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Glaucoma is one of the world's leading causes of irreversible vision loss. It is often asymptomatic until it reaches an advanced stage, which can have a significant impact on patients' daily lives. This paper describes the case of a 50-year-old female patient who presented with acute onset of ocular pain, photophobia, and loss of visual acuity in her right eye (RE). The patient's medical history includes congenital cataracts, surgical aphakia, nystagmus, strabismus, amblyopia, and secondary glaucoma. Ophthalmological examination showed BCVA RE-hand movement, left eye (LE)—0.08 with an intraocular pressure (IOP) of 30 mmHg in RE and 16 mmHg in LE. Biomicroscopic examination of RE showed corneal graft, epithelial and endothelial edema, endothelial precipitates, corneal neovascularization, aphakia, and Ahmed valve superotemporally. Despite maximal topical and systemic treatment, Ahmed valve, and trabeculectomy, secondary glaucoma in the right eye remained refractory. Reimplantation of an Ahmed valve was performed. This resulted in a favorable outcome with increased visual acuity and controlled intraocular pressure. The combination of aphakia, penetrating keratoplasty, and secondary glaucoma is a challenge for any surgeon. It is important that both the perioperative risks and the possible complications are carefully assessed in each patient, especially if associated pathology is present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glaucoma is a common and potentially blinding complication of uveitis. Many mechanisms are involved alone or in combination in the pathogenesis of uveitic glaucoma (UG). In terms of diagnostic evaluation, the effects of inflammatory activity in the retinal nerve fiber layer may be a source of bias in the interpretation of optical coherence tomography measurements. For the successful treatment of UG, the control of intraocular inflammation specific to the cause or anti-inflammatory treatment, combined with IOP management, is mandatory. The early institution of specific treatment improves the prognosis of UG associated with CMV. The young age of UG patients along with increased failure rates of glaucoma surgery in this group of patients warrants a stepwise approach. Conservative and conjunctival sparing surgical approaches should be adopted. Minimally invasive surgical approaches were proved to be effective and are increasingly being used in the management of UG along with the traditionally used techniques of trabeculectomy or tubes. This review aims to summarize the progress that recently occurred in the diagnosis and treatment of UG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The goal of this study is to assess the effectiveness of implantation of an Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) augmented with the use of mitomycin-C (MMC) and preserved amniotic membrane (AM), as a first line of intervention in cases of advanced primary congenital glaucoma (PCG). Patients and methods Prospective clinical and interventional trial was done on 30 eyes of 24 patients, aged between 6 months and 3 years, with advanced PCG at presentation. AGV (model FP8) implantation augmented with use of MMC and two layers of cryopreserved human AM as a primary intervention. Results At all-time intervals (at day 1, 1, 3, and 12 months following surgery), the postoperative intraocular pressures (IOPs) were significantly lower than the preoperative IOPs (16.83±2.78 mmHg at month 12 compared with a preoperative IOP of 38.29±4.23 mmHg). At all times, the postoperative corneal diameter was not noticeably smaller than the preoperative values (13.79±0.57 mm at month 12 compared with preoperative value of 13.93±0.58 mm). Conclusion AGV augmented with the use of MMC and AM can be considered as a secure and reliable approach for management of cases of advanced PCG, without additional risks compared with other techniques.

Aim The goal of this study is to assess the effectiveness of implantation of an Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) augmented with the use of mitomycin-C (MMC) and preserved amniotic membrane (AM), as a first line of intervention in cases of advanced primary congenital glaucoma (PCG). Patients and methods Prospective clinical and interventional trial was done on 30 eyes of 24 patients, aged between 6 months and 3 years, with advanced PCG at presentation. AGV (model FP8) implantation augmented with use of MMC and two layers of cryopreserved human AM as a primary intervention. Results At all-time intervals (at day 1, 1, 3, and 12 months following surgery), the postoperative intraocular pressures (IOPs) were significantly lower than the preoperative IOPs (16.83±2.78 mmHg at month 12 compared with a preoperative IOP of 38.29±4.23 mmHg). At all times, the postoperative corneal diameter was not noticeably smaller than the preoperative values (13.79±0.57 mm at month 12 compared with preoperative value of 13.93±0.58 mm). Conclusion AGV augmented with the use of MMC and AM can be considered as a secure and reliable approach for management of cases of advanced PCG, without additional risks compared with other techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study assessed the efficacy and safety of Ahmed valve implantation in patients with aniridic glaucoma for three consecutive years. Methods: Six adult patients (seven eyes) with Ahmed valve (AV) implants for aniridic glaucoma were enrolled in the study. The primary outcome measures were intraocular pressure reduction, glaucoma medication use, success rates, and visual acuity after AV implantation. A 30% reduction in IOP from baseline without the need for re-intervention was considered an effective treatment. The cessation of antiglaucoma medications was defined as complete success. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were included as secondary outcome measures. Measurements were performed preoperatively, at the first week, and 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, and 36 months postoperatively. Results: A total of seven eyes (6 patients) were evaluated 36 months after AV implantation. The mean ± SD values of IOP preoperatively at 1 day, 1 week, and 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, and 36 months postoperatively were 30.4 ± 4.0 mmHg, 14.6 ± 4.6 mmHg, 16.1 ± 4.6 mmHg, 20.7 ± 7.0 mmHg, 14.5 ± 2.7 mmHg, 16.5 ± 5.9 mmHg, 16.2 ± 4.0 mmHg, 16.3 ± 4.3 mmHg, 17.2 ± 10.1 mmHg, 17.6 ± 6.9 mmHg, and 18.2 ± 5.5 mmHg, respectively. At the last follow up, the mean IOP was reduced by 40.2%. The qualified success rate was 85.7%. One patient (one eye) at the last follow-up visit did not require antiglaucoma medications, resulting in a complete success rate of 14.3%. Intra- and postoperative mild or moderate subconjunctival bleeding was observed in all the patients. No other major/minor intraoperative or postoperative complications were noted. Conclusions: In long-term follow up, the AV implantation procedure is well-tolerated and relatively safe for reducing IOP in adult aniridia patients with glaucoma. These results should be validated through studies involving a larger patient cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glaucoma is one of the world’s leading causes of irreversible vision loss. It is often asymptomatic until it reaches an advanced stage, which can have a significant impact on patients’ daily lives. This paper describes the case of a 50-year-old female patient who presented with acute onset of ocular pain, photophobia, and loss of visual acuity in her right eye (RE). The patient’s medical history includes congenital cataracts, surgical aphakia, nystagmus, strabismus, amblyopia, and secondary glaucoma. Ophthalmological examination showed BCVA RE-hand movement, left eye (LE)—0.08 with an intraocular pressure (IOP) of 30 mmHg in RE and 16 mmHg in LE. Biomicroscopic examination of RE showed corneal graft, epithelial and endothelial edema, endothelial precipitates, corneal neovascularization, aphakia, and Ahmed valve superotemporally. Despite maximal topical and systemic treatment, Ahmed valve, and trabeculectomy, secondary glaucoma in the right eye remained refractory. Reimplantation of an Ahmed valve was performed. This resulted in a favorable outcome with increased visual acuity and controlled intraocular pressure. The combination of aphakia, penetrating keratoplasty, and secondary glaucoma is a challenge for any surgeon. It is important that both the perioperative risks and the possible complications are carefully assessed in each patient, especially if associated pathology is present.

Background: This study assessed the efficacy and safety of Ahmed valve implantation in patients with aniridic glaucoma for three consecutive years. Methods: Six adult patients (seven eyes) with Ahmed valve (AV) implants for aniridic glaucoma were enrolled in the study. The primary outcome measures were intraocular pressure reduction, glaucoma medication use, success rates, and visual acuity after AV implantation. A 30% reduction in IOP from baseline without the need for re-intervention was considered an effective treatment. The cessation of antiglaucoma medications was defined as complete success. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were included as secondary outcome measures. Measurements were performed preoperatively, at the first week, and 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, and 36 months postoperatively. Results: A total of seven eyes (6 patients) were evaluated 36 months after AV implantation. The mean ± SD values of IOP preoperatively at 1 day, 1 week, and 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, and 36 months postoperatively were 30.4 ± 4.0 mmHg, 14.6 ± 4.6 mmHg, 16.1 ± 4.6 mmHg, 20.7 ± 7.0 mmHg, 14.5 ± 2.7 mmHg, 16.5 ± 5.9 mmHg, 16.2 ± 4.0 mmHg, 16.3 ± 4.3 mmHg, 17.2 ± 10.1 mmHg, 17.6 ± 6.9 mmHg, and 18.2 ± 5.5 mmHg, respectively. At the last follow up, the mean IOP was reduced by 40.2%. The qualified success rate was 85.7%. One patient (one eye) at the last follow-up visit did not require antiglaucoma medications, resulting in a complete success rate of 14.3%. Intra- and postoperative mild or moderate subconjunctival bleeding was observed in all the patients. No other major/minor intraoperative or postoperative complications were noted. Conclusions: In long-term follow up, the AV implantation procedure is well-tolerated and relatively safe for reducing IOP in adult aniridia patients with glaucoma. These results should be validated through studies involving a larger patient cohort.

Background: Implantation of various drainage devices is one of the treatments for refractory glaucoma, resistant to traditional surgical methods. The most commonly used glaucoma drainage device for refractory glaucoma is the Ahmed glaucoma valve. However, the long-term success rate of the surgery may be limited because of the development of complications during the late postoperative period. The complications do not allow the control of the achieved intraocular pressure (IOP) level. In such cases, a repeated implantation of the Ahmed valve may be one of the options for the surgical treatment. Clinical case description: Second Ahmed valves were implanted to two patients with refractory repeatedly operated glaucoma at the Department of surgical glaucoma treatment of the S. Fyodorov Eye Microsurgery Federal State Institution in Moscow. Previously, both patients had the Ahmed valves installed at their places of residence. During the postoperative period, one patient was found to have an encapsulated cyst around the drainage body, and later the revision of the operation area was performed. As a result of the repeated Ahmed valve implantation, the IOP compensation was achieved 9 months after the surgery. Conclusion: A repeated implantation of the Ahmed valve may be an option for the surgical treatment, if the first implant failed to control the IOP, in order to compensate the IOP and preserve the visual functions in patients with refractory repeatedly operated glaucoma.

AIM: To investigate the therapeutic effect of conbercept injection combined with Ahmed valve implantation and phacoemulsification in the treatment of neovascular glaucoma(NVG).METHODS: Retrospective analysis. Totally 18 patients(18 eyes)with NVG complicated combined with cataract in our hospital from June 2018 to January 2020. All patients received intraocular injection of conbercept at 3-7d before surgery, Ahmed valve implantation and phacoemulsification were performed after meeting the surgical indications. Best corrected visual acuity(BCVA), intraocular pressure(IOP), resolution of iris neovascularization and postoperative complications were followed up after the surgery, and all the cases were followed up 12mo. RESULTS: Compared with preoperation(51.44±8.18 mmHg), IOP was significant decreased at 1, 7d, 1, 3, 6mo, 1a after surgery(25.94±11.82, 15.39±4.97, 15.94±2.69, 15.33±4.54, 18.89±7.95, 16.27±5.22 mmHg)(P

AIM: To compare intraluminal stenting and external ligation of Ahmed glaucoma valves (AGV) for refractory glaucoma management and postoperative hypotony prevention. METHODS: This randomized prospective blind study included 30 eyes of 25 patients (age range: 44-56y) with refractory glaucoma. This study was conducted from September 2018 to January 2020. The study included two groups, AGV with intraluminal stenting group (n=15 eyes) and AGV with external ligation group (n=15 eyes). Follow-up period was one year postoperatively. The primary outcome was intraocular pressure (IOP) and its association with the number of postoperative glaucoma medications. IOP?≤?21 mm Hg without medications indicated complete success while IOP?≤?21 mm Hg with medications indicated qualified success; and IOP

AIM: To describe and evaluate the efficacy of Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation (AGV) combined with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) in a single surgical act for the treatment of advanced neovascular glaucoma (NVG). METHODS: Retrospective observational case series included 51 eyes from 50 patients with severe NVG treated with PPV, AGV, and panretinal photocoagulation and/or cryotherapy in a single surgical act during a 13-year period (2005-2018). Preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative data at day 1 and months 1, 3, 6, 21, and 24 were systematically collected. Definition of surgical success was stablished at IOP between 6 and 21 mm Hg with or without topical treatment. RESULTS: Main indications for surgery were NVG secondary to proliferative diabetic retinopathy (39.2%) and central retinal vein occlusion (37.3%). Mean (±SD) preoperative IOP was 42.0±11.2 mm Hg decreasing to 15.5±7.1 mm Hg at 12mo and 15.8±9.1 mm Hg at 24mo of follow up. Cumulative incidence of success of IOP control was 76.0% at first postoperative month, reaching 88.3% at 6mo. Prevalence of successful IOP control at long term was 74.4% at 12mo and 71.4% at 24mo. Eye evisceration for unsuccessful NVG management was required in 1 case (2.0%). CONCLUSION: Combination of AGV implantation and PPV in a single act may be a suitable option for severe forms of NVG in a case-by-case basis for effective IOP control and a complete panretinal photocoagulation.

Ana Marta,1,2 João Coelho,1 Rita Vieira,1 Ana Figueiredo,1 Rita Reis,1 Isabel Sampaio,1 Maria João Menéres,1,2 Pedro Menéres1,2 1Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário do Porto, Oporto, Portugal; 2Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Oporto, PortugalCorrespondence: Ana MartaDepartment of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário do Porto, Largo do Prof. Abel Salazar, Porto, 4099-001, PortugalEmail analuisamarta2@gmail.comPurpose: To compare the predictability of biometric results in patients undergoing cataract surgery combined with Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation according to tube position.Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed in patients who underwent phacoemulsification surgery combined with AGV implantation with the tube in posterior (group PC) and anterior (group AC) chamber, between November 2012 and April 2020. The main outcome was the mean biometric prediction error, according to tube position, using different formulas.Results: The study included 49 eyes of 36 patients, 23 eyes in group PC and 26 eyes in group AC. Gender (p=0.774), age (p=0.822), type of glaucoma (p=0.168), preoperative correct distance visual acuity (p=0.139), axial length (p=0.765), anterior chamber depth (p=0.351), keratometry (p=0.577) and intraocular lens power (p=0.608) were similar between groups. Only preoperative intraocular pressure was higher in group PC (p=0.005). The mean prediction errors using Haigis, SRK/T, Hoffer Q, Holladay 1, Barrett Universal II, Kane and Hill RBF formulas were all positive in group PC (hyperopic) and all negative (myopic) in group AC. In group PC, there was no significant difference in prediction error between these formulas (p> 0.05). In group AC, the formula with the worst prediction error was Haigis (p=0.001), and the best was Barrett Universal II (p=0.043).Conclusion: The biometric predictability and expected final refraction in phacoemulsification surgery combined with AGV implantation are modified by the position of the tube.Keywords: glaucoma, Ahmed valve, cataract, phacoemulsification, biometry

Glaucoma is a vision threatening, not uncommon complication of eyes that have undergone pars plana vitrectomy with silicone oil endotamponade. Although most patients respond well to medical antiglaucoma therapy, there are refractory cases where surgery is required to control the intraocular pressure. This review, following a comprehensive literature search in the Medline database, aims to present the most important surgical techniques currently in use for glaucoma associated with silicone oil endotamponade and their indication depending on the mechanism of glaucoma. In cases of pupillary block, the presence of a patent iridotomy or iridectomy must be ensured, either by laser or surgically. When silicone oil is in excess and whenever the retinal status permits it, partial or complete removal of the silicone oil should be performed. Trabeculectomy has shown higher failure rates and more complications in these cases compared to other indications, so alternate methods are warranted. For very high intraocular pressures, glaucoma drainage devices and transscleral cyclophotocoagulation are the most used options, with good efficacy and safety profiles, although rarely they may have serious complications. The Ex-PRESS mini shunt has shown excellent results and lower rates of complications. For less important IOP elevations, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery and selective laser trabeculoplasty may be used, either alone or in conjunction with other methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neovascular glaucoma (NVG) resulting from ischemic insults caused by various diseases, such as proliferative diabetic retinopathy and central vein occlusion, remains a challenging situation. This case report aims to describe the complex management of NVG, resulting from diabetic retinopathy, to achieve the best visual outcome. A 47-year-old male presented with poor visual acuity of both eyes. His right eye was inoperable. Ahmed valve implantation with intraoperative intravitreal bevacizumab injection was performed in his left eye. Panretinal photocoagulation was performed serially after phacoemulsification. However, intraocular pressure was found to be raised, thus necessitating 5-fluorouracil needling bleb revision and administration of intracameral bevacizumab injection. During 15 months of follow-up we were able to achieve the best visual outcome possible in this patient. Comprehensive management of NVG should be implemented with a multidisciplinary approach.

AIM:To compare the efficacy of anti-VEGF combined with Ahmed valve implantation with phacoemulsification or not for neovascular glaucoma(NVG)with cataract. METHODS: Totally 47 patients(47 eyes)of NVG with cataract were given intraocular injection of anti-VEGF before the surgery, and then treated with Ahmed valve implantation. 19 cases(19 eyes)combined with phacoemulsification, and single Ahmed valve implantation in 28 cases(28 eyes). The vision, IOP, anti-glaucoma medicines and complications of the two groups were recorded and compared with 6mo postoperatively. RESULTS:The IOP of all cases at all time points after surgery was significantly decreased after surgery(P CONCLUSION: Compare with anti-VEGF with Ahmed vlave implantation, combined with phacoemulsification can effectively control the postoperative IOP, improve the BCVA of the patient as much as possible, reduce the amount of the postoperative glaucoma medicament use, and facilitate the follow-up of the fundus of the patient. It is a efficacy treatment for NVG with cataract.

Abstract Background To evaluate long-term results of eyes with glaucoma drainage device (GDD). Methods We retrospectively reviewed medical records of all patients who underwent GDD placement at our institution between 2001 and 2014. A total of 110 eyes of 90 patients were studied. Glaucoma outcome was assessed by postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP), number of medications, and need for further glaucoma surgery. Surgical procedures before and during the study period, and their complications were evaluated. Results The mean follow-up was 78.3 ± 44.0 months. The mean preoperative intraocular pressure was 30.8 ± 6.9 mmHg with 3.5 ± 1.1 glaucoma medications. At last postoperative follow-up, the mean IOP decreased to 14.3 ± 5.4 mmHg with 1.6 ± 1.5 glaucoma medications. GDD implantation successfully controlled glaucoma in 86, 85, 81, 78, 79, 76 and 73% of eyes at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 and 10 years, respectively. At last follow-up IOP was successfully controlled in 67% of eyes. Clinical complications occurred in 56.4% of eyes during the follow-up period. Conclusions A glaucoma drainage device can successfully control intractable glaucoma even after a very long period of time.

Glaucoma is a vision threatening, not uncommon complication of eyes that have undergone pars plana vitrectomy with silicone oil endotamponade. Although most patients respond well to medical antiglaucoma therapy, there are refractory cases where surgery is required to control the intraocular pressure. This review, following a comprehensive literature search in the Medline database, aims to present the most important surgical techniques currently in use for glaucoma associated with silicone oil endotamponade and their indication depending on the mechanism of glaucoma. In cases of pupillary block, the presence of a patent iridotomy or iridectomy must be ensured, either by laser or surgically. When silicone oil is in excess and whenever the retinal status permits it, partial or complete removal of the silicone oil should be performed. Trabeculectomy has shown higher failure rates and more complications in these cases compared to other indications, so alternate methods are warranted. For very high intraocular pressures, glaucoma drainage devices and transscleral cyclophotocoagulation are the most used options, with good efficacy and safety profiles, although rarely they may have serious complications. The Ex-PRESS mini shunt has shown excellent results and lower rates of complications. For less important IOP elevations, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery and selective laser trabeculoplasty may be used, either alone or in conjunction with other methods.

AIM: To estimate the efficacy and safety of the Ahmed implant in patients with high risk for failure after glaucoma surgery. METHODS: In 342 eyes of 342 patients with refractory glaucoma, even with application of medical treatment, the Ahmed valve was introduced for intraocular pressure (IOP) control, in the period of the last 20y. The nature of glaucoma was neovascular in 162 eyes, pseudophakic or aphakic in 49 eyes, inflammatory in 29 eyes and non working previous antiglaucomatic surgical interventions in 102 eyes. RESULTS: Follow-up ranged from 18 to 120mo with a mean follow-up of 63.2mo. IOP before the operation decreased from 31.6±10.4 mm Hg to 18.3±5.4 mm Hg (no systemic treatment) at the end of follow up period. When we compared the IOP values before the operation using ANOVA showed statistically significant difference (P

Purpose: To investigate the frequency of conjunctival erosions in a series of patients who underwent Ahmed valve implantation in a tertiary referral center and to study risk factors associated with the conjunctival erosions. Methods: This is a single-center, retrospective case-control study of all patients who underwent Ahmed valve implantation between October 2006 and July 2016 at the Kresge Eye Institute in Detroit, Michigan. The series consisted of 306 eyes (277 patients) that underwent Ahmed valve implantation. The rate of conjunctival erosions was determined. Univariate, bivariate, and Cox-proportional hazard analyses were performed to identify factors associated with conjunctival erosions. Results: During the study period, 23 erosions occurred in 306 eyes (7.52%). Aphakia was significantly more common in eyes with erosions (P < 0.05). Aphakia (P = 0.02), uveitic glaucoma (P = 0.03), and longer post-operative use of topical steroids (P < 0.04) significantly increased the risk of erosions based on the Cox model. There were similar rates of erosions with each type of patch graft. No conjunctival erosion was observed after using the modified scleral tunnel method (n = 10). Conclusions: The overall erosion rate was 7.52% in our series. Uveitic glaucoma, aphakia, and longer post-operative use of topical steroids were significantly associated with conjunctival erosions.

Neovascular glaucoma (NVG) resulting from ischemic insults caused by various diseases, such as proliferative diabetic retinopathy and central vein occlusion, remains a challenging situation. This case report aims to describe the complex management of NVG, resulting from diabetic retinopathy, to achieve the best visual outcome. A 47-year-old male presented with poor visual acuity of both eyes. His right eye was inoperable. Ahmed valve implantation with intraoperative intravitreal bevacizumab injection was performed in his left eye. Panretinal photocoagulation was performed serially after phacoemulsification. However, intraocular pressure was found to be raised, thus necessitating 5-fluorouracil needling bleb revision and administration of intracameral bevacizumab injection. During 15 months of follow-up we were able to achieve the best visual outcome possible in this patient. Comprehensive management of NVG should be implemented with a multidisciplinary approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Case Report: We report the case of a 29-year-old man who underwent Ahmed valve implantation in both eyes as treatment for uveitic glaucoma, subsequently presenting with bilateral ocular decompression retinopathy in the postoperative period. Discussion: Ocular decompression retinopathy is a rare complication of filtering surgery in patients with glaucoma; however, the course is benign in most cases, with spontaneous resolution of bleedings and improvement of visual acuity.

Purpose: To describe the histopathology of non-valved implant capsules in three cases of persistent postoperative hypotony after the restrictive tube ligature was released in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy. Observations: The macroscopic appearance of the capsules 3 and 4 months postoperatively was immature and loose. Microscopic examination disclosed extremely irregular thin tissue, with thicknesses ranging from 0.02 to 0.6 mm, depending on the capsular location studied. Withdrawal of immunosuppressive therapy did not facilitate rebuilding of new capsules. Replacement with a valved implant device was necessary in two cases; the third case recovered with tapering of prednisone. Conclusions and Importance: The use of chronic systemic immunosuppressive therapy might interfere with capsular formation around the plates of drainage devices inducing persistent hypotony. In these cases, the use of valved implants might be safer.

Aim. To compare the effectiveness of "Glautex" drainage and the Ahmed valve for the treatment of secondary neovascular glaucoma in patients with diabetes.Material and methods. We observed 28 eyes with neovascular glaucoma in 28 patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy. The mean age of patients was 56.61 ± 1.43 years (range: 40–65). There were 11 males and 17 females. Patients were divided into two groups based on the drainage device used. The first group included 13 patients (13 eyes) for whom "Glautex" drainage was used, while the second group included 15 patients for whom the Ahmed valve model FP7 (New World Medical Inc., USA) was used.Results. The absolute hypotensive effect [normalization of intraocular pressure (IOP) without the use of drugs] 1 year after surgery was 46.1% (6/13) in group I and 60% (9/15) in group II. The relative hypotensive effect (normalization of IOP during treatment with glaucoma drugs) 1 year after surgery was 53.8% (7/13) in group I and 80% (12/15) in group II. Hyphema in the early postoperative period was observed in 30.7% (4/13) and 26.6% (4/15) of patients in groups I and II, respectively. Hypotension with choroid detachment was observed in 23.1% (3/13) of group I patients and 13.3% (2/15) of group II patients. Migration of the tube to the scleral layers occurred after implantation of the Ahmed valve in 6.6% (1/15) of patients.Conclusion. Comparative analysis of the outcomes of surgical treatment of secondary neovascular glaucoma in patients with diabetes showed that the most effective method to lower IOP was implantation of an Ahmed valve. The valve preserved visual function during the 1-year follow-up period and resulted in failed outcomes in only 20% of patients. The hypotensive effect of sinus trabeculectomy was observed in 53.8% of patients with "Glautex" drainage. There was a progressive decrease in visual function and the need for reintervention in 46.1% of group 1 patients.

Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the fibrin glue use with Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation in refractory glaucoma. Patients and methods Twenty-two eyes of 22 patients diagnosed with refractory glaucoma were scheduled to receive an AGV and were grouped into two groups: group I included 12 eyes in which fibrin glue was used to secure the scleral flap and conjunctiva over the valve tube. Group II included 10 eyes in which sutures were used as the standard technique for valve implantation. Results The mean age of the patients was 29.5 ± 13.4 and 27.1 ± 10.3 years in groups I and II, respectively, and there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (P > 0.5). Congenital glaucoma was the most common preoperative diagnosis in each group. The surgical outcome of both groups showed a statistically significant reduction in the mean operation time in group I (37 ± 6 min) than in group II (43 ± 5 min) (P < 0.05). In addition, upper limbal inflammation was less in group I than in group II (17 and 40%, respectively), which was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Complete success was achieved in nine cases (75%) and qualified success was achieved in two cases (17%) in group I; in group II, complete success was achieved in eight cases (80%) and qualified success was achieved in one case (10%). There was no statistically significant difference between both groups in complete success and failure (P > 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the mean final intraocular pressure between the two groups (18.1 ± 2.2 and 17.4 ± 3.5 mmHg) in groups I and II, respectively (P > 0.05). The operative complications were hyphema, which occurred in one case in group I (8%) and in two cases in group II (20%). Suprachoroidal hemorrhage occurred in one case in group II. Shallow anterior chamber occurred in two cases (17%) in group I and in two cases (20%) in group II. One case in group I developed choroidal detachment. Tube exposure occurred in three cases, two cases in group I (17%), and one case (10%) in group II. Encysted valve occurred in three cases, two of which belonged to group I (17%) and one case belonged to group II (10%). Conclusion The use of fibrin glue with AGV implantation in refractory glaucoma makes its implantation easier, with a shorter operation time and less postoperative pain and inflammation, but its added cost usually limits its use. However, larger multicenter studies with longer-term follow-up are needed before the widespread use of this surgical technique.

Patients with advanced keratoconus are frequently managed with surgical procedures such as penetrating keratoplasty. This, in turn, requires postoperative pharmacological management that includes steroids and immunomodulators that must be controlled continuously to avoid secondary complications such as steroid-induced glaucoma. In the present case, an adaptation of scleral contact lenses is described in a patient with steroid-induced glaucoma treated with Ahmed valve, to report management and the most relevant clinical considerations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Purpose To analyze the surgical outcomes and complication rates in a group of patients with refractory glaucoma who underwent simultaneous pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and PC7 or PC8 Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation. Methods Retrospective case series study of 10 eyes in 9 patients with secondary glaucoma, refractory to other treatment, who underwent 23G-PPV and implantation of PC7 or PC8 AGV between 2012 and 2014. Study variables were postoperative BCVA, IOP and the number of glaucoma medications, which were evaluated preoperatively and at 1 day, 1 week and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the surgical intervention. Absolute success was defined as IOP less than 21 mmHg in the absence of any medication and qualified success if medication was needed to control IOP under 21 mmHg. Results The average follow-up was 10.2 ± 2.89 months. Postoperative IOP levels decreased in all cases in comparison with preoperative values (p < 0.05). Absolute success rate was 60%, reaching 100% in terms of qualified success. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed 60% absolute success at 12 months. Changes in postoperative BCVA were not statistically significant in comparison with preoperative data. Early postoperative complications were athalamia, hyphema, and retinal detachment; late complications were pars plana clip extrusion and cystic bleb. Conclusions PC7 and PC8 Ahmed valve implantation via pars plana is a safe and useful option in patients with secondary refractory glaucoma who are either candidates for PPV or have been previously vitrectomized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Case Report: We report the case of a 29-year-old man who underwent Ahmed valve implantation in both eyes as treatment for uveitic glaucoma, subsequently presenting with bilateral ocular decompression retinopathy in the postoperative period. Discussion: Ocular decompression retinopathy is a rare complication of filtering surgery in patients with glaucoma; however, the course is benign in most cases, with spontaneous resolution of bleedings and improvement of visual acuity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To describe the histopathology of non-valved implant capsules in three cases of persistent postoperative hypotony after the restrictive tube ligature was released in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy. Observations: The macroscopic appearance of the capsules 3 and 4 months postoperatively was immature and loose. Microscopic examination disclosed extremely irregular thin tissue, with thicknesses ranging from 0.02 to 0.6 mm, depending on the capsular location studied. Withdrawal of immunosuppressive therapy did not facilitate rebuilding of new capsules. Replacement with a valved implant device was necessary in two cases; the third case recovered with tapering of prednisone. Conclusions and Importance: The use of chronic systemic immunosuppressive therapy might interfere with capsular formation around the plates of drainage devices inducing persistent hypotony. In these cases, the use of valved implants might be safer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most glaucoma surgeries involve creating new aqueous outflow pathways with the use of a small surgical instrument. This article reported a microscope-integrated, real-time, high-speed, swept-source optical coherence tomography system (SS-OCT) with a 1310-nm light source for glaucoma surgery. A special mechanism was designed to produce an adjustable system suitable for use in surgery. A two-graphic processing unit architecture was used to speed up the data processing and real-time volumetric rendering. The position of the surgical instrument can be monitored and measured using the microscope and a grid-inserted image of the SSOCT. Finally, experiments were simulated to assess the effectiveness of this integrated system. Experimental results show that this system is a suitable positioning tool for glaucoma surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate intraoperative subtenon triamcinolone acetonide (TA) as an adjunct to Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation. Design: Retrospective comparative case series. Participants: Forty-two consecutive cases of uncontrolled glaucoma undergoing AGV implantation: 19 eyes receiving intraoperative subtenon TA and 23 eyes that did not receive TA. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed on consecutive pseudophakic adult patients with uncontrolled glaucoma undergoing AGV with and without intraoperative subtenon TA injection by a single surgeon. Clinical data were collected from 42 eyes and analyzed for the first 6 months after surgery. Main outcome measures: Primary outcomes included intraocular pressure (IOP) and number of glaucoma medications prior to and after AGV implantation. The hypertensive phase (HP) was defined as an IOP measurement of greater than 21 mmHg (with or without medications) during the 6-month postoperative period that was not a result of tube obstruction, retraction, or malfunction. Postoperative complications and visual acuity were analyzed as secondary outcome measures. Results: Five out of 19 (26%) TA cases and 12 out of 23 (52%) non-TA cases developed the HP (P=0.027). Mean IOP (14.2±4.6 in TA cases versus [vs] 14.7±5.0 mmHg in non-TA cases; P=0.78), and number of glaucoma medications needed (1.8±1.3 in TA cases vs 1.6±1.1 in the comparison group; P=0.65) were similar between both groups at 6 months. Although rates of serious complications did not differ between the groups (13% in the TA group vs 16% in the non-TA group), early tube erosion (n=1) and bacterial endophthalmitis (n=1) were noted with TA but not in the non-TA group. Conclusions: Subtenon TA injection during AGV implantation may decrease the occurrence of the HP but does not alter the ultimate IOP outcome and may pose increased risk of serious complications within the first 6 months of surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AimsTo report corneal endothelial cell loss and in vivo visualization of the Ahmed glaucoma valve implant in eyes with refractory glaucoma.MethodsTen eyes underwent Ahmed valve implant surgery and were followed-up for 12 months. Data collected included intraocular pressure (IOP), number of antiglaucoma medications and surgery-related complications. At 6 and 12 months postoperatively, the intracameral length of the drainage tube (ICL) and the distance between the tube and the cornea (T–C distance), and the iris (T–I distance) were assessed using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT). Heidelberg cornea tomograph II (HRT II) was used to measure the corneal endothelial cell density.ResultsMean (±SEM) preoperative IOP was 29.5±4 mmHg. Mean postoperative IOP was 11.6±2 at 12 months (P<0.01). Over a 6-month period, mean corneal endothelial loss was 7.9%±2.5 in the central and 7.5%±2.4 in the peripheral cornea (P<0.01). There was no correlation between central or peripheral corneal endothelial cell loss and the T–C, T–I distance or the ICL of the tube.ConclusionsCorneal endothelial cell loss occurs following Ahmed valve implant surgery, this appears to be multifactorial. AS-OCT and HRT II are promising methods for the follow-up of patients with a glaucoma drainage device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeTo evaluate the efficacy of Ahmed valve (AV) implantation in patients with uveitic glaucoma.MethodsIn total, 18 patients (19 eyes) with glaucoma secondary to chronic uveitis, who underwent AV implantation were retrospectively reviewed. Visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), and glaucoma medications at the most recent examination prior to surgery, were compared with those of last postoperative examination. The surgical success was defined as IOP less than 21 mmHg and greater than 4 mmHg without loss of light perception and visually devastating complications at the last postoperative examination. Decrease in the number of glaucoma medications was also a criterion for surgical success.ResultsThe mean follow-up period was 26±9.7 months. The mean preoperative and postoperative IOPs were 33.3±9.7 (range, 20–57) mmHg and 17.3±10.8 (range, 6–40) mmHg respectively (P<0.0001). The mean number of antiglaucoma medications was 3.5±0.8 (range, 2–5) preoperatively and 1.4±1.3 (range, 0–4) postoperatively (P<0.0001). Valve occlusion (five eyes, 26.3%) was the most commonly observed complication. Surgical success was achieved in 13 eyes (68.4%). The cumulative probability of success was 94.4% at 1 year and 60% at 2 years. Five eyes (26.3%) with IOP greater than 21 mmHg and one (5.3%) with corneal decompensation requiring penetrating keratoplasty were considered as failures.ConclusionsThe implantation of AV is an effective surgical procedure for the management of uveitic glaucoma. The inflammatory background might contribute to the occurrence of valve occlusion, which is the most common complication. Prevention of this complication is an essential factor for improving the surgical outcome.Eye (2006) 20, 178–183. doi:10.1038/sj.eye.6701841; published online 11 March 2005 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]