the clinical SLT practice, this article summarizes and discusses the current status of SLT treatment for glaucoma, its therapeutic effects on primary open-angle glaucoma, ocular hypertension, and other types of glaucoma, surgical details, and application prospects.

Efficacy and safety of intraoperative injection of mitomycin C during trabeculectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Trabeculectomy, a primary surgical treatment for glaucoma, often employs mitomycin C (MMC) to reduce scar formation and improve surgical outcomes. However, the optimal application method of MMC, whether by injection or sponge, remains a subject of debate. This meta-analysis aims to compare injectable and sponge-based MMC application in terms of efficacy and safety, focusing on various clinical outcomes in glaucoma patients. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search of Scopus, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Ovid, Chinese biomedical literature database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Cochrane Library was done for eligible studies that report data of glaucoma patients who were administered MMC by injection or sponge application during trabeculectomy. Outcomes of interest included intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction, bleb appearance grading (height, extent, vascularity), use of anti-glaucoma medications, and rates of complete success, qualified success, and failure. Data were reported as weighted mean differences (WMD) or odds ratios (OR) with confidence intervals (CI). The random-effects inverse-variance model with DerSimonian-Laird estimate of tau2 was employed, with continuity correction applied where necessary. RESULTS: A total of 15 studies with 1276 participants were included. The meta-analysis revealed no significant difference in IOP reduction between patients treated by MMC injection and sponge application (WMD = - 0.434). Significant differences were observed in bleb appearance grading scores for height (WMD = - 0.170) and extent (WMD = 0.174), with substantial heterogeneity. The use of anti-glaucoma medications was significantly lower in the injection group (WMD = - 0.274). However, there were no significant differences in the rates of complete success, qualified success, and failure. The study demonstrated moderate to high heterogeneity across various outcomes. CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis indicated that while both injection and sponge methods of MMC application during trabeculectomy were equally effective for IOP reduction, they differ in their impact on bleb morphology and postoperative medication requirement. The findings highlight the need for individualized treatment approaches in glaucoma surgery, taking into account the specific needs and characteristics of each patient.

Comparison of lacrimal gland dimensions and volume in unilateral Ahmed glaucoma valve versus trabeculectomy.

PURPOSE: To evaluate radiographic lacrimal gland (LG) volume and dimensions in Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV)- versus trabeculectomy-treated eyes and contralateral non-treated eyes. METHODS: In this retrospective cohort study, 1616 medical records acquired between 2010 and 2020 were examined. In AGV-treated (group 1) eyes, there were 19 patients with records sufficient for radiological LG evaluation, and in trabeculectomy-treated (group 2) eyes, there were 18. The hospital workstation software was used to assess high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scans conducted under standard protocol using a 128 SL Optima CT 660 scanner. The software (Vitrea™) was used to perform semi-quantitative volumetric measurements. LG dimensions were obtained in the axial and reformatted coronal planes on each side, and four measures were generated using the widest LG tip-to-tip diameters in two planes: coronal length, coronal width (CW), axial length (AL), and axial width. RESULTS: The time interval between surgery and HRCT imaging was 50.97 ± 26.25 months. Group 1 had significantly lower LG volume than group 2 (594.11 ± 259.45 vs. 933.67 ± 294.09 mm3, P = 0.001). When compared to non-treated eyes, AGV-treated eyes had lower LG volume (P = 0.065) while trabeculectomy-treated eyes had higher LG volume (P = 0.031). Further, group 1 had decreased length and width in both the axial and coronal planes as compared to group 2, with AL and CW being significantly different (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: AGV and trabeculectomy had varied impacts on LG volume and dimensions despite being conducted in the same quadrant. HRCT appears to be effective in analysing AGV position, which may be related to LG volumetric and dimensional issues.

Zotarolimus alleviates post-trabeculectomy fibrosis via dual functions of anti-inflammation and regulating AMPK/mTOR axis.

OBJECTIVE: Postoperative scar formation is the primary cause of uncontrolled intraocular pressure following trabeculectomy failure. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of zotarolimus as an adjuvant anti-scarring agent in the experimental trabeculectomy. METHODS: We performed differential gene and Gene Ontology enrichment analysis on rabbit follicular transcriptome sequencing data (GSE156781). New Zealand white Rabbits were randomly assigned into three groups: Surgery only, Surgery with mitomycin-C treatment, Surgery with zotarolimus treatment. Rabbits were euthanized 3 days or 28 days post-trabeculectomy. Pathological sections were analyzed using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and Masson staining. In vitro, primary human tenon's capsule fibroblasts (HTFs) were stimulated by transforming growth factor-ß1 (TGF-ß1) and treated with either mitomycin-C or zotarolimus. Cell proliferation and migration were evaluated using cell counting kit-8, cell cycle, and scratch assays. Mitochondrial membrane potential was detected with the JC-1 probe, and reactive oxygen species were detected using the DCFH-DA probe. RNA and protein expressions were quantified using RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence. RESULTS: Transcriptome sequencing analysis revealed the involvement of complex immune factors and metabolic disorders in trabeculectomy outcomes. Zotarolimus effectively inhibited fibrosis, reduced proinflammatory factor release and immune cell infiltration, and improved the surgical outcomes of trabeculectomy. In TGF-ß1-induced HTFs, zotarolimus reduced fibrosis, proliferation, and migration without cytotoxicity via the dual regulation of the TGF-ß1/Smad2/3 and AMPK/AKT/mTOR pathways. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrates that zotarolimus mitigates fibrosis by reducing immune infiltration and correcting metabolic imbalances, offering a potential treatment for improving trabeculectomy surgical outcomes.

Long-Term Changes in Lamina Cribrosa Curvature Index After Trabeculectomy in Glaucomatous Eyes.

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate both short-term and long-term changes in the lamina cribrosa curvature index (LCCI) following trabeculectomy and investigate the factors influencing these changes. Methods: In this retrospective, observational study, 40 eyes of 40 patients with glaucoma who underwent trabeculectomy and had a follow-up of at least 2 years were included. Optic nerve head area was scanned by using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography before surgery (Pre_OP), within 6 months postoperatively (Post_OP1), and at the last visit (Post_OP2). LCCI values calculated from B-scan images at six different planes (0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, 120°, and 150°) and their mean values were compared. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were used to identify the clinical factors associated with the amount of LCCI changes. Results: The mean follow-up time was 38.3 ± 16.8 months. At Post_OP1, the mean LCCI decreased from 9.28 ± 2.58 to 7.91 ± 2.57 (P < 0.001), and the mean intraocular pressure decreased from 22.0 ± 7.6 mm Hg to 12.2 ± 3.8 mm Hg (P = 0.001). At Post_OP2, the mean LCCI was maintained at 7.74 ± 2.49 (P = 0.56 when compared to Post_OP1 and P < 0.001 when compared to Pre_OP). The mean intraocular pressure was 12.6 ± 5.4 mm Hg (P = 0.67 when compared to Post_OP1 and P < 0.001 when compared to Pre_OP). Long-term LCCI changes were associated with baseline age (P = 0.04), spherical equivalent (P = 0.02), mean IOP during follow-ups (P = 0.02), and preoperative LCCI (P = 0.04). Conclusions: Glaucomatous eyes undergoing trabeculectomy demonstrated reductions in the LCCI after a mean follow-up of over 3 years. Greater long-term LCCI reduction was associated with younger age, lower mean IOP during follow-up period, greater spherical equivalent refractive error, and preoperative LCCI.

Association of Atopic Dermatitis and Risk of Glaucoma Surgery: A Global Population-Based Study.

PRCIS: Severe atopic dermatitis (AD) in patients with glaucoma heightens the risk of requiring surgical intervention, necessitating prompt specialist care and strict surveillance. OBJECTIVE: The impact of AD on the prognosis of patients with glaucoma is rarely studied. This study aims to assess the risk of requiring glaucoma surgery among patients with glaucoma with and without AD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective cohort analysis, we assessed patients with glaucoma initially diagnosed from December 5, 2003 to December 3, 2018 using the TriNetX database, dividing them into AD and non-AD cohorts. 1:1 propensity-score matching created balanced groups for baseline traits and comorbidities. We compared the cohorts' risk and cumulative incidence of needing glaucoma surgery (minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, trabeculectomy, aqueous shunt, or transscleral cyclophotocoagulation). A subgroup analysis was also conducted for patients with severe AD. RESULTS: Out of 528,469 patients with glaucoma, 2624 were in the AD group. Among the AD group, 584 had severe AD. The AD group showed a comparable risk of requiring surgery to the non-AD group (hazard ratio: 1.03; 95% CI: 0.72, 1.47). In contrast, the severe AD group demonstrated a significantly greater risk and cumulative incidence of surgery (hazard ratio: 2.80; 95% CI: 1.37, 5.73; log-rank P = 0.003) compared with the non-AD group. CONCLUSION: Patients with glaucoma with severe AD are significantly more likely to need surgical intervention, with AD severity being a correlating factor for increased risk.

Complications after Gonioscopy-Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy in glaucoma treatment - literature review.

Glaucoma is a disease that leads to optic nerve damage and irreversible loss of the visual field. Gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy (GATT) is a minimally invasive glaucoma surgery technique, where the surgeon opens the trabecular network and Schlemm's canal to improve the outflow of the aqueous humor. This method has shown efficacy in reducing intraocular pressure in patients with primary and secondary glaucoma. GATT has gained popularity due to its minimally invasive nature, compatibility with cataract surgery and relatively low cost. Despite its advantages, the procedure can be associated with many complications such as hyphema, intraocular pressure spikes and corneal edema. In rare cases, it can lead to Descemet's membrane detachment or cystoid macular edema. The success of GATT procedure mostly depends on the surgeon's skill and experience, but also on the patient's risk factors, including age and preoperative intraocular pressure levels. Further studies are required to understand long outcomes and identify the patients, who may be at higher risk of complications.

Surgery Outcomes of Prolene Suture Gonioscopy-Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy (GATT): Up to 4 Years Follow-Up and Prognostic Factors.

PRCIS: Long-term success was achievable after GATT. GATT performed at early stage of glaucoma had better surgery outcomes. Trabeculoplasty may compromise surgery success. PURPOSE: To evaluate the long-term effectiveness of prolene suture gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy (GATT) and identify factors that may affect surgical outcomes. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This is a retrospective cohort study of adult patients with prolene suture GATT performed by a single surgeon at 1 medical center. RESULTS: Of the 145 eyes from 124 patients studied, intraocular pressure was reduced from 22.1±7.8 to 15.1±3.2 and 15.1±3.5 mm Hg, and the number of glaucoma medications was reduced from 3.2±1.1 to 1.3±1.4 and 1.4±1.5 at postoperative years 3 and 4, respectively. Ninety-three and 71 eyes completed a 3- and 4-year follow-up, with 44% of the eyes at year 4 remaining medication free. Compared with eyes with combined GATT/cataract extraction (CE), eyes with GATT alone had significantly more preoperative medications and a higher reoperation rate (31% vs. 16.5%). Eyes with prior trabeculoplasty had a higher reoperation rate (28.8%) than those without (16.1%). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that GATT/CE eyes without trabeculoplasty had a longer median time to failure (48 mo) than GATT/CE eyes with trabeculoplasty (18 mo), and GATT eyes with or without trabeculoplasty (9 and 12 mo, respectively). CONCLUSION: Prolene suture GATT successfully reduced IOP. Eyes with more preoperative medications responded less well to GATT. Prior laser trabeculoplasty was associated with poorer outcomes. Further study is needed to verify these findings.

Responsiveness to Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty in Open-Angle Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension.

Importance: Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is becoming the recommended first choice in the treatment of open-angle glaucoma (OAG). However, whether repeat SLT can be recommended regardless of initial response remains controversial. Objective: To assess the potential of OAG and ocular hypertension (OHT) undergoing repeat laser to respond favorably to SLT, termed responsiveness to SLT. Design, Setting, and Participants: This post hoc analysis of the Laser in Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension Trial in China (LiGHT China) was conducted from March 2015 to April 2023 in Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center. Of 1376 newly diagnosed OAG and OHT eyes of 771 adults in the original trial, 180 eyes of 105 participants were included in the present study, which underwent initial and repeat SLT as primary treatments. Exposures: Standard SLT was the primary treatment. Repeat SLT was the first choice of treatment escalation regardless of initial response. IOP reduction after SLT and the duration of effect were analyzed. The maximum reduction in IOP within 2 years after initial SLT and repeat SLT was used to identify potential nonresponsiveness. Main Outcomes and Measures: IOP reduction 2 months after SLT. Results: A total of 180 eyes from 105 Chinese participants (mean [SD] age, 45.6 [14.5] years; 58 [55.2%] male and 47 [44.8%] female) underwent repeat SLT. Initial SLT and repeat SLT were both associated with a reduction in IOP (mean, 4.5 mm Hg; 95% CI, 3.9 to 5.1; P < .001 and mean, 3.3 mm Hg; 95% CI, 2.7 to 3.8; P < .001, respectively). The mean (SD) IOP after repeat SLT was 15.8 (3.4) mm Hg, similar to 16.0 (4.0) mm Hg after initial SLT (difference, -0.4mm Hg; 95% CI, -1.0 to 0.3; P = .24). Duration of effect after repeat SLT was longer than after initial SLT (1043 days vs 419 days; hazard ratio, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.29 to 0.50; P < .001). IOP reduction after initial SLT was uncorrelated with that after repeat SLT, and 153 eyes (85.0%) responded favorably to SLT at least once. A subset of 27 eyes (15.0%) was identified as potentially nonresponsive and found distinctive with older age (mean [SD], 54.1 [12.5] years vs 44.2 [14.2] years; difference, 10.5 years; 95% CI, 2.9 to 18.1; P = .009), higher proportion of female participants (difference, 27.5%; 95% CI, 3.6 to 51.5; P = .03), and lower baseline IOP (difference, -3.2 mm Hg; 95% CI, -5.2 to -1.3; P = .001). Conclusions and Relevance: These post hoc analyses showed that most cases of OAG and OHT were highly responsive to SLT and support the consideration of repeat SLT regardless of initial response, while individuals who are nonresponsive to this treatment may have specific features.

Evaluation of Macular Thickness in Glaucoma Patients Using Prostaglandin Analog Eye Drops Undergoing Trabeculectomy with Mitomycin C: Prospective, Comparative, Randomized, Masked Examiner Study.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to evaluate the macular thickness of glaucomatous patients undergoing trabeculectomy (TREC) with mitomycin C (MMC) with or without the use of prostaglandin analog (PA) eye drops. METHODS: In this prospective, comparative clinical trial, patients with glaucoma and indications for TREC with MMC using PA and without previous macular changes were randomized into 2 groups: the study group (SG) and the control group (CG). In the CG, PA was suspended between 30 and 60 days after the preoperative exams. The subjects were evaluated, including optical coherence tomography (OCT) with the Cirrus 4000 macular protocol preoperatively and in the postoperative period on 3 occasions: 1-3 days ("PO1"), 6-9 days ("PO7"), and 27-30 days ("PO30") after surgery. The results were compared between groups. RESULTS: Thirty-five eyes of 35 patients were included (17 in the CG and 18 in the SG). There was no statistically significant difference in age (p = 0.2), the preoperative visual field mean deviation (p = 0.08), or the preoperative intraocular pressure (SG: 24.8 ± 7.8 mm Hg vs. CG: 22.8 ± 6.0 mm Hg, p = 0.4). The preoperative macular OCT parameters were equivalent between the groups (p > 0.05). When comparing the variation of parameters between the groups between preop and PO30 there was equivalence in all of the comparisons evaluated. The presence (or absence) of the lens did not affect the results. CONCLUSION: PA eye drops did not affect macular thickness after TREC with MMC in glaucomatous patients.

A short-term comparison of surgical results between an ab-externo microshunt and trabeculectomy with a main focus on postoperative corneal astigmatism.

PURPOSE: To compare surgical results between ab-externo microshunt surgery and trabeculectomy, focusing on postoperative corneal astigmatism. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. METHODS: Subjects were patients with glaucoma who underwent either standalone ab-externo microshunt surgery or trabeculectomy. Data on ophthalmic examinations obtained preoperatively and 1, 3, and 5 months postoperatively were analyzed. To assess corneal astigmatism, two separate data sets measured by anterior segment optical coherence tomography and autorefractometer were evaluated. Multivariate linear mixed model analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with the astigmatism changes. RESULTS: Sixty eyes were examined: 13 eyes underwent microshunt surgery, and 47 eyes underwent trabeculectomy. The total corneal astigmatism measurements by anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) were: - 1.15 ± 0.85 D and - 1.17 ± 0.81 D for the microshunt and trabeculectomy groups, respectively, preoperatively. At five months postoperatively they were - 0.92 ± 0.47 D and - 1.61 ± 0.83 D, respectively (P = 0.807 for the microshunt group and P = 0.005 for the trabeculectomy group: Wilcoxon signed-rank test). AS-OCT also indicated similar results for posterior corneal astigmatism. Autorefractometry also found the total corneal astigmatism was significantly changed only in the trabeculectomy group. The linear mixed model analysis revealed that trabeculectomy (P = 0.001), older age (P = 0.004), and longer postoperative period (P = 0.015) were correlated with greater astigmatism changes. The intraocular pressures significantly decreased following both surgical treatments. CONCLUSIONS: Standalone ab-externo microshunt surgery has less effect on corneal astigmatism during a 5 month period than trabeculectomy. Both surgical procedures significantly reduced intraocular pressure.

Non-penetrating filtration surgery versus trabeculectomy in postoperative astigmatism: a meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Trabeculectomy and non-penetrating trabecular surgery are common operations for glaucoma. This meta-analysis aims to compare the effect of trabeculectomy and non-penetrating trabecular surgery in postoperative astigmatism of patients with glaucoma. METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed for studies comparing trabeculectomy and non-penetrating trabecular surgery in patients with glaucoma. The time frame for the search was from the time of construction to April 2024. There were no restrictions regarding study type or type of glaucoma. The endpoint was the surgically induced astigmatism assessed 6 months after operation. We conducted this meta-analysis following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis). RESULTS: Five eligible studies were included in this meta-analysis and presented data for 359 eyes with various types of glaucoma at different stages. The results revealed an increase in astigmatism in patients with glaucoma after trabeculectomy and non-penetrating trabecular surgery. Trabeculectomy had a higher incidence of astigmatism than in the non-penetrating trabecular surgery group at or around 6 months postoperatively, and the difference was statistically significant. (SMD = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.19 to 0.61, P = 0.02). CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrated that both trabeculectomy and non-penetrating trabecular surgery could increase astigmatism until 6 months after operation. Moreover, non-penetrating trabecular surgery group seems to have less influence on astigmatism. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42024517708.

Failed Ahmed glaucoma valves: trabeculectomy versus repeat shunt surgery.

INTRODUCTION: To investigate the outcomes of trabeculectomy (TRAB) versus repeat Ahmed glaucoma valve (re-AGV) implantation in eyes with Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) failure. METHODS: This quasi-experimental study includes patients with failed AGV implants requiring additional surgical intervention between 2018 and 2022. Patients in the TRAB group underwent a fornix-based procedure with mitomycin C 0.01% injection (0.1 mL). Eyes in the re-AGV group underwent repeat shunt surgery. The choice of the procedure was based on conjunctival condition. The primary outcome measure was surgical success rate based on various intraocular pressure (IOP) targets and percentages of IOP reduction from baseline: IOP ≤ 21 mmHg and 20% reduction (conventional criteria), IOP ≤ 18 and > 20% reduction (criterion A), IOP ≤ 15 and > 25% reduction (criterion B), and IOP ≤ 12 and > 30% reduction (criterion C). RESULTS: Forty-eight eyes of 48 patients were operated and reported herein, consisting of 22 eyes of 22 patients undergoing TRAB and 26 eyes of 26 subjects undergoing re-AGV. No significant difference was observed between the study groups in terms of initial diagnoses, baseline IOP or the number of prior surgeries. The cumulative probability of survival at one year was significantly higher in the trabeculectomy group using the three stricter success definitions. In both study groups, IOP was significantly reduced from baseline at all postoperative visits, and was significantly lower in the TRAB group at all time points beyond one month. At 12 months, 5% of TRAB versus 48% of re-AGV eyes required glaucoma medications (P < 0.001). The rate of complications was comparable between the study groups (P = 0.76) but there was a trend toward a greater need for repeat surgery in the re-AGV group (4 eyes versus nil, P = 0.07). CONCLUSIONS: Trabeculectomy can be considered a safe and effective surgical option in eyes with failed AGV leading to significantly lower IOP levels and more favorable success rates than re-AGV in selected patients.

Outcomes of Gonioscopy-Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy in Eyes With Prior Failed Glaucoma Surgery.

PRCIS: This study concludes that GATT can be an effective and safe surgical alternative for managing IOP in eyes with prior failed glaucoma surgeries, associated with minimal complications. PURPOSE: To report outcomes of gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy (GATT) in eyes with prior failed glaucoma surgery. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective study involving 30 eyes of 30 patients, all of whom had open angles on gonioscopy, experienced prior glaucoma surgery failures, and subsequently underwent GATT. The primary outcome measure was success defined as complete when the intraocular pressure (IOP) was >5 and ≤21/16 mm Hg without glaucoma medications and qualified with medications. RESULTS: The mean age was 51.8±16.1 years. Twenty-one eyes underwent GATT and 9 eyes underwent phaco-GATT. Twenty-seven eyes had failed trabeculectomy and 3 eyes had failed glaucoma drainage device. Post-GATT, the IOP decreased from 27.1±7 to 16.9±6 mm Hg (P<0.001) at the end of 15 months, with a mean drop in AGM from 4.9±1.0 to 2±1.6. At postoperative 1 year, the probability of complete success was 20% (95% CI: 9-43) for an IOP criterion of both 21 and 16 mm Hg. The qualified success probability at 1 year was 82% (67-100) for an IOP criterion of 21 mm Hg and 57% (38-84) for an IOP criterion of 16 mm Hg. Risk factor for failure was older age [hazard ratio (HR): 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01-1.06]. The complications noted were hyphema in 14 eyes (46%), majority resolved within 1 week and all by 2 weeks. None needed any intervention. CONCLUSIONS: This study concludes that GATT can be an effective and safe surgical alternative for managing IOP in eyes with prior failed glaucoma surgeries, associated with minimal complications.

Scleral bridging technique for preventing PreserFlo microshunt exposure: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: The use of the PreserFlo microshunt is gaining popularity owing to its ease of implantation and reduced need for postoperative intervention compared to conventional trabeculectomy. PATIENT CONCERNS: However, microshunt exposure remains a severe complication of PreserFlo surgery, particularly in patients with a thin Tenon capsule and conjunctiva. However, the actual thickness and intensity of the Tenon capsule or conjunctiva can be confirmed only during surgery. DIAGNOSIS: Exfoliation glaucoma with previous several glaucoma surgeries with thinner Tenon capsule or conjunctiva. INTERVENTIONS: We performed PreserFlo implantation with a surgical technique to recover a thin Tenon capsule and conjunctiva by creating a half-thickness rectangular scleral flap under the shunt and covering it over the microshunt until the distal part, similar to the bridge. OUTCOMES: The patient had better intraocular pressure control with positive cosmetic appearance using this technique. CONCLUSION: This technique will be beneficial for both preventing exposure and holding down the top, in addition to improving cosmetic appearance.

IL-22/IL-22RA1 Promotes Human Tenon's Capsule Fibroblasts Proliferation and Regulates Fibrosis Through STAT3 Signaling Pathway.

Purpose: Although it is now understood that most antiglaucoma surgeries fail because of scarring of the filtering tract, the underlying mechanism remains to be elucidated. The present study investigated the mechanism by which the interleukin (IL)-22/IL-22 receptor alpha 1 (IL-22RA1) signaling pathway regulates scar formation in glaucoma patients. Method: A total of 31 glaucoma patients who underwent trabeculectomy surgery with uncontrollable intraocular pressure because of scarring and 19 strabismus patients as the control patient group were included in the present study. ELISA was performed to measure the content of IL-22 in peripheral blood. Serum from patients was used to incubate human Tenon's capsule fibroblasts (HTFs) cells and IL-22 antibody rescued the effect of IL-22 on the biological functions. qPCR and Western blot were performed to determine IL-22RA1 mRNA and protein expression levels. Flow cytometry was performed to assess the cell cycle distribution and the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was used to analyze cell proliferation. Results: The ELISA assay revealed that the serum IL-22 level of glaucoma patients was significantly higher than the healthy group (29.80 ± 5.1 ng/µL vs. 5.21 ± 0.9 ng/µL). After incubation with patient serum, the proliferation and activation of human Tenon fibroblasts (HTFs) were promoted. IL-22 mediated the biological function of HTFs via directly binding IL-22RA1. Moreover, transfection of the siR-IL-22RA1 or IL-22RA1 gene resulted in significant antifibrosis or profibrosis in HTFs. When a signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3 inhibitor (BAY) was introduced to the IL-22RA1 overexpression group, IL-22-induced proliferation was reduced in HTFs. Additionally, glaucoma patients had increased levels of IL-22 expression following surgery. Conclusions: The IL-22/IL-22RA1/STAT3 signaling pathway promoted fibroblast cell proliferation and alpha-smooth muscle actin, potentially regulating fibrosis in glaucoma filtration tracts. Our results provide hitherto undocumented insights into the pathophysiology of postoperative scarring.

Minimally invasive, maximally impactful: minimally invasive glaucoma surgery and the changing glaucoma landscape.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The advent of minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) procedures has ushered in a new era of interventional glaucoma. MIGS has expanded the treatment options for surgeons necessitating a rethinking of the optimal management strategy for patients with glaucoma. RECENT FINDINGS: There are several new MIGS devices and procedures available to glaucoma surgeons. With several options available, patient selection is crucial to maximize the utility of MIGS in the context of traditional glaucoma surgery. SUMMARY: A management algorithm is presented based on our practice pattern to help guide decision-making for glaucoma surgeons. Although we encourage surgeons to continue to broaden their toolkit, we emphasize the continued importance of teaching the next-generation traditional glaucoma surgery in the MIGS era. Future prospective studies are warranted to elucidate the optimal treatment strategy for patients with glaucoma.