Twelve-month outcomes of Kahook dual blade goniotomy combined with cataract surgery in Latino patients.

PURPOSE: To evaluate 12 month surgical outcome of Kahook Dual Blade (KDB) goniotomy in combination with cataract surgery in Latino patients with open angle glaucoma (OAG) and ocular hypertension (OHT). METHODS: This retrospective study included 45 eyes of 40 patients who underwent KDB goniotomy combined with cataract extraction from January 2016 to September 2020 at two centers in South America. Primary outcome was surgical success defined as ≥ 20% intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction or ≥ 1 medication reduction from preoperative without additional IOP-lowering procedures and an IOP ≥ 5 mmHg or ≤ 21 mmHg. Additionally, we used 2 cutoffs values for success of IOP ≤ 18 and ≤ 15 mmHg. Secondary outcomes included: IOP, medication use, best corrected visual acuity, complications and failure-associated factors. RESULTS: Success rates at 12 months with cutoff limits of 21, 18 and 15 mmHg were 84.3%, 75.6% and 58.7%, respectively. At 12 months, mean preoperative IOP significantly decreased from 19.23 ± 0.65 mmHg on 2.3 ± 1.0 medications to 14.33 ± 0.66 mmHg on 0.6 ± 0.9 medications (p < 0.001) , with 62% of eyes free of hypotensive medication. Eyes that developed postoperative IOP spikes showed a higher risk for failure using the cutoff limit of IOP ≤ 18 mmHg with a hazard ratio of 3.6 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.80-7.13; p < 0.001). There were no serious ocular adverse events. CONCLUSIONS: KDB combined with cataract extraction showed safety and efficacy for decreasing IOP in OAG and OHT Latino patients. Additionally, dependence on medications was reduced significantly after surgery.

Evaluation of early ocular discomfort after glaucoma surgery: trabeculectomy versus Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation

ABSTRACT Purpose: This study aims to compare the initial ocular discomfort symptoms resulting from trabeculectomy and Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation surgeries. Methods: A prospective comparative study was conducted. The evaluation of ocular discomfort employed a questionnaire designed to identify the frequency and severity of distinct symptoms: ocular pain, general discomfort, tearing, foreign body sensation, and burning. This questionnaire was administered prior to surgery as a baseline, and subsequently at 7, 30, and 90 days post-surgery. Simultaneously, the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) was applied at these same time intervals. Results: The study encompassed a total of 17 patients (9 undergoing trabeculectomy and 8 undergoing Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation). The Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation group exhibited higher tearing levels at baseline (p=0.038). However, no statistically significant differences in symptoms were observed between the two surgeries at 7 and 30 days post-surgery. At the 90-day mark following surgery, patients who had undergone trabeculectomy reported a significantly higher foreign body sensation (p=0.004). Although OSDI scores did not differ between groups at baseline, the trabeculectomy group showed significantly higher OSDI scores than the Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation group at 7, 30, and 90 days after surgery (p<0.05). Conclusion: Post-surgery, patients who had undergone trabeculectomy experienced increased foreign body sensation. Trabeculectomy appears to cause greater early postoperative ocular discomfort compared to the Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation group.

Nonsuperotemporal quadrant implantation of the Ahmed glaucoma valve using modified long scleral tunnel technique for intraocular pressure control

ABSTRACT Purpose: As superotemporal implantation of the Ahmed glaucoma valve is not always feasible in cases of refractory glaucoma, this study examined the characteristics and surgical outcomes of cases in which the valve was implanted in a nonsuperotemporal quadrant using a modified long scleral tunnel technique. Methods: This retrospective case-control study included 37 eyes with nonsuperotemporal quadrant--Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation in Group 1 and 69 eyes with superotemporal Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation in Group 2. The demographic characteristics of these groups, surgical outcomes, including complications, further surgical interventions, and surgical success rates were compared. Surgical success was defined as an intraocular pressure not exceeding 21 mmHg, accompanied by a minimum reduction of 20% in intraocular pressure from the baseline without any additional intraocular pressure-lowering procedures, and the absence of light perception loss or phthisis bulbi. Results: Group 1 had significantly higher numbers of eyes with secondary glaucoma and preoperative surgical procedures than Group 2 (p<0.05). Both groups had mean preoperative intraocular pressure values, and mean intraocular pressure values at the last visit of 34.2 and 27.9 months, 35.5 ± 1.5 and 35.8 ± 1.2 mmHg, and 14.5 ± 5 and 14.9 mmHg, respectively. Although both groups had 70.2% and 75.8% as their five-year cumulative probability of success, respectively, the rates of complications, revisional surgery, and additional surgical procedures did not differ significantly (p>0.05). Conclusion: The modified long scleral tunnel technique for Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation in nonsuperotemporal quadrants achieves intraocular pressure control and complication rates comparable to superotemporal implantation.

Complicated trabeculectomy converted into ab externo cyclodialysis

ABSTRACT The creation of a scleral flap during trabeculectomy can be complicated by a buttonhole, partial amputation at the limbus, and extensive thinning. In some cases, the procedure must be aborted to prevent more serious postoperative complications. This report describes a technique of converting complicated trabeculectomy into ab externo cyclodialysis. A 41-year-old patient with congenital glaucoma presented with a perforated scleral wall with the choroidal tissue exposed during the dissection of the partial-thickness scleral flap. By using a Barraquer cyclodialysis spatula through the scleral perforation, the choroid was separated from the sclera up to the scleral spur over 30° into the anterior chamber. The sclera and conjunctiva/Tenon were sutured with 10-0 nylon single sutures. Two months later, the intraocular pressure was reduced to 16 mmHg with no hypotensive topical medications. This case illustrates an alternative approach to managing a flap-related perioperative complication in trabeculectomy, which yielded good early results.

Surgical Augmentation of the Suprachoroidal Space: A Novel Material and Implant.

Microinvasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) has emerged as a safer method to lower IOP with minimal impact on patient quality of life compared to traditional glaucoma surgeries. With the advent of MIGS, there has been a renewed interest in exploring the suprachoroidal route. MIGS targeting the suprachoroidal space allow for a safe reduction in IOP while sparing conjunctiva and allowing "blebless" surgery, thus avoiding bleb-related complications. This article aims to review the rationale behind the suprachoroidal MIGS procedures and the literature surrounding the efficacy and safety of a novel suprachoroidal device, the MINIject. The available literature has shown promising IOP lowering results with the MINIject implant with a potentially safer and less invasive approach than traditional glaucoma surgeries.

Trabecular microbypass as replacement therapy in pharmacologically controlled open-angle glaucoma patients / Implante de by-pass trabecular como alternativa aos colírios em portadores de glaucoma de ângulo aberto controlados com tratamento clínico

ABSTRACT Purpose: To assess the outcomes of the trabecular bypass as replacement therapy for medications in pharmacologically controlled vs. pharmacologically uncontrolled open-angle glaucoma patients. Methods: This was a retrospective study of eyes treated with first- (iStent) or second-generation (iStent inject) trabecular bypass. Group 1 consisted of eyes with pharmacologically controlled intraocular pressure <18 mmHg and Group 2 consisted of eyes with pharmacologically controlled intraocular pressure ≥18 mmHg. The main outcomes measured were qualified (with or without medications) and unqualified or complete (without medications) success rates at different target intraocular pressures, mean reduction (%) in medication use, and proportion of medication-free eyes. Results: The mean age was 70.4 years in Group 1 (n=105) and 68.1 years in Group 2 (n=65). Qualified success rates for intraocular pressure <18 mmHg, intraocular pressure <15 mmHg, and intraocular pressure <12 mmHg were similar between the groups (Group 1: 96.2%, 88.6%, and 32.4%, respectively; Group 2: 93.8%, 78.5%, and 21.5%, respectively; all p>0.05). Complete success rates were significantly higher in Group 1 than in Group 2: for intraocular pressure <18 mmHg (76.2% vs. 47.7%), intraocular pressure <15 mmHg (73.3% vs. 40.0%), and intraocular pressure <12 mmHg (14.3% vs. 4.6%). The mean reduction in medication use was higher in Group 1 than in Group 2. At the end of follow-up, 79.0% of eyes in Group 1 and 47.7% of eyes in Group 2 became medication-free. Conclusions: Both groups showed high qualified success rates, but eyes with baseline pharmacologically controlled intraocular pressure <18 mmHg showed higher complete success rates and greater chances of achieving no need for medications.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar os resultados dos implantes de by-pass trabecular como terapia de substituição aos colírios em pacientes com glaucoma de ângulo aberto controlados com medicação vs. não controlados com medicação. Métodos: Este foi um estudo retrospectivo de olhos submetidos a cirurgia de implante de by-pass trabecular de primeira (iStent) ou segunda geração (iStent inject). O Grupo 1 consistiu em olhos com pressão intraocular medicada <18 mmHg e o Grupo 2 consistiu em olhos com pressão intraocular medicada ≥18 mmHg. Os principais desfechos foram as taxas de sucesso relativo (com ou sem medicamentos) e completo (sem medicamentos) em diferentes pressões intraoculares-alvo, redução média (%) no uso de medicamentos e proporção de olhos sem medicamentos. Resultados: A média de idade foi de 70,4 anos no Grupo 1 (n=105) e 68,1 anos no Grupo 2 (n=65). As taxas de sucesso relativo para pressão intraocular <18 mmHg, pressão intraocular <15 mmHg e pressão intraocular <12 mmHg foram semelhantes entre os grupos (Grupo 1: 96,2%, 88,6% e 32,4%, respectivamente; Grupo 2: 93,8%, 78,5% e 21,5%, respectivamente; todos p>0,05). As taxas de sucesso completo foram significativa mente maiores no Grupo 1 do que no Grupo 2: pressão intraocular <18 mmHg (76,2% vs. 47,7%); pressão intraocular <15 mmHg (73,3% vs. 40%); pressão intraocular <12 mmHg (14,3% vs. 4,6%). A redução média no uso de medicamentos foi maior no Grupo 1 do que no Grupo 2. Ao final do acompanhamento, 79,0% dos olhos do Grupo 1 e 47,7% dos olhos do Grupo 2 estavam livres medicamentos. Conclusões: Ambos os grupos mostraram altas taxas de sucesso relativo, mas olhos com pressão intraocular medicada pré-operatória <18 mmHg apresentaram taxas de sucesso completo mais elevadas, bem como maiores chances de se tornarem livres de medicamentos para glaucoma.

Management of glaucoma with Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis / Manejo do glaucoma em olhos com ceratoprótese Boston tipo 1

ABSTRACT Purpose: To describe the frequency, clinical characteristics, complications, and management of glaucoma in eyes that underwent keratoprosthesis implantation. Methods: Patients who underwent keratoprosthesis surgery between June 2010 and January 2020 were retrospectively evaluated for glaucoma association and prognoses. Results: Among 17 patients who underwent keratoprosthesis surgery, 9 (52.9%) were associated with underlying or keratoprosthesis-induced glaucoma. Five eyes (29.4%) had underlying glaucoma and underwent a glaucoma drainage device implantation at least 6 months before keratoprosthesis surgery. One eye (5.9%) with normal intraocular pressure had glaucoma drainage device implantation at the same session with keratoprosthesis surgery due to high-risk characteristics of anterior segment structures. Four eyes with preexisting glaucoma showed progression after keratoprosthesis surgery. Additional antiglaucomatous treatment was commenced in two eyes whereas implantation of 2nd glaucoma drainage device was performed in two eyes. Postoperative complications in three eyes (100%) with glaucoma drainage device implanted 6 months before or at the same session with aphakic type keratoprosthesis surgery with partial vitrectomy included rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in two eyes and bacterial endophthalmitis in one eye. Migration of silicone oil through the tube to the subconjunctival area was seen after pars plana vitrectomy in one eye. None of the three eyes (0%) that underwent glaucoma drainage device implantation years before keratoprosthesis surgery experienced a posterior segment complication other than glaucomatous progression. Out of 11 eyes with no previous history of glaucoma, 3 (27.3%) showed high intraocular pressure and glaucomatous disc changes after keratoprosthesis surgery, which could be pharmacologically controlled. Conclusions: In this cohort, eyes with preexisting glaucoma were more difficult to manage compared to eyes with de novo glaucoma after keratoprosthesis surgery. Retinal complications appeared more often when glaucoma drainage device implantation was performed no more than 6 months before aphakic type keratoprosthesis surgery with partial vitrectomy.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever a frequência, as características clínicas, as complicações e o manejo do glaucoma em olhos submetidos a implantes de ceratoprótese. Métodos: Pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de ceratoprótese entre junho de 2010 e janeiro de 2020 foram avaliados retrospectivamente em termos de glaucoma associado e prognóstico. Resultados: Dos 17 pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de ceratoprótese, em 9 (52,9%) foi constatado glaucoma subjacente ou induzido por ceratoprótese. Cinco olhos (29,4%) tinham glaucoma subjacente e receberam a implantação de um dispositivo de drenagem de glaucoma pelo menos 6 meses antes da cirurgia de ceratoprótese. Um olho (5,9%) com pressão intraocular normal teve implantado um dispositivo de drenagem de glaucoma na mesma sessão da cirurgia de ceratoprótese, devido às características de "alto risco" das estruturas do segmento anterior. Quatro dos olhos com glaucoma preexistente apresentaram progressão após a cirurgia de ceratoprótese. Foi iniciado um tratamento antiglaucomatoso adicional em 2 olhos, enquanto outros 2 olhos receberam o implante de um segundo dispositivo de drenagem de glaucoma. Foram observadas complicações pós-operatórias em 3 olhos (100%) com dispositivo de drenagem de glaucoma implantado 6 meses antes ou na mesma sessão da cirurgia de ceratoprótese tipo afácica com vitrectomia parcial, incluindo descolamento de retina regmatogênico em 2 olhos e endoftalmite bacteriana em 1 olho. Em 1 olho observou-se migração do óleo de silicone para a área subconjuntival através do tubo após vitrectomia via pars plana. Nenhum dos 3 olhos (0%) implantados com dispositivo de drenagem de glaucoma anos antes da cirurgia de ceratoprótese apresentou complicações do segmento posterior, exceto progressão glaucomatosa. Dos 11 olhos sem história prévia de glaucoma, 3 (27,3%) apresentaram alta pressão intraocular e alterações do disco glaucomatoso após cirurgia de ceratoprótese, condições que podem ser controladas clinicamente. Conclusões: Nesta coorte, os olhos com glaucoma pré-existente foram mais difíceis de manejar, comparados àqueles que desenvolveram glaucoma após a cirurgia de ceratoprótese. Apareceram mais complicações retinianas quando o implante do dispositivo de drenagem de glaucoma foi realizado no máximo 6 meses antes da cirurgia de ceratoprótese do tipo afácico com vitrectomia parcial.

Outcomes after combined excisional goniotomy and manual small incision cataract surgery.

AIM: To report the long-term outcomes of combined excisional goniotomy and manual small incision cataract surgery (MSICS). METHODS: This is a retrospective case series of patients with open angle glaucoma and visually significant cataracts that underwent combined excisional goniotomy and MSICS with one-year follow-up. The medical history, demographic information, and clinical characteristics of each case were recorded. Data regarding changes in vision, intraocular pressure (IOP), the number of glaucoma medications, and the evolution of the disease after surgery were reported. RESULTS: Three patients, with open angle glaucoma and cataracts underwent combined excisional goniotomy and MSICS without adverse events. All patients had improvement in vision compared to baseline measurements. The range of IOP at baseline was from 14 to 18 mm Hg and decrease to a range of 10 to 14 mm Hg after one year of follow-up. Additionally, two patients also decreased their dependence on IOP-lowering medications at the last follow up visit with one patient maintaining baseline level of medication use. CONCLUSION: A combination of excisional goniotomy and MSICS illustrates both the safety and efficacy to treat patients with visually significant cataract and glaucoma. This procedure allows for a more cost-effective surgical approach that matches the needs of resource strained territories around the globe.

Cystoid Macular Edema after an uncomplicated Gonioscopy- Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy on a previously vitrec- tomized patient.

Purpose: The main purpose of this study was to report a case of cystoid macular edema (CME) after gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy (GATT). Methods: We describe the case of a 73-year-old woman with ocular hypertension and history of cataract surgery combined with posterior vitrectomy and epiretinal membrane peeling 2 years before, who developed CME after uncomplicated GATT procedure. Results: Uneventful GATT surgery was performed in an eye with ocular hypertension. A month after GATT surgery, the patient com-plained of blurry vision. Best corrected visual acuity had deteriorated from 20/20 on Snellen chart, to 20/70. The patient was diagnosed with CME. Treatment with topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and topical corticosteroids for one month, and oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitor for one week achieved a total CME regression with recovery of a normal macular and foveal architecture. Conclusions: Surgery-induced CME may occur following stand-alone microinvasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) such as GATT. It would be worthwhile to conduct studies to explore whether the prophylactic use of NSAID and corticosteroids is justified.

Standalone Implantation of 2-3 Trabecular Micro-Bypass Stents (iStent inject ± iStent) as an Alternative to Trabeculectomy for Moderate-to-Severe Glaucoma.

INTRODUCTION: This retrospective consecutive study compared standalone implantation of multiple (2-3) trabecular micro-bypass stents (iStent inject ± iStent) (Multi-Stent group) vs trabeculectomy + mitomycin C (Trab group) in moderate to severe open-angle glaucoma (OAG). METHODS: Eligible patients underwent Multi-Stent or Trab surgery from 2018 to 2020 and had at least 3-month follow-up; visual field mean deviation (VF MD) - 6 dB or worse; inadequate prior response to maximum medications ± laser procedures; and had trabeculectomy as their next planned intervention. Primary effectiveness, safety-adjusted treatment success, was defined as ≥ 20% intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction on the same or fewer medications, without clinically significant safety events (severe complications, secondary surgeries, reinterventions). Secondary effectiveness included mean IOP and medications; qualified and complete attainment of target IOP (≤ 21/18/15/12 mmHg and > 6 mmHg); health-economic and quality-of-life (QoL) measures; and 2-vs-3-stent subgroup analysis. RESULTS: The baseline groups (n = 70 Multi-Stent/40 Trab) were similar: mean IOP (21.1 mmHg/22.3 mmHg); medications (2.87/3.10 medications); disease stage (30%/35% severe); VF MD (- 10.1 dB/- 10.4 dB); and mean last follow-up (LFU, 13.1 months/15.7 months) (all differences non-significant). Primary effectiveness: treatment success at LFU was 62.9% vs 30.0% in Multi-Stent vs Trab eyes, respectively (p = 0.001). Secondary effectiveness: At LFU in Multi-Stent vs Trab groups, respectively: mean IOP decreased by 31% to 14.2 mmHg (p < 0.001) vs by 43% to 12.5 mmHg (p < 0.001); mean medications decreased by 51% to 1.31 medications (p < 0.001) vs by 84% to 0.43 medications (p < 0.001). Multi-Stent eyes, compared to Trab eyes, had fewer visits ± reinterventions within 3 months (3.6 vs 6.1, p < 0.001); longer time to first reintervention (12.2 months vs 4.5 months, p = 0.01); fewer total reinterventions (0.26 vs 0.75, p = 0.006); and earlier lifting of postoperative restrictions (12.6 vs 32.1 days, p < 0.001). In 2-vs-3-stent analysis, there was a trend toward more 3-stent eyes achieving target IOP than 2-stent eyes. Visual fields remained stable in both Multi-Stent and Trab eyes. CONCLUSION: Implanting 2-3 trabecular micro-bypass stents was a viable alternative to trabeculectomy for moderate-to-severe OAG, with clinically appropriate IOP/medication reductions and higher safety-adjusted treatment success vs trabeculectomy.

Needle guided ab interno technique for tube insertion through the ciliary sulcus in uncontrolled glaucoma.

PURPOSE: To describe a modified ab interno technique for the tube implantation from a glaucoma draining device into the ciliary sulcus. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The modified ab interno technique was performed on four eyes of four patients. RESULTS: After the plate was fixed, a 21G needle is inserted through a paracentesis 180° away from the tube position into the anterior chamber and advanced to the posterior chamber through the sclera; finally, the needle exits the eye, then the tube is inserted into the lumen of the needle. The tube is then inserted simultaneously as the 21G needle is pulled out so the tube is placed on the ciliary sulcus. CONCLUSIONS: We report a simple and novel technique for the tube implantation from a glaucoma draining device into the ciliary sulcus, in which the tube is guided with a 21G needle from an accessory paracentesis in order to achieve a posterior placement of the tube.

Procedimentos Minimamente Invasivos para Glaucoma: uma revisão atualizada da literatura / Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): an updated literature review

RESUMO O glaucoma é considerado a maior causa de cegueira irreversível no mundo, e o aumento da pressão intraocular constitui seu principal fator de risco. Usualmente, a terapia inicial do glaucoma consiste na redução da pressão intraocular a partir da instilação de drogas hipotensoras tópicas, estando as cirurgias antiglaucomatosas reservadas, na maioria das vezes, para casos em que o controle da doença não é atingido clinicamente. Classicamente, o tratamento cirúrgico do glaucoma é realizado a partir dos procedimentos filtrantes: trabeculectomia e implante de dispositivos de drenagem. O acrônimo MIGS (do inglês minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, procedimentos minimamente invasivos para glaucoma) corresponde a um grupo de procedimentos cirúrgicos pouco invasivos, que propõem a redução pressórica de maneira mais segura e previsível, quando comparada às técnicas cirúrgicas antiglaucomatosas convencionais.

ABSTRACT Glaucoma is considered the biggest cause of irreversible blindness in the world and the increase in intraocular pressure is its main risk factor. Usually, the initial therapy for glaucoma consists of reducing IOP through the instillation of topical hypotensive drugs, with antiglaucoma surgeries being normally reserved for cases in which disease control is not clinically achieved. Classically, the surgical treatment of glaucoma is performed using filtering procedures: trabeculectomy; non-penetrating sclerotomy and glaucoma drainage devices. The acronym MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery) corresponds to a group of minimally invasive surgical procedures that provide a safer and more predictable pressure reduction when compared to conventional antiglaucoma surgical techniques.

A Brazilian cost-utility analysis of trabecular micro-bypass with iStent inject® for the treatment of open-angle glaucoma / Análise de custo-utilidade do implante trabecular iStent inject® para o tratamento do glaucoma de ângulo aberto no Brasil

ABSTRACT Purpose To evaluate the cost-utility of the iStent inject® for the treatment of mild-to-moderate open-angle glaucoma (OAG) within the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS). Methods A Markov model was developed, in which the effectiveness outcome measure was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER: R$ / QALY quality-adjusted life-year). Direct medical costs were obtained from the SUS perspective. The base case comprised of a hypothetical cohort of patients with OAG using topical medication and being managed according to the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines (PCDT) and a real-world setting based on data from Datasus. The model's robustness through sensitivity analyses was tested. Results In the PCDT base case setting, the trabecular micro-bypass implant provided gains of 0.47 QALYs and an ICER of R$7,996.66/QALY compared to treatment with topical medication. In the real-world setting based on data from Datasus, the trabecular micro-bypass implant, provided gains of 0.47 QALYs and an ICER of R$4,485.68/QALY compared to treatment with topical medication. The results were robust to sensitivity analyses. Conclusion Incorporating iStent inject® to SUS provides an improvement in the patient's quality of life with an additional cost that warrants the benefit provided to patients. Results may be considered cost-effective compared to topical medication.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar a relação custo-utilidade do iStent inject® para o tratamento do glaucoma de ângulo aberto leve a moderado no Sistema Único de Saúde. Métodos Foi desenvolvido um modelo de Markov, no qual a medida de resultado de efetividade foi a razão custo-efetividade incremental (razão de custo-efetividade incremental: R$/ano de vida ajustado pela qualidade). Os custos médicos diretos foram obtidos por meio da perspectiva do Sistema Único de Saúde. O caso base foi composto de uma coorte hipotética de pacientes com glaucoma de ângulo aberto em uso de medicação tópica tratados de acordo com o Protocolo Clínico e Diretrizes Terapêuticas e um cenário do mundo real baseado em dados do Departamento de Informática do Sistema Único de Saúde. Foi testada a robustez do modelo por meio de análises de sensibilidade. Resultados No cenário base do Protocolo Clínico e Diretrizes Terapêuticas, o implante trabecular micro-bypass proporcionou ganhos de 0,47 ano de vida ajustado pela qualidade e razão de custo-efetividade incremental de R$7.996,66/ano de vida ajustado pela qualidade em relação ao tratamento com medicação tópica. No cenário real baseado em dados do Departamento de Informática do Sistema Único de Saúde, o implante trabecular proporcionou ganhos de 0,47 ano de vida ajustado pela qualidade e razão de custo-efetividade incremental de R$ 4.485,68/ano de vida ajustado pela qualidade em relação ao tratamento com medicação tópica. Os resultados foram robustos para análises de sensibilidade. Conclusão A incorporação do iStent inject® ao Sistema Único de Saúde proporciona melhora na qualidade de vida do paciente com um custo adicional que garante o benefício proporcionado a eles. Os resultados podem ser considerados custo-efetivos em comparação com a medicação tópica.

Glaucoma drainage devices / Dispositivos de drenagem para glaucoma

ABSTRACT Glaucoma drainage devices are important therapeutic options for cases of refractory glaucoma, in which trabeculectomy with antimetabolites has shown high risk of failure. There are devices with different sizes, designs and materials, and several studies have been conducted to test their safety and effectiveness. Despite known complications, their use has progressively increased in recent years, and they are the primary surgical option, in some situations. The aim of this review is to discuss the importance, mechanisms, biomaterials, results and complications of glaucoma drainage devices.

RESUMO Os dispositivos de drenagem para glaucoma são importante opção terapêutica em casos de glaucomas refratários, nos quais a trabeculectomia com antimetabólitos tem alta chance de falência. Há dispositivos com diferentes tamanhos, desenhos e materiais, e muitos estudos foram realizados para testar sua segurança e eficácia. Apesar de suas conhecidas complicações, seu uso tem aumentado progressivamente nos últimos anos, inclusive como primeira opção cirúrgica, em algumas situações. O objetivo desta revisão foi discutir a importância, os mecanismos, os biomateriais, os resultados e as complicações dos dispositivos de drenagem para glaucoma.

Primary outcomes of Baerveldt glaucoma implants with a modified technique to control intraocular pressure in different cases of glaucoma.

INTRODUCTION: To describe the outcomes of Baerveldt glaucoma implants implanted via a modified technique with regard to early intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction in cases of uncontrolled glaucoma. METHODS: The medical records of patients who had Baerveldt glaucoma implants of 350 or 250 mm2 implanted via a modified technique and were followed up for a period of at least 6 months were reviewed. The primary outcome measures were the mean IOP and number of glaucoma medications at each visit. We evaluated complete success rates at 1 day, 1 week and 1 month, defined as IOP values [Formula: see text] 5 mmHg and ≤ 21 mmHg prior to ligature rupture. RESULTS: A total of 42 eyes had Baerveldt glaucoma implants and met the inclusion criteria. The mean preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) was 34.2 ± 11.2 mmHg. The postoperative mean IOP values were 15.1 mmHg ± 8.8 (p < 0.05), 17.7 ± 7.1 mmHg (p < 0.05), 12.3 ± 4.0 mm Hg (p < 0.05) at 1 day, 1 month, and 6 months, respectively. The rate of complete success on the first day was 78%, at the first month was 69%, and at 6 months was 95.2%. The number of glaucoma medications used was significantly lower at 6 months (P = < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The modified surgical technique using Baerveldt implants enables a safe, effective, and reliable IOP control in early postoperative patients with uncontrolled glaucomas.

Preventing glaucoma progression using the trabecular micro-bypass implant iStent inject®. A cost-effectiveness analysis / Prevenindo a progressão do glaucoma por meio do implante de by-pass trabecular iStent inject®. Uma análise de custo-efetividade

ABSTRACT Objective To assess the economic impact of reducing glaucoma progression by using the trabecular micro-bypass implant, iStent inject®, in the Reference Centers for glaucoma treatment within the Brazilian Public Unified Health System (SUS). Methods In a cost-effectiveness analysis, a Markov model was developed, and the costs were obtained from the SUS perspective (medical direct costs). Effectiveness was measured in progression-free life-years. The time horizon was the mean life expectancy of the Brazilian population. The model parameters were obtained through a review and a critical analysis of the literature. The base case comprised a hypothetical cohort of patients with open-angle glaucoma, using anti-glaucoma eye drops and followed up at Reference Centers of SUS. We tested whether the incorporation of iStent inject® as an alternative second-line therapy would be cost-effective. The outcome measure was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (R$/progression-free life-years). We tested the robustness of the model by univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. Results The use of iStent inject® led to decreased progression rate of glaucoma, evidenced by the amount of progression-free life-years obtained with each treatment strategy (7.82 progression-free life-years with iStent inject® versus 6.33 progression-free life-years with medical treatment), thereby improving glaucoma control. There was also a reduction in future costs associated with eye drops, filtering surgeries, and treatment complications. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio ranged from R$ 6,429.30 to R$ 7,550.97/progression-free life-years. The model proved to be robust in the sensitivity analyses. Conclusion This analysis showed that iStent inject®, when used after the failure of the first-line therapy, is able to reduce the rate of glaucoma progression at an acceptable cost.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar o impacto econômico da redução da progressão do glaucoma pelo uso do implante de by-pass trabecular iStent inject® no ambiente dos Centros de Referência para tratamento do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). Métodos Em uma análise de custo-efetividade, elaborou-se um modelo de Markov, cujos custos foram obtidos a partir da perspectiva do SUS financiador (custos médicos diretos). A efetividade foi medida em anos de vida livres de progressão. O horizonte temporal foi a expectativa de vida média da população brasileira. Os parâmetros do modelo foram obtidos pela revisão e pela análise crítica da literatura. O caso base foi composto de uma coorte hipotética de portadores de glaucoma de ângulo aberto em uso de colírios antiglaucomatosos e em acompanhamento nos Centros de Referência do SUS. Testou-se se a incorporação do iStent inject® como alternativa à segunda linha de tratamento seria custo-efetiva. A medida de desfecho foi a razão de custo-efetividade incremental (R$/anos de vida livres de progressão). A robustez do modelo foi testada por meio de análises de sensibilidade univariada e probabilística. Resultados A utilização do iStent inject® proporcionou uma diminuição da velocidade de progressão do glaucoma, evidenciada pela quantidade de anos de vida livres de progressão obtida com cada estratégia de tratamento (7,82 anos de vida livres de progressão com iStent inject® versus 6,33 anos de vida livres de progressão com tratamento com colírios), melhorando, dessa forma, o controle do glaucoma. Houve ainda redução nos custos futuros associados aos colírios, às cirurgias filtrantes e às complicações do tratamento. A razão de custo-efetividade incremental variou de R$6.429,30 a R$7.550,97/anos de vida livres de progressão. O modelo mostrou-se robusto nas análises de sensibilidade. Conclusão O iStent inject®, quando usado após a falha do primeiro medicamento, é capaz de reduzir a taxa de progressão do glaucoma a um custo aceitável.

Mid-Term Evaluation of iStent Inject® Trabecular Micro-Bypass Stent Implantation with or without Phacoemulsification: A Retrospective Study.

INTRODUCTION: This study evaluated the 6-month performance and safety of micro-invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) with iStent inject either with or without cataract surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Longitudinal retrospective study of 86 surgeries in 49 patients with inadequately controlled open-angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension who underwent iStent inject trabecular micro-bypass implantation either alone (isolated group) or combined with cataract surgery (combined group). The two primary outcomes included an intraocular pressure (IOP) drop of ≥20% versus preoperative values (adequate drop) and IOP maintenance between 6 and 18 mmHg (adequate Range). For both outcomes, we determined "complete" and "qualified" success if patients did not require or did require glaucoma medications, respectively, at the end of follow-up. Safety outcomes included best-corrected visual acuity, adverse events, and secondary surgeries. RESULTS: In the adequate drop analysis, 30.2% achieved "complete success," and 37.2% achieved "qualified success." For adequate range, 40.7% achieved "complete success" and 39.5% achieved "qualified success." There was no difference in medication decrease (p=0.77) nor IOP reduction (p=0.46) between the isolated and combined groups. Safety was generally favorable and similar between groups, with mild transient adverse events that resulted in no sequelae. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: iStent inject implantation either with or without cataract surgery was able to safely decrease IOP and medication requirements through 6 months after surgery.

A Case of Bilateral Delayed-onset Hyphema Following Pupil Dilation after Gonioscopy-assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy.

AIM AND OBJECTIVE: To present a case of bilateral delayed-onset hyphema following the administration of a 1% tropicamide and 2.5% phenylephrine fixed combination ophthalmic agent, in the late follow-up period of a gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy (GATT) combined with cataract extraction. BACKGROUND: Gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy consists on a 360° trabeculotomy through an ab interno approach that may also be combined with cataract surgery. Delayed-onset hyphema has been reported with trabecular minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) procedures. Some proposed mechanisms are ocular compression and decompression during sleeping on the surgical side and episcleral venous pressure rise after physical activity. CASE DESCRIPTION: We describe the case of a 68-year-old female patient with ocular hypertension (OHT) and bilateral cataracts who underwent uncomplicated combined GATT and cataract extraction surgery. Postoperatively, 8 months after the left eye (OS) surgery and 3 months after the right eye (OD) surgery, patient came for routine evaluation. After induced mydriasis, slit-lamp evaluation revealed the presence of 3+ OD and 4+ OS erythrocytes in the anterior chamber (AC). Prednisolone acetate was prescribed q.i.d. and remission of hyphema was achieved after 2 weeks. Subsequently, 4 months later, the pupil dilation was again induced showing 4+ erythrocytes in both eyes (OU), layered hyphema in the inferior quadrant OS, and intraocular pressure (IOP) spike OU. The intraocular pressure was controlled after oral acetazolamide was prescribed. Topic prednisolone was initiated, and after 1 week, the hyphema was resolved in OU. CONCLUSION: Delayed-onset microhyphema may occur following induced mydriasis even months after the uncomplicated GATT procedure. Ophthalmologists should be aware of the possibility of microhyphema after induced mydriasis and the risks that this might represent with noteworthy and repeated IOP spikes which may eventually require treatment. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Delayed-onset hyphema and IOP spikes may occur following the pupil dilation with fixed combination of phenylephrine and tropicamide ophthalmic agent after the uncomplicated GATT procedure. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Espinoza G, Rodriguez-Una I, Pedraza-Concha A. A Case of Bilateral Delayed-onset Hyphema Following Pupil Dilation after Gonioscopy-assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy. J Curr Glaucoma Pract 2020;14(2):72-75.

Primary outcomes of combined cataract extraction technique with Ab-Interno trabeculectomy and endoscopic Cyclophotocoagulation in patients with primary open angle Glaucoma.

BACKGROUND: Glaucoma surgery have been developed to lower intraocular pressure in a less invasive manner than traditional glaucoma surgery. The purpose of this article is to determine the outcome of using combined phacoemulsification technique, ab-interno trabeculectomy dual blade and endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) surgeries in patients with primary open angle glaucoma. METHODS: A retrospective case series was performed on 27 consecutive eyes with both primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and cataract; each eye was treated with combined phacoemulsification, ab-interno trabeculectomy-Kahook Dual Blade and Endocyclophotocoagulation at Instituto de ojos Oftalmosalud, Lima, Peru, between April 2017 and May 2017. INCLUSION CRITERIA: 1) Patients with uncontrolled mild to advanced POAG (according to Glaucoma Grading Scale HODAPP) 2) cataract condition 3) treatment with two or more glaucoma medications due to rapid progression in the visual fields (at least two in a short period of time). Intraocular pressure (IOP), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) logMAR and number of glaucoma medications were recorded prior to the study, at day 1, week 1, and 1,3,6 and 9 months after surgery. Primary outcome measure was surgical success defined in terms of IOP < 14 mmHg either with no medications (complete success) or with medications (qualified success). RESULTS: A total of 27 eyes from 27 patients were included. The mean basal IOP was 17.0 ± 3.7 mmHg and postoperatively was 11.6 ± 1.9 mmHg and 11.4 ± 1.8 mmHg (P < 0.001) at 6 and 9 months respectively. Glaucoma medications decreased from 1.9 ± 1.4 to 0.56 ± 1.05 at 9 month follow-ups (P < 0.001). Preoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) showed and improvement from 0.4 ± 0.4 LogMAR to 0.2 ± 0.4 logMAR at 9 months. The main complication was blood reflux intra-operatively (66.7%), which resolved without re-operation. The mean IOP was reduced by 32.9% from baseline and the surgical success was 92,6%, (complete success 70,3% and qualified success 29,6%) at 9 months. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with POAG, combined treatment with phacoemulsification, ab-interno trabeculectomy and endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation effectively reduced IOP and glaucoma medication dependence.

Changes in anterior segment parameters following insertion of ExPRESS mini glaucoma implant vs. trabeculectomy / Alterações nos parâmetros do segmento anterior após a inserção de implantes ExPRESS Mini para Glaucoma e após trabeculectomia

ABSTRACT Purpose: To compare changes in anterior segment parameters following ExPRESS Mini Glaucoma Shunt surgery vs. trabeculectomy using the Pentacam rotating Scheimpflug camera. Methods: In this prospective, comparative study, 27 patients with glaucoma treated at the Rabin Medical Center from 2009 to 2013 were enrolled in this prospective comparative study: 19 participants (19 eyes) underwent ExPRESS shunt implantation and 12 (13 eyes) underwent trabeculectomy. Changes in anterior chamber parameters at postoperative day 1 and postoperative month 3 were evaluated on Scheimpflug images. Results: Intraocular pressure decreased significantly from baseline in both groups. The decrease in both groups was similar at postoperative month 3 (p=0.82). ExPRESS surgery caused a transient increase in posterior corneal astigmatism (p=0.008) and a transient decrease in anterior chamber depth (p=0.016) and volume (p=0.006) on postoperative day 1. At postoperative month 3, these parameters were no longer statistically significant (p=0.65, p=0.51, and p=0.57 respectively). Trabeculectomy caused a transient increase in anterior and posterior corneal astigmatism on postoperative day 1 (p=0.003 and p=0.005, respectively), which were not evident at postoperative month 3 (p=1.0 and p=1.0, respectively). At postoperative month 3, both ExPRESS and trabeculectomy showed similar changes in anterior chamber parameters. Conclusions: Both ExPRESS mini glaucoma implant and trabeculectomy significantly decreased intraocular pressure and had transient effects on anterior segment parameters, with minor differences between the methods.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar as alterações nos parâmetros do segmento anterior após a cirurgia ExPRESS Mini Glaucoma Shunt vs. trabeculectomia usando a câmera Scheimpflug Pentacam rotativa. Métodos: Neste estudo comparativo prospectivo, 27 pacientes com glaucoma tratados no Centro Médico Rabin de 2009 a 2013 foram incluídos neste estudo comparativo prospectivo: 19 participantes (19 olhos) foram submetidos ao implante de derivação ExPRESS e 12 (13 olhos) foram submetidos à trabeculectomia. Alterações nos parâmetros da câmara anterior no dia 1 e em 3 meses de pós-operatório foram avaliadas pelas imagens de Scheimpflug. Resultados: A pressão intraocular diminuiu significativamente em relação aos valores iniciais nos dois grupos. A diminuição nos dois grupos foi semelhante no 3º mês pós-operatório (p=0,82). A cirurgia com ExPRESS causou um aumento temporário do astigmatismo posterior da córnea (p=0,008) e uma diminuição temporária da profundidade da câmara anterior (p=0,016) e do volume (p=0,006) no primeiro dia do pós-operatório. Ao final de três meses, esses parâmetros não foram mais estatisticamente significativos (p=0,065, p=0,51 e p=0,57, respectivamente). A trabeculectomia causou um aumento temporário do astigmatismo anterior e posterior da córnea no primeiro dia do pós-operatório (p=0,003 e p=0,005, respectivamente), mas isso não foi observado ao final de 3 meses (p=1,0 e p=1,0, respectivamente). Após 3 meses, tanto o EXPRESS quanto a trabeculectomia mostraram alterações semelhantes nos parâmetros da câmara anterior. Conclusões: O implante ExPRESS Mini para glaucoma e a trabeculectomia diminuíram significativamente a pressão intraocular e tiveram efeitos temporários nos parâmetros do segmento anterior, com pequenas diferenças entre os métodos.