[Effect of mitomycin C dissolved in a reversible thermosetting gel on outcome of filtering surgery in the rabbit].

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Based on our previous report that showed enhanced transfer of mitomycin C to the sclera and the conjunctiva by dissolving the antiproliferative in a reversible thermo-setting gel, we conducted a study to investigate the efficacy of the mitomycin C-gel in the rabbit. METHODS: We subconjunctivally injected 0.1 ml of the mitomycin C-gel solution containing several amounts of the drug. Trephination was performed in the injected region 24 hours later. Intraocular pressure measurement, and photography and ultrasound biomicroscopic examination of the filtering bleb were done 1, 2, and 4 weeks postoperatively. RESULTS: The gel containing 3.0 micrograms or more mitomycin C significantly enhanced bleb formation in addition to reducing the intraocular pressure. CONCLUSION: The reversible thermo-setting gel seems to facilitate filtration following glaucoma filtering surgery in the rabbit and deserves further investigation as a new method of mitomycin C application.