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Purpose: This study investigated the efficacy and safety of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in Korean patients with medically uncontrolled pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PEXG).Methods: This retrospective observational study enrolled 43 medically uncontrolled PEXG patients who underwent a 360° SLT and were followed up for at least 12 months after SLT. The intraocular pressure (IOP) before and after SLT at 1 week, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months was evaluated. Treatment success was defined as an IOP reduction of ≥20% from the baseline and an IOP equal to lower than 22 mmHg without additional anti-glaucomatous intervention. Additionally, every follow-up medical record was reviewed to assess any possible side effects of SLT.Results: Based on the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, the treatment success rate at 12 months after SLT was 41.9% (18 eyes). For the success group at the 12 months follow-up, SLT showed a mean IOP reduction of 10.3 ± 5.0 mmHg (from 25.6 ± 4.4 to 15.2 ± 2.9 mmHg; 39.3%, p < 0.05). Among the 25 eyes that were considered as the treatment failure group, 14 eyes underwent glaucoma filtering surgeries, four eyes received additional SLT, and further intervention and follow-up was refused for seven eyes. During the overall follow-up period, there were no significant adverse events.Conclusions: SLT is a partially effective and safe procedure for lowering IOP in Korean patients with medically refractory PEXG. Therefore, it can be considered as one of the alternative treatment modalities in patients who are at high risk for conventional filtering surgery.

PRCIS The multiplicity of treatment options for lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) is both a blessing and a challenge. Some attention to cost-analysis might assist in choosing an optimal therapy, especially in a cost-constrained, international setting. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to quantify and to analyze the relative cost of various glaucoma surgical procedures and selective laser trabeculoplasty surgery per mm Hg IOP reduction ($/mm Hg) since standard cost-utility methods are not well suited to the study of glaucoma which characteristically only claims visual acuity in its end stages. METHODS Published glaucoma treatment studies were reviewed to quantitate the reduction of mean IOP and glaucoma medications for a given treatment modality. A US perspective was adopted, using Medicare allowable costs were used to calculate a newly introduced parameter-cost per mm Hg IOP reduction-at 1 year postoperatively. RESULTS The cost per mm Hg IOP reduction after 1 year of treatment ranged from $190/mm Hg for trabeculectomy to $1376/mm Hg for iStent. For reference, the cost of selective later trabeculoplasty surgery was $121/mm Hg. After the first year, cost/mm Hg ranged from $12 to $61/mm Hg. CONCLUSIONS Conventional glaucoma surgeries and selective laser trabeculoplasty surgery were the most cost-efficient surgical methods to lower IOP compared with the various minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries options. They may be more appropriate management when cost is an important issue.

Purpose To identify systematic reviews of interventions for glaucoma conditions and to assess their reliability, thereby generating a list of potentially reliable reviews for updating glaucoma practice guidelines. Design Cross-sectional study. Participants Systematic reviews of interventions for glaucoma conditions. Methods We used a database of systematic reviews and meta-analyses in vision research and eye care maintained by the Cochrane Eyes and Vision United States Satellite. We examined all Cochrane systematic reviews of interventions for glaucoma conditions published before August 7, 2019, and all non-Cochrane systematic reviews of interventions for glaucoma conditions published between January 1, 2014, and August 7, 2019. Main Outcome Measures We assessed eligible reviews for reliability, extracted characteristics, and summarized key findings from reviews classified as reliable. Results Of the 4451 systematic reviews in eyes and vision identified, 129 met our eligibility criteria and were assessed for reliability. Of these, we classified 49 (38%) as reliable. We found open-angle glaucoma (22/49) to be the condition with the most reviews and medical management (17/49) and intraocular pressure (IOP; 43/49) to be the most common interventions and outcomes studied. Most reviews found a high degree of uncertainty in the evidence, which hinders the possibility of making strong recommendations in guidelines. These reviews found high-certainty evidence about a few topics: reducing IOP helps to prevent glaucoma and its progression, prostaglandin analogs are the most effective medical treatment for lowering IOP, laser trabeculoplasty is as effective as medical treatment as a first-line therapy in controlling IOP, the use of IOP-lowering medications in the perioperative or postoperative periods to accompany laser (e.g., trabeculoplasty) reduces the risk of postoperative IOP spikes, conventional surgery (i.e., trabeculectomy) is more effective than medications in reducing IOP, and antimetabolites and β-radiation improve IOP control after trabeculectomy. The evidence is weak regarding the effectiveness of minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries. Conclusions Most systematic reviews evaluating interventions for glaucoma are of poor reliability. Even among those that may be considered reliable, important limitations exist in the value of information because of the uncertainty of the evidence as well as small and sometimes unimportant clinical differences between interventions.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text., Précis: In eyes with trabeculoplasty response, those with lower baseline pressure, angle recession or uveitis had shorter survival. Eyes without medications before treatment remained medication-free for a median of 197 days. Purpose: We examined patients in a large clinical registry to assess factors associated with laser trabeculoplasty (LTP) response durations. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study with LTP patients in the Intelligent Research in Sight Registry. Data were extracted if the eye had a LTP procedure code and a glaucoma diagnosis. In responders [≥20% intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction], any post-LTP IOP that was above 80% of baseline was considered a failure event. Eyes were censored if IOP-lowering medication/procedure was added/performed, or if the eye reached the end of follow-up. First eye of bilaterally treated patients were included. Results: A total of 79,332 patients/eyes were included; 53.2% female; mean age 71.5 years; 64.5%White; 71.2% primary open angle glaucoma. Mean baseline IOP was 21.6±5.3 mm Hg (2.1±1.5 medications). Eyes with higher baseline IOP had longer survival (>24 mm Hg median 349 d; 18 to 24 mm Hg median 309 d

BACKGROUND We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pneumatic trabeculoplasty (PNT) and selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in the treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and ocular hypertension (OHT). MATERIAL AND METHODS We randomly divided 120 cases (120 eyes) of POAG or OHT into 2 groups: PNT and SLT. The changes in anterior chamber angle, intraocular pressure (IOP), treatment effect, macular retinal ganglion cell complex (GCC) thickness, visual field, adverse reactions, and complications were observed before and 3 months after treatment. RESULTS In the PNT group, the opening range of anterior chamber angle at 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months after surgery was significantly larger than that before surgery. In the SLT group, the open range of anterior chamber angle was significantly less than that before surgery at 1 week and 2 weeks after surgery. The open range of anterior chamber angle in the PNT group was significantly larger than that in the SLT group at 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months after surgery. The mean IOP of the 2 groups decreased significantly after surgery. The postoperative mean IOP of the SLT group was significantly higher than that of the PNT group, and the decrease of IOP in the PNT group was significantly greater than that of the SLT group. The effective rate of the PNT group was higher than that of the SLT group. CONCLUSIONS Both PNT and SLT can reduce the IOP of patients with POAG and OHT. PNT appears to have better short-term treatment efficiency than SLT.

PRéCIS:: The 24-hour ocular dimensional profile recorded by a contact lens sensor was affected by intraocular pressure lowering interventions. Among different treatments, incisional surgery had the most significant effect.We investigated the effect of different intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering interventions on contact lens sensor (CLS) parameters and their relationship with Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT)-measured IOP reduction.Data from reliable CLS recordings performed before and after IOP-lowering interventions were analyzed. Three interventions were evaluated: topical medications, laser trabeculoplasty, and incisional surgery. A set of 115 different CLS parameters were derived from 24-hour curves. We compared before versus after values for each parameter. In addition, linear regression was performed using the percentage change of each CLS parameter as the outcome variable and the type of IOP-lowering procedure as the predictor after adjusting age and race. Finally, we investigated the relationship between changes in CLS parameters and GAT IOP with the Spearman rank correlation coefficient.A total of 182 eyes of 182 patients were included in the analyses: 60 (33%) topical medications, 69 (38%) laser, and 53 (29%) surgery. The mean GAT IOP change was 3.6±6.5 mm Hg (P0.001). Overall, more CLS parameters had a significant change after surgery than in the other groups (surgerylaser=drug). Linear regression showed that, for 20 CLS parameters, surgery was the most predictive of greatest percentage change in CLS signals. In all, 11 (9.5%) of the CLS parameters were significantly correlated with GAT changes.Incisional glaucoma surgery had a more pronounced effect on GAT and CLS parameters than laser and drugs. The CLS can detect changes in patterns resulting from IOP-lowering interventions beyond daytime GAT IOP. This device could potentially be used to assess treatment efficacy in glaucoma.

Objective: To compare the outcomes of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) on treatmentnaive, primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) patients with those of SLT on patients previously treated medically and/or surgically. Secondary objectives: To establish whether age, race or gender influenced SLT outcomes. Design: A retrospective chart review of patients who received SLT therapy for POAG between June 2011 and January 2015. Subjects: Group A: Treatment-naive patients (n = 15). Group B: Prior medical therapy and/or prior surgery (n = 69). Methods: Group A: Patients were treated with SLT therapy as first line, with medical treatment added as needed. Group B: Patients were treated with SLT therapy as additional therapy to medication and/or surgery. All patients were followed up for at least 1 year. Main outcome measures: A reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) of at least 20% from baseline was considered significant. Results: The following percentage reduction in IOP was found in the different groups: Group A 50.7%, Group B 32.0%, Africans 52.2%, Indians 29.8% and Caucasians 28.87%. Conclusion: In our study patients, SLT achieved significant reductions in IOPs in treatmentnaive as well as previously surgically and medically treated eyes with POAG. Statistically significant higher reductions in IOP at 1 year after SLT was seen in treatment-naive eyes, patients older than 70 years when compared with younger patients, female patients (54%) when compared with male patients (30%) and in patients of African (52%) descent compared with Caucasians (30%).

OBJECTIVES To determine the effect of laser trabeculoplasty on peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer thickness (RNFL), fovea avascular zone (FAZ), peripapillary and macular vessel density (VD) in glaucoma using with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A). METHODS This was a prospective observational study performed at the Glaucoma Research Centre, Montchoisi Clinic, Lausanne, Switzerland. Thirty-seven eyes with primary open-angle glaucoma from 21 patients were included. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) scans were performed before laser trabeculoplasty and at 2 and 6 months after the procedure. AngioVue AngioAnalytic (Optovue Inc, Fremont, CA, USA) software was used to analyse the RNFL, FAZ, peripapillary and macular VD. Changes were analysed using mixed models, controlling for intraocular pressure (IOP) and signal strength index (SSI) variations. RESULTS Mean IOP decreased from 18.5 (±3.7) mmHg at baseline to 15.6 (±2.7) mmHg after 2 months (-15.3%; p

International audience; Le glaucome est une neuropathie optique cécitante dont le principal facteur de risque est l’augmentation de la pression intraoculaire (PIO). Le trabéculum, au niveau de l’angle iridocornéen, constitue la principale voie de drainage de l’humeur aqueuse (HA) hors de l’œil, et son dysfonctionnement est responsable d’une augmentation de la PIO. Le trabéculum est une structure tridimensionnelle fenêtrée complexe composée de cellules trabéculaires intriquées dans une organisation multicouche de matrice extracellulaire (MEC). L’objectif de cette revue de la littérature est de fournir un état des lieux de la connaissance sur le trabéculum et sa physiopathologie dans le glaucome. Ainsi, nous présenterons les bases anatomiques et cellulaires au centre de la régulation de la résistance à l’écoulement de l’HA, les mécanismes physiopathologiques d’altération trabéculaire impliqués dans les différents types de glaucomes, ainsi que les stratégies thérapeutiques existantes ou en développement ciblant le trabéculum.

To assess the effectiveness of topical ocular hypotensive medications in patients with open-angle glaucoma and to identify factors associated with postwashout intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation.Secondary analysis of prerandomization data from 2 prospective, multicenter, randomized clinical trials.Fourteen hundred subjects (1,400 eyes, 781 from the HORIZON study of the Hydrus micro-stent and 619 from the COMPASS study of the Cypass micro-stent) with primary open-angle glaucoma who were using 0-4 classes of topical IOP-lowering medication underwent Goldmann applanation tonometry before and after a protocol-defined washout period.The mean (standard deviation) age was 70.7 (8.0) years and 55.6% were female. The change in IOP following washout for patients using 0 (n = 100), 1 (n = 705), 2 (n = 355), 3 (n = 214), or 4 (n = 26) medications was 0.2 (2.8), 5.7 (3.3), 6.9 (3.7), 8.8 (5.0), and 9.5 (4.1) mm Hg, respectively (P.001, Kruskal-Wallis test). Postwashout IOP change was similar between the HORIZON and COMPASS cohorts. No difference in postwashout IOP change was detected among individual prostaglandin analogues in patients on monotherapy. A generalized linear model identified the following factors to be associated with greater IOP rise upon medication washout: greater number of glaucoma medications, higher unmedicated IOP, thinner central corneal thickness (CCT), lack of prior selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), and male sex.Cessation of glaucoma medications results in a dose-dependent IOP increase in treated open-angle glaucoma patients. Two independent clinical trial cohorts exhibit similar levels of IOP elevation upon washout, using standardized methodology to estimate real-world medication effectiveness. Thicker CCT and history of SLT may predict reduced response to IOP lowering medications.

To evaluate the effectiveness of a single session of micropulse laser trabeculoplasty (MLT) to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PEXG). In this single-center, one-arm, prospective study patients with PEXG under prostaglandine analogue monotherapy with inadequate IOP control were treated with 360° 532-nm MLT. Patients were evaluated at 1 day, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months post-MLT while they were treated with the same drug regimen as pre-MLT. Mean IOP reduction and percentage of IOP change during the follow-up were calculated. Cases that required any further intervention, like additional hypotensive medication, laser or surgical therapy, throughout the study period were considered failures and removed from the study. Twenty-seven eyes (27 patients, 17 male) were included in the study. The age of the patients was 72.37 ± 6.29 years and the baseline IOP was 20.41 ± 1.87 mmHg. Treatment with MLT resulted in significantly lower IOP at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after MLT compared to baseline (p

Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is the “golden standard” of laser glaucoma surgery. Its efficacy can be compared to pharmacological therapy, while in some cases its advantages may even lead to a more stable hypotensive effect. SLT may be used as a primary treatment for primary open-angle glaucoma patients and patients with ocular hypertension, while also considered safe and effective in cases when a repeat procedure is required. SLT may potentially decrease the demand for antiglaucoma drugs, improve patient’s response to treatment, make the treatment more comfortable and overall increase the patient’s quality of life. New modifications of standard laser treatment procedures have been emerging lately. This article summarizes scientific data on the efficacy and safety of the new generation of laser trabeculoplasty. It specifies the charateristics of micropulse laser trabeculoplasty (MLT), pattern-scanning trabeculoplasty (PLT) and titaniumsapphire laser trabeculoplasty (TSLT) and recounts the latest research dedicated to them.

Benjamin Abramowitz,1 Nisha Chadha,2 Amr Kouchouk,3 Rashed Alhabshan,4 David A Belyea,4 Tania Lamba4 1Glaucoma Department, Eye Consultants of Northern Virginia, Springfield, VA, USA; 2Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai/New York Eye and Ear, Eye and Vision Research Institute, New York, NY, USA; 3Cornea Department, Atlantis Eyecare, Torrance, CA, USA; 4Department of Ophthalmology, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA Aim: The aim of this study was to prospectively compare the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) vs micropulse laser trabeculoplasty (MLT) in reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) in open-angle glaucoma patients. Patients and methods: In all, 38 patients were randomized to 360° MLT and 31 patients were randomized to 360° SLT. IOP was measured at intervals of 1hour and 1, 1–6, 6–12, 6–24, 24–36, and 36–52weeks. Patients completed a survey 1week after the procedure. Patients with end-stage, neovascular, uveitic, or angle-closure glaucoma were excluded. Treatment response was defined as an IOP reduction of ≥20.0% or ≥3mmHg from baseline. Results: IOP was lowered to ≥3mmHg from baseline among 37.0% of the micropulse patients and 36.0% of patients in the selective laser group at 24–52weeks. Similarly, 29.6% of the micropulse patients and 36.0% of the selective laser patients experienced a 20.0% IOP decrease from baseline during the 24–52-week interval (P=0.77). Both groups revealed similar reductions in IOP as absolute values and percentage decreases from baseline at all intervals up to 52weeks post treatment. There were more treatment failures in the micropulse group up to 52weeks post laser treatment; however, this was not statistically significant. The micropulse group reported less pain both during and after the procedure (P=0.005). Conclusion: Micropulse trabeculoplasty has demonstrated similar efficacy to SLT over a 52-week follow-up period with less discomfort experienced both during and after the procedure. Keywords: randomized controlled trial, selective laser trabeculoplasty, micropulse, glaucoma, intraocular pressure

Argon laser trabeculoplasty as well as selective laser trabeculoplasty can be used in patients with exfoliation syndrome with similar safety and efficacy. However, treatment effect may abruptly reverse and patients need to be followed regularly to monitor intraocular pressure control. Newer laser treatment modalities including micropulse laser trabeculoplasty, titanium sapphire laser trabeculoplasty and pattern scanning trabeculoplasty show promising results but need to be studied in exfoliation patients. For exfoliation patients with angle closure, peripheral iridectomy, iridoplasty or cataract extraction can be very helpful. For refractory exfoliation glaucoma, transscleral diode laser cyclophotocoagulation offers a reasonable option to lower intraocular pressure. Other approaches to cyclophotocoagulation such as micropulse transcleral diode laser need to be studied further in exfoliation patients.

Objective Laser trabeculoplasty effectively reduces intraocular pressure (IOP) in primary open angle glaucoma, with argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT) and selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) showing equivalent outcomes. However, it is unclear which laser modality is more effective in pseudoexfoliation (PXE) glaucoma. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of ALT and SLT in PXE glaucoma. Design Retrospective cohort study. Methods A chart review evaluating patients diagnosed with PXE glaucoma and treated with laser trabeculoplasty from 2005-2015. Patients with previous glaucoma surgery, other forms of secondary glaucoma, ocular surgery within six months of initial trabeculoplasty or lacking preoperative IOP measurements were excluded. Post-laser measurements were recorded until 24 months after initial intervention. Follow-up data was censored if the patient underwent a subsequent trabeculoplasty different from initial laser treatment. Results We included 84 patients in the ALT group and 123 in the SLT group. The mean (SD) baseline IOP values were 22.7 (±5.6) and 21.6 (±4.8) respectively (p = 0.11), while number of medications were 2.0 (±1.0) and 1.8 (±1.3) for ALT and SLT groups respectively (p = 0.36). The mean IOP reduction for the ALT group at 6, 12 and 24 months were 5.2 (±6.1), 5.4 (±6.9), and 4.9(±7.7) respectively. The corresponding values for the SLT group were 3.4 (±5.2), 3.8 (±4.6), and 4.6 (±6.5). Comparison of both lasers at each time point revealed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in IOP reduction or reduction of glaucoma medication. Conclusions Our study showed equivalent efficacy between ALT and SLT in patients with PXE glaucoma.

Implementation of the micropulse technology in retinal laser therapy has led to the application of the method glaucoma treatment as well. Effectiveness of MicroPulse Laser Trabeculoplasty (MLT) is comparable to the previous ALT and SLT procedures. The therapy may be considered as first-line treatment or as a replacement or supplementation of the eye drop therapy.

Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) has been indicated as a safe and efficient treatment for primary open-angle glaucoma; however, recent studies have also shown positive results with the use of SLT in some clinical conditions related to primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG). Despite the potential benefits of SLT in selected cases of PACG, the mechanisms underlying the modifications in the trabecular meshwork tissue of patients with PACG are poorly understood. This narrative review approached both the current, limited knowledge about the histological changes observed in different forms of PACG and the clinical results of SLT treatment for PACG. Favourable outcomes of SLT in patients with PACG, specifically in areas of non-occluded angle, need further substantiation through large controlled clinical trials. A deeper understanding of the biomolecular changes of those areas is essential to improve both laser technical details and the clinical efficacy of SLT therapy.

Purpose To demonstrate disposable trabeculoplasty lens damage after routine selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) for primary open-angle glaucoma. Methods Disposable single-mirror laser lenses were used to perform SLT in 2 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma. Images of the single-use mirrors were taken before and after treatment. Results One lens showed heavy focal loss of reflectivity of its mirror with SLT settings of 0.8 to 0.9 mJ × 97 shots on a patient with a lightly pigmented angle. Aiming beam splashing or loss was noted after most shots. The second lens showed much less damage with 0.6 mJ × 90 shots in a heavily pigmented angle. Conclusion Although single-use Gonio lenses have gained popularity for their role in infection control and elimination of wear and tear of reusable lenses, our cases show that damage occurs to the silver mirror because of high laser fluence, interfering with proper aiming and possibly diminishing delivered energy and treatment efficacy.

Laser trabeculoplasty is one of the methods used to decrease intraocular pressure (IOP) as part of comprehensive glaucoma treatment. Argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT) and diode laser trabeculoplasty (DLT) are two of the most widely used laser trabeculoplasty techniques. The mechanism of its hypotensive action is based on the effect that laser emission photocoagulate has on trabecular meshwork and subsequent outflow facilitation, but the difference in wavelength and emission energy determine the difference in direct laser action and the features of postoperative clinical appearance. The efficacy of both methods has been verified in many studies; however, relatively few of them have made comparative analysis of the two techniques. The article reviews publications dedicated to comparing the efficacy of ALT and DLT, including their hypotensive effect, safety, as well as data on laser surgery tolerance and complications.Лазерная трабекулопластика - один из методов снижения уровня внутриглазного давления (ВГД), входящий в комплексное лечение глаукомы. Наиболее распространенными являются аргон-лазерная трабекулопластика (АЛТ) и диодная лазерная трабекулопластика (ДЛТ). Механизм их гипотензивного действия основан на фотокоагуляционном эффекте лазерного излучения при воздействии на трабекулу, что приводит к улучшению оттока. Однако разные длина волны и энергетическая мощность АЛТ и ДЛТ обусловливают различия в непосредственном действии лазера и клиническом течении раннего периода после манипуляции. Эффективность обоих методов подтверждена многочисленными исследованиями, но с практической точки зрения представляет интерес сравнительная характеристика их гипотензивного действия. В обзоре приведены результаты исследования не только сравнительной гипотензивной эффективности АЛТ и ДЛТ, но и безопасности этих методов, частоты и характера осложнений, особенностей переносимости процедур.

IMPORTANCE Monitoring the results of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) on intraocular pressure (IOP) using a home rebound tonometry. BACKGROUND To evaluate the role of Icare HOME tonometry in open-angle glaucoma patients being treated with SLT. DESIGN A clinic-based prospective case study. PARTICIPANTS Fourteen eyes from 14 patients diagnosed with primary open-angle glaucoma were recruited. METHODS The trabecular meshwork of each eye was treated 360° with a frequency-doubled Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. IOP was measured four times a day for a week before and after SLT. On the day of SLT, the patients were required to measure the IOP in the evening to record any IOP spikes. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The use of Icare HOME in following up patients post-laser trabeculoplasty without the need for clinic attendance. RESULTS Icare HOME recorded a significant reduction of 5.12 mmHg in the mean IOP post-SLT (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.75-6.50 mmHg, P

Introduction: Optical neuropathy with progressive loss of visual field, glaucoma represents the main cause of irreversible blindness. Objectives: To analyze the frequency of antiglaucomatous procedures performed by the Unified Health System (SUS), in the last 10 years, requiring hospitalization and outpatient care. Methods: This is a cross-sectional quantitative retrospective study, carried out through consultations and data analysis of antiglaucomatous procedures in the DATASUS system, between January 2010 and December 2019. Results: In Brazil, trabeculectomy was the most performed procedure in the last 10 years. Outpatient care had an average of 10,661 per year, on the other hand, the need for hospitalization increased by 70%. The second procedure that generated the most hospitalizations was the implantation of an anti-glaucomatous prosthesis, which doubled in the corresponding period. Cyclodialysis was the least used procedure in the 10 years of analysis, both on an outpatient and hospital basis, and is reserved for the final stages of glaucoma. Surgical iridectomy, used for acute treatment, showed a reduction, in 2019 it represented less than a third compared to 2010. As for outpatient procedures using lasers, such as phototrabeculoplasty and iridotomy, they showed significant growth. Conclusion: Trabeculectomy is considered the gold standard, justifying its greater frequency, both on an outpatient and hospital basis. Procedures using laser are expanding, trabeculoplasty as an alternative to primary therapy, and iridotomy for greater safety in acute treatment. As the population ages, glaucoma tends to be increasingly prevalent, contributing to the progressive increase in trabeculectomies.

Copyright 2020 The Authors iovs.arvojournals.org. PURPOSE. To evaluate the short-term changes in inner retinal function using the photopic negative response (PhNR) after intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction in glaucoma. METHODS. Forty-seven participants with glaucoma who were commencing a new or additional IOP-lowering therapy (treatment group) and 39 participants with stable glaucoma (control group) were recruited. IOP, visual field, retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, and electroretinograms (ERGs) were recorded at baseline and at a follow-up visit (3 ± 2 months). An optimized protocol developed for a portable ERG device was used to record the PhNR. The PhNR saturated amplitude (Vmax), Vmax ratio, semi-saturation constant (K), and slope of the Naka–Rushton function were analyzed. RESULTS. A significant percentage reduction in IOP was observed in the treatment group (28 ± 3%) compared to the control group (2 ± 3%; P < 0.0001). For PhNR Vmax, there was no significant interaction (F1,83 = 2.099, P = 0.15), but there was a significant difference between the two time points (F1,83 = 5.689, P = 0.019). Post hoc analysis showed a significant difference between baseline and 3 months in the treatment group (mean difference, 1.23 μV; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.24–2.22) but not in the control group (0.30 μV; 95% CI, 0.78–1.38). K and slope were not significantly different in either group. Improvement beyond test–retest variability was seen in 17% of participants in the treatment group compared to 3% in the control group (P = 0.007, χ2 test). CONCLUSIONS. The optimized protocol for measuring the PhNR detected short-term improvements in a proportion of participants following IOP reduction, although the majority showed no change.

AIM: To assess the efficacy and safety of patterned laser trabeculoplasty (PLT) as an adjunctive treatment in open angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension (OHT) patients who were under antiglaucoma medical treatment. METHODS: This study was a retrospective review of primary or secondary OAG patients and OHT patients with medically uncontrolled (≥18 mm Hg) intraocular pressure (IOP) who underwent 360º PLT from June 2016 to August 2016. Follow-up visits at week 1, and 1, 3 and 6mo were performed. IOP, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), complications and eye drop glaucoma medication were recorded at each follow-up visit. Success was defined as IOP reduction ≥20% from baseline. RESULTS: Forty-one eyes of 25 patients were included in this study. Pre-treatment mean IOP was 20.2±1.6 mm Hg. After PLT, IOP was 19.3±5.2, 16.1±2.7, 17.1±3.7 and 16.3±3.5 mm Hg, at 1wk, 1, 3 and 6mo, respectively. IOP reduction from baseline was statistically significant from the first month, remaining stable at 6mo (P

Laser trabeculoplasty has an increasing important role in the management of glaucoma as more emphasis is placed on minimally invasive therapies. In recent years, the following laser trabeculoplasty technologies have been introduced: micropulse laser trabeculoplasty, titanium-sapphire laser trabeculoplasty and pattern scanning trabeculoplasty. These lasers help to reduce the intraocular pressure (IOP) and the burden of glaucoma medical therapy. Literature findings regarding the safety and efficacy of these newer forms of laser trabeculoplasty in the treatment of open-angle glaucoma is summarised. These relatively newer procedures appear to have similar efficacy when compared with the former selective laser trabeculoplasty or argon laser trabeculoplasty. In addition, they potentially offer a more favourable safety profile with fewer complications, including postlaser inflammation and IOP spikes. Further large-scale studies are necessary to evaluate the long-term benefits of these newer forms of laser trabeculoplasty. Their initial promising results offer patients with glaucoma additional treatment alternatives.

Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is an effective and safe procedure to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in the management of open-angle glaucoma. The post-laser inflammatory reaction could be positively implicated in SLT efficacy and the relevance of postoperative use of topical anti-inflammatory remains controversial. The goal of this study is to determine the effect of various anti-inflammatory treatments on intraocular pressure and on side effects following SLT.A prospective, randomized, double-blind study with a control group was conducted. Ninety-six eyes of 67 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma who underwent SLT were enrolled in this study between March 2009 and March 2012. Eyes recruited in the study were randomized to receive either prednisolone acetate 1%, diclofenac 0.1% or a placebo. The 3 treatments were administered 4 times a day for 5 days following SLT. The intraocular pressures were measured at regular intervals during the 6-months follow-up period. Side effects were also evaluated with a questionnaire as well as with the ocular exam.The analysis of the relative IOP decrease over the 6-months period revealed a significant difference between the time points of follow-up (P0.0001), but no group effect (P=0.2980). No significant difference regarding anterior chamber inflammation and discomfort was observed between the 3 groups.There was no difference in intraocular pressure reduction, intraocular inflammation or ocular discomfort post-SLT when comparing the 3 treatment modalities.

Background: We report the effect of micropulse laser trabeculoplasty (MLT) in the intraocular pressure (IOP) of patients with uncontrolled open-angle glaucoma (OAG). Materials and Methods: In this retrospective review, 30 eyes with OAG were treated with a single session of MLT at the Vista Clinic in Lima Peru. We used a 532 nm frequency doubled Nd: YAG laser to 360 degrees of the trabecular meshwork with a power of 1000 mW, 15% of the duty cycle, and 300 ms of exposure. The IOP was measured at baseline and at 1 day, 1 week, 3 months, and 6 months post-treatment and were followed up for one last control. Results: The mean baseline IOP was 15.6 mmHg and in the last control was 12.8 mmHg, mean follow-up time of 19 months (+/-10 standard deviation [SD]). The mean reduction of IOP in the 1(st) day was 1.6 mmHg (+/-2.6 SD) and 1.2 mmHg (+/-3.3 SD) in the last follow-up. The mean percentage of IOP reduction was 17.9% and 7 eyes (40%) had IOP reduction >20%. No statistical significant difference in relation to demographic characteristics of the patients. The greatest reduction was achieved in the 1(st) day with a median of 2.00 (P < 0.001). A tendency to achieve a higher reduction of IOP in patients with higher baseline IOP was found but was not statistically significant. No adverse reactions occurred. Conclusions: MLT slightly reduced the IOP in a few patients with uncontrolled OAG for a very short time and may not be suitable for these patients.

Patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) whose intraocular pressure is not adequately controlled by one medication have several treatment options in the US. This analysis evaluated direct costs of unilateral eye treatment with two trabecular micro-bypass stents (two iStents) compared to selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) or medications only.A population-based, annual state-transition, probabilistic, cost-of-care model was used to assess OAG-related costs over 5 years. Patients were modeled to initiate treatment in year zero with two iStents, SLT, or medications only. In years 1-5, patients could remain on initial treatment or move to another treatment option(s), or filtration surgery. Treatment strategy change probabilities were identified by a clinician panel. Direct costs were included for drugs, procedures, and complications.The projected average cumulative cost at 5 years was lower in the two-stent treatment arm ($4,420) compared to the SLT arm ($4,730) or medications-only arm ($6,217). Initial year-zero costs were higher with two iStents ($2,810) than with SLT ($842) or medications only ($996). Average marginal annual costs in years 1-5 were $322 for two iStents, $777 for SLT, and $1,044 for medications only. The cumulative cost differences between two iStents vs SLT or medications only decreased over time, with breakeven by 5 or 3 years post-initiation, respectively. By year 5, cumulative savings with two iStents over SLT or medications only was $309 or $1,797, respectively.This analysis relies on clinical expert panel opinion and would benefit from real-world evidence on use of multiple procedures and treatment switching after two-stent treatment, SLT, or polypharmaceutical initial approaches.Despite higher costs in year zero, annual costs thereafter were lowest in the two-stent treatment arm. Two-stent treatment may reduce OAG-related health resource use, leading to direct savings, especially over medications only or at longer time horizons.

The main objectives of glaucoma treatment are normalization of IOP and slowing of the progression of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. They are achieved using conservative (medicated), surgical and laser methods.To study the effectiveness of non-penetrating hypotensive laser sclerotomy (NHLS) in patients with non-stabilized primary open-angle (I-III) b glaucoma with previous laser trabeculoplasty and who are receiving drug therapy.The study included 54 patients (102 eyes) with initial (38 eyes), developed (46 eyes) and advanced (18 eyes) glaucoma who were examined and operated on. 26 patients (46 eyes) were instilled a combined drug containing brinzolamide and timolol, 28 patients (56 eyes) received prostaglandin F2α analogues (PGA). Intraocular pressure (IOP) levels were 27±2.4 mm Hg.Reduction of IOP was observed in 89% of patients 2 weeks after NHLS with gradual improvement during the first 3 months of the follow-up; in 71% of patients the results preserved by the 6Non-penetrating hypotensive laser sclerotomy (NHLS) allows measured reduction of IOP in various glaucoma stages achieving controlled and persistent hypotensive effect. In the group of patients receiving combination of brinzolamide and timolol, the effect is statistically significant and clinically superior when compared with patients receiving PGA.Главными задачами лечения глаукомы являются нормализация уровня внутриглазного давления (ВГД) и замедление прогрессирования глаукомной оптической нейропатии. Пути решения этих задач — консервативный (медикаментозный), хирургический и лазерный методы.Изучить эффективность непроникающей гипотензивной лазерной склеротомии (НГЛС) у больных с нестабилизированной первичной открытоугольной (I—III) b глаукомой с ранее проведенной лазерной трабекулопластикой, находящихся на медикаментозной терапии.Обследовано и прооперированно 54 пациента (102 глаза) с начальной (38 глаз), развитой (46 глаз) и далекозашедшей (18 глаз) стадиями глаукомы. Из них 26 пациентам (46 глаз) инстиллировали комбинацию бринзоламид + тимолол, 28 пациентам (56 глаз) — аналоги простагландина FСнижение показателей ВГД наблюдалось у 89% больных через 2 нед после НГЛС с постепенным нарастанием эффекта к 3-му месяцу наблюдений и сохранением полученного результата до 6 мес у 71%. У пациентов, находящихся на медикаментозной терапии с использованием комбинации бринзоламид + тимолол после проведения НГЛС, снижение уровня ВГД было достоверно более выражено — на 2,4±1,8 мм рт.ст. в первые 3 мес. К концу срока наблюдения показатели офтальмотонуса оставались в пределах нормы, у 16 пациентов (21 глаз, 20,6%) медикаментозная терапия не применялась, у 32 человек (67 глаз, 65,7%) нормализации офтальмотонуса удалось добиться в сочетании с гипотензивной терапией, 9 пациентов (9 глаз, 8,8%) направлены на хирургическое лечение.НГЛС позволяет дозированно снижать уровень ВГД при различных стадиях глаукомы с достижением контролируемого и стойкого гипотензивного эффекта. В группе пациентов, применяющих комбинацию бринзоламида и тимолола, возникает статистически достоверный и клинически превосходящий эффект по сравнению с результатом в группе пациентов, получающих АПГ.

Purpose: The aim of this study is to compare the reduction percent of intraocular pressure (IOP) after selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) or pattern laser scanning trabeculoplasty (PSLT) in a group of patients with hypertensive glaucoma. Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental prospective study of the patients with baseline IOP of 20 mmHg or more (with at least 1 IOP lowering medication) underwent either PSLT or SLT at 360°. IOP was measured in the following time points: Hour 1, Day 1 and 7, months 1, 3, 6, and 12 after the laser procedure. Results: The mean age was 68.1 ± 10.1 in the PSLT group and 71.8 ± 4.0 in the SLT group. Eleven eyes (8 patients) underwent PSLT and 9 eyes (6 patients) underwent SLT. Baseline IOP was 22.45 ± 2.4 mmHg, PSLT; 25.0 ± 2.2 mmHg, SLT; (P > 0.05) on an average of 2.4 medications. In the PSLT group, the mean IOP at 1 h, 1, 3, 6 and 12 months was 19.0 ± 5.0, 14.7 ± 2.4, 15.3 ± 3.0, 14.5 ± 2.7, and 13.0 ± 3.1, respectively. In the SLT group, the mean IOP at 1 h, 1, 3, 6 and 12 months was 25.6 ± 6.4, 15.9 ± 4.4, 15.3 ± 2.6, 16.7 ± 4.8, and 21.2 ± 4.3, respectively. IOP was significantly lower in the PSLT group compared to the SLT group at 1 h (P < 0.01) and 12 months (P < 0.01). No serious adverse events were recorded. Conclusions: PSLT was similar in effect compared to SLT at 1, 3, 6 months, and more effective than SLT at 12 months.

This review paper sets out to evaluate the evidence for different modalities as first-line treatments for primary open-angle glaucoma. In current practice, initial treatment is commonly with medical therapy, whereas laser, or incisional surgery, is performed if medical therapy does not satisfactorily reduce initial intra-ocular pressure and/or prevent visual field progression. However, medical therapy is not without adverse effects, and poor compliance with treatment means that in some cases another primary therapy might be preferable. Glaucoma is a common, chronic disease requiring life-long care in order to prevent progressive optic nerve head atrophy and blindness. Demographic changes in the developed world are resulting in a growing treated population: issues concerning acceptability, efficiency and cost–effectiveness of initial glaucoma treatment will become increasingly important.

Introduction To determine whether there is a statistically significant difference in the decrease in intraocular pressure (IOP) after selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) between patients receiving a 5–7 days co-administration of loteprednol versus no loteprednol over the course of 1 year. Methods We conducted a retrospective chart review to evaluate use of loteprednol in patients aged 30–85 years undergoing SLT for open-angle glaucoma at our center over a 3-year period. Results Three hundred and eighteen eyes from 313 patients who underwent a 360° SLT treatment between January 2008 and August 2011 were included in the analysis. Patients who received loteprednol showed a mean reduction of 2.5 (±SE 0.3) mmHg or 11.8% (±1.5%) in IOP versus a mean reduction of 3.2 (±0.6) mmHg or 14.9% (±2.5%) in those not treated with loteprednol. This difference showed a trend toward lower IOP without loteprednol, but this was not statistically significant (p = 0.29). Conclusion Postoperative use of loteprednol does not appear to significantly affect IOP in patients undergoing SLT. A randomized double-blinded study in a larger group of patients would be required to clarify this issue. Until such information is available, we recommend that individual clinical judgment be used regarding whether to use topical steroids in patients undergoing SLT.

To evaluate the efficacy of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), normal tension glaucoma (NTG) or ocular hypertension (OHT), when performed with laser pulse duration of 1 ns compared with standard 3–5 ns. Bilateral SLT with a 532 nm Q-switched neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet laser was conducted in 30 patients (60 eyes) with POAG (n = 5), NTG (n = 2) or OHT (n = 23). Pulse duration was 1 ns in the right eye (30 eyes; cases) and 3–5 ns in all left eyes (controls). Main outcome measures were IOP at 1 h, 1 day, 8 weeks and 6 months, and the rate of adverse ocular tissue reactions in all eyes. Mean 1 ns and 3–5 ns SLT IOPs were 24.1 and 24.3 mmHg, respectively, at baseline. No statistically significant difference in mean 1 ns and 3–5 ns SLT IOP was observed at 1 h (P = 0.761), 1 day (P = 0.758), 8 weeks (P = 0.352) and 6 months postoperatively (P = 0.879). No significant difference in postoperative anterior chamber inflammation was observed between the eyes (P = 0.529). Treatment with both laser pulse durations resulted in minor ultrastructural changes in the drainage angle. SLT performed with a 1 ns laser pulse duration does not appear to be inferior to SLT performed with the standard 3–5 ns duration at lowering IOP in treatment-naive patients with POAG, NTG or OHT.

Background To analyze the results of repeat selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT). Methods Inclusion criteria: participants with primary or secondary open-angle glaucoma (excluding uveitic) who had undergone SLT 360° (SLT 1) with diminution of response over time followed by repeat SLT 360° (SLT 2). Six months of follow-up were required and at least 6 months in between SLT 1 and 2. The main outcome measures were IOP reduction at 6 and 12 months and a comparison of the response between SLT 1 and 2. Results One hundred thirty-seven patients met the inclusion criteria. If only one eye had repeat treatment, that eye was chosen; if both eyes qualified, one was chosen at random. The baseline intraocular pressure (IOP) for SLT 1 = 20.3+/− 5.2 mmHg and SLT 2 = 19.4 +/− 5.0 was reduced to 16.4 +/− 3.9 and 16.7 +/− 4.7 at 1 year, respectively (p

To investigate the presence of corneal alterations in the long term among patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) after a single session of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) treatment. The files of the POAG patients who had been treated with SLT were evaluated retrospectively. The Pretreatment Scheimpflug corneal topographic (SCT) findings were then compared with the post-treatment findings. The files of 33 patients were eligible. The changes in central corneal thickness, thinnest point of cornea, and posterior corneal asphericity at 5 and 8 mm were statistically significant (p = 0.03, 0.01, 0.02, and 0.04 respectively). On the other hand, the simulated K, anterior 3 mm K, anterior 5 mm K, posterior 3 mm K, posterior 5 mm K, anterior asphericity at 3 mm, posterior asphericity at 3 mm, and Zernike values did not change significantly following the treatment (p = 0.19, 0.08, 0.1, 0.3, 0.2, 0.75, 0.09, and 0.3 respectively). SLT can slightly alter pretreatment SCT findings in 3–6 months. Clinicians should wait for at least 6 months after SLT before performing any subsequent surgeries that depend on corneal parameters.

Developing a one-second automatic glaucoma treatment using trans-scleral laser trabeculoplasty (LTP) without a gonioscopy lens Purpose: Developing an LTP device for delivering multiple simultaneous trans-scleral applications of low energy laser irradiation to the trabecular meshwork (TM) for reducing Intraocular Pressure (IOP). Methods: Concept proof: A randomized, masked, controlled one was performed on open angle glaucoma patients. The control group underwent conventional SLT (100 laser spots through a gonioscope for 360 degrees directly on the TM). The trial group underwent irradiation by the same laser at the same irradiation parameters on the sclera overlying the TM. Topical glaucoma therapy was not changed during the 12 months trial. Feasibility trial: Using optimized laser parameters, 60 discrete applications were administered on similar locations of patients’ sclera. Results: Concept proof: Trans-scleral applications: (N=15), IOP decrease from 20.21 mmHg before treatment to 16.00 (27.1%) at one year. The corresponding numbers for the control group (n=15), were 21.14 mmHg and 14.30 (23.4%). There was no statistical difference between the two groups in IOP reduction. The complications rate was significantly higher in the control group. Trial 2: IOP was reduced from an of 25.3 mmHg to 19.3 (23.7%) in the 11 patients. Conclusions: Laser coherency, lost in tissue transmission, is not required for the therapeutic effect. The new method will possibly enable treatment of angle closure glaucoma as well as simultaneous applications of all laser spots to the sclera. When used conjointly with target acquisition, will make feasible an automatic glaucoma treatment in less than one second.

Background Glaucoma is a chronic optic neuropathy characterized by retinal ganglion cell death resulting in damage to the optic nerve head and the retinal nerve fiber layer. Pigment dispersion syndrome is characterized by a structural disturbance in the iris pigment epithelium (the densely pigmented posterior surface of the iris) that leads to dispersion of the pigment and its deposition on various structures within the eye. Pigmentary glaucoma is a specific form of open-angle glaucoma found in patients with pigment dispersion syndrome. Topcial medical therapy is usually the first-line treatment; however, peripheral laser iridotomy has been proposed as an alternate treatment. Peripheral laser iridotomy involves creating an opening in the iris tissue to allow drainage of fluid from the posterior chamber to the anterior chamber and vice versa. Equalizing the pressure within the eye may help to alleviate the friction that leads to pigment dispersion and prevent visual field deterioration. However, the effectiveness of peripheral laser iridotomy in reducing the development or progression of pigmentary glaucoma is unknown. Objectives The objective of this review was to assess the effects of peripheral laser iridotomy compared with other interventions, including medication, trabeculoplasty, and trabeculectomy, or no treatment, for pigment dispersion syndrome and pigmentary glaucoma. Search methods We searched a number of electronic databases including CENTRAL, MEDLINE and EMBASE and clinical trials websites such as (mRCT) and ClinicalTrials.gov. We last searched the electronic databases on 2 November 2015. Selection criteria We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that had compared peripheral laser iridotomy versus no treatment or other treatments for pigment dispersion syndrome and pigmentary glaucoma. Data collection and analysis We used standard methodological procedures for systematic reviews. Two review authors independently screened articles for eligibility, extracted data, and assessed included trials for risk of bias. We did not perform a meta-analysis because of variability in reporting and follow-up intervals for primary and secondary outcomes of interest. Main results We included five RCTs (260 eyes of 195 participants) comparing yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) laser iridotomy versus no laser iridotomy. Three trials included participants with pigmentary glaucoma at baseline, and two trials enrolled participants with pigment dispersion syndrome. Only two trials reported the country of enrollment: one - Italy, the other - United Kingdom. Overall, we assessed trials as having high or unclear risk of bias owing to incomplete or missing data and selective outcome reporting. Data on visual fields were available for one of three trials that included participants with pigmentary glaucoma at baseline. At an average follow-up of 28 months, the risk of progression of visual field damage was uncertain when comparing laser iridotomy with no iridotomy (risk ratio (RR) 1.00, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.16 to 6.25; 32 eyes; very low-quality evidence). The two trials that enrolled participants with pigment dispersion syndrome at baseline reported the proportion of participants with onset of glaucomatous visual field changes during the study period. At three-year follow-up, one trial reported that the risk ratio for conversion to glaucoma was 2.72 (95% CI 0.76 to 9.68; 42 eyes; very low-quality evidence). At 10-year follow-up, the other trial reported that no eye showed visual field progression. One trial reported the mean change in intraocular pressure (IOP) in eyes with pigmentary glaucoma: At an average of nine months of follow-up, the mean difference in IOP between groups was 2.69 mmHg less in the laser iridotomy group than in the control group (95% CI -6.05 to 0.67; 14 eyes; very low-quality evidence). This trial also reported the mean change in anterior chamber depth at an average of nine months of follow-up and reported no meaningful differences between groups (mean difference 0.04 mm, 95% CI -0.07 to 0.15; 14 eyes; very low-quality evidence). No other trial reported mean change in anterior chamber depth. Two trials reported greater flattening of iris configuration in the laser iridotomy group than in the control group among eyes with pigmentary glaucoma; however, investigators provided insufficient data for analysis. No trial reported data related to mean visual acuity, aqueous melanin granules, costs, or quality of life outcomes. Two trials assessed the need for additional treatment for control of IOP. One trial that enrolled participants with pigmentary glaucoma reported that more eyes in the laser iridotomy group required additional treatment between six and 23 months of follow-up than eyes in the control group (RR 1.73, 95% CI 1.08 to 2.75; 46 eyes); however, the other trial enrolled participants with pigment dispersion syndrome and indicated that the difference between groups at three-year follow-up was uncertain (RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.38 to 2.17; 105 eyes). We graded the certainty of evidence for this outcome as very low. Two trials reported that no serious adverse events were observed in either group among eyes with pigment dispersion syndrome. Mild adverse events included postoperative inflammation; two participants required cataract surgery (at 18 and 34 months after baseline), and two participants required a repeat iridotomy. Authors' conclusions We found insufficient evidence of high quality on the effectiveness of peripheral iridotomy for pigmentary glaucoma or pigment dispersion syndrome. Although adverse events associated with peripheral iridotomy may be minimal, the long-term effects on visual function and other patient-important outcomes have not been established. Future research on this topic should focus on outcomes that are important to patients and the optimal timing of treatment in the disease process (eg, pigment dispersion syndrome with normal IOP, pigment dispersion syndrome with established ocular hypertension, pigmentary glaucoma).

This review highlights recently published studies on prevailing and newer laser therapies in glaucoma and critically evaluates their roles in the treatment algorithm.Recently published studies suggest a role for selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) as initial therapy for open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension and have demonstrated efficacy in other glaucoma subtypes. Novel laser applications (micropulse diode laser trabeculoplasty, titanium sapphire laser trabeculoplasty and excimer laser trabeculotomy) have shown favorable early results. Endoscopic and transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (ECP, TCP) are generally reserved for refractory glaucomas, although some recent studies report its use in patients with good visual acuity. The effectiveness of laser iridotomy with or without iridoplasty for long-term prevention of primary angle closure glaucoma is undetermined. Laser goniopuncture is an important adjunct to nonpenetrating surgery, but wide adoption of the procedure is lacking.The use of lasers in glaucoma continues to evolve, with a trend towards primary and earlier intervention. SLT is assuming an expanded role in the treatment of additional subtypes of glaucoma, whereas ECP and TCP are generally reserved for refractory glaucomas. Newer laser modalities show promise as alternatives and adjuncts to topical medications and nonpenetrating surgery. Additional research is needed to better define their safety and efficacy.

Objective To provide an evidence-based summary of the outcomes, repeatability, and safety of laser trabeculoplasty for open-angle glaucoma. Methods A search of the peer-reviewed literature in the PubMed and the Cochrane Library databases was conducted in June 2008 and was last repeated in March 2010 with no date or language restrictions. The search yielded 637 unique citations, of which 145 were considered to be of possible clinical relevance for further review and were included in the evidence analysis. Results Level I evidence indicates an acceptable long-term efficacy of initial argon laser trabeculoplasty for open-angle glaucoma compared with initial medical treatment. Among the remaining studies, level II evidence supports the efficacy of selective laser trabeculoplasty for lowering intraocular pressure for patients with open-angle glaucoma. Level III evidence supports the efficacy of repeat use of laser trabeculoplasty. Conclusions Laser trabeculoplasty is successful in lowering intraocular pressure for patients with open-angle glaucoma. At this time, there is no literature establishing the superiority of any particular form of laser trabeculoplasty. The theories of action of laser trabeculoplasty are not elucidated fully. Further research into the differences among the lasers used in trabeculoplasty, the repeatability of the procedure, and techniques of treatment is necessary. Financial Disclosure(s) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found after the references.

Objectives: Open-angle glaucoma (OAG) imposes high disease burden in South Korea. Although various effective interventions are available to manage the progression of OAG, there is limited data on the cost-effectiveness of these treatment strategies in South Korea. Methods: Using a Markov cohort model, we evaluated the cost-effectiveness of 3 major treatment strategies (medication, laser trabeculoplasty, and trabeculectomy) for South Korean patients with OAG. We projected a 25-year time horizon to study a hypothetical cohort of 10,000 patients of age 40 with mild OAG. The outcome measures were quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained, cost from the societal perspective, and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of medication, laser trabeculoplasty, and trabeculectomy. Interventions were evaluated at a willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold of 30,000,000 KRW ($29,152) per QALY gained. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were conducted to address the model uncertainty. Results: The mean costs for medication, laser trabeculoplasty, and trabeculectomy were 29,661,740 KRW, 17,34,1342 KRW, and 22,275,438 KRW, respectively. The mean QALYs gained were 15.7, 15.3, and 14.8 for medication, laser trabeculoplasty, and trabeculectomy, respectively. Surgery was strongly dominated because it generated fewer expected QALYs but incurred greater expected cost than laser. The ICER was 30,885,179 KRW per QALY for medication versus laser trabeculoplasty. Laser was cost-effective, however, at a lower WTP threshold of 21,000,000 KRW per QALY gained or below. The results were most sensitive to the progression rates from mild to moderate glaucoma under laser treatment. Conclusion: Under the WTP threshold of 30,000,000 KRW per QALY, medication was cost-effective compared with laser trabeculoplasty and trabeculectomy for treating mild OAG in South Korean population. Laser, however, can be a cost-effective alternative in more resource-limited settings.

The study was aimed at evaluating the efficacy of diode laser trabeculoplsaty in lowering intraocular pressure in patients with both primary open-angle glaucoma and exfoliation glaucoma by using different size of laser spot. This six-month, unmasked, controlled, prospective study included sixty-two patients with the same number of eyes, who were divided into two groups. Trabeculoplasty was performed with 50 ? and 100 ? laser spot size in the group I and group II, respectively. Other laser parameters were the same for both groups: the wave length of 532 nm, 0.1 second single emission with the power of 600-1200 mW was applied on the 180 degrees of the trabeculum. The mean intraocular pressure decrease in the 50 ? group (group I) on day 7 was 24% from the baseline and after six-month follow-up period the intraocular pressure decrease was 29.8% (p

Background and Objective: To report the impact of prior laser trabeculoplasty on clinical outcomes of Trabectome (NeoMedix Corporation, Tustin, CA) surgery. Patients and Methods: This is a retrospective, non-comparative study of consecutive cases of Trabectome surgery with 36 months of follow-up. Main outcome measures were intraocular pressure (IOP), number of glaucoma medications, and the occurrence of secondary procedures. Results: In the trabeculoplasty group, mean IOP measured 16.5 ± 4.0 mm Hg with an average decrease of 24% from preoperative IOP at 12 months. In eyes without previous trabeculoplasty, IOP measured 15.7 ± 3.0 mm Hg with an average decrease of 30% at 12 months. Adjunctive medications decreased to 2.1 and 1.5 glaucoma medications, respectively. Secondary procedures were performed in 12% and 10% of eyes in each group. Conclusion: Previous laser trabeculoplasty does not appear to significantly impact IOP, but may increase the need for glaucoma medication in patients undergoing Trabectome surgery.

Management of glaucoma in pregnant women can be a challenge for the ophthalmologist. The literature is poorly informed and controversial. The risk and benefits to the mother and the fetus must be evaluated. When it is decided that treatment is necessary, there is no consensus of orientation to the safest treatment. However, when surgery or trabeculoplasty cannot be performed before pregnancy, a number of rules can be established: good follow-up, good communication with the patient, differentiation of the three phases of the pregnancy, and applying pressure on the lacrimal points during the instillation of the eye drops. Finally, the betablockers are the molecules for which longest experience has been accumulated and trabeculoplasty seems to be a beneficial alternative.

Purpose: To determine the relationship between mean deviation (MD) scores and resource utilization among glaucoma patients in the United States and Europe. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patient in the United States (June 1990 to January 2003, N = 151) and Europe (June 1994 to July 2003, N = 194) was conducted. Office visits, pressure-lowering medications, visual field examinations, and glaucoma surgeries were recorded with age, intraocular pressure (IOP), and MD. Patients with missing MD and IOP were excluded; final sample sizes were 130 in the United States and 161 in Europe. Fixed effects and logistic regression models assessed the associations between MD and visits, medication, examinations, and surgery. Results: Number of office visits and visual field examinations significantly increased but the number of glaucoma medications decreased as MD worsened and IOP increased. Odds of trabeculoplasty within 2 years decreased by 8.1% in the United States and 9.9% in Europe with every 1.0 dB improvement in MD. Odds of trabeculectomy within 2 years increased by 13.9% in the United States and by 18.6% in Europe with every 1 mm Hg increase in IOP. In the United States, odds of trabeculectomy within 5 years increased by 12.2% with each 1.0 dB worsening in MD. Conclusions: MD is associated with resource utilization in glaucoma patients. Evidence supporting use of MD to predict surgery is less conclusive, possibly due to the relative low frequency of surgeries. Therapies aimed at stabilizing visual field deterioration may reduce resource use and costs associated with glaucoma; however, more research is necessary to establish whether such treatments meet common standards of cost-effectiveness.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the hypotensive response of human glaucomatous eyes to 1% pilocarpine solution before and after argon laser trabeculoplasty. Methods: We designed a prospective, ‘repeated measures’ study comparing the ocular hypotensive effect of acutely administered 1% pilocarpine solution in 30 medically uncontrolled glaucomatous eyes, before and after argon laser trabeculoplasty. Results: The pilocarpine-induced IOP decrease was 3.6 ± 0.59 mmHg before argon laser trabeculoplasty, and 1.8 ± 0.53 mmHg after laser therapy. In both instances, the pilocarpine hypotensive effect was significantly correlated with pretreatment IOP (p = 0.02, r = 0.41 before argon laser trabeculoplasty, and p = 0.003, r = 0.52 after argon laser trabeculoplasty). We built a ‘repeated measurements ANCOVA’ model, and found no statistically significant difference between the pilocarpine IOP lowering effect before and after argon laser trabeculoplasty (p = 0.4). Conclusion: Argon laser trabeculoplasty does not modify the IOP lowering effect of 1% pilocarpine solution.

In a retrospective survey of 143 eyes of 143 patients with chronic open-angle glaucoma, 0.2 second argon laser trabeculoplasty was found to produce a greater decrease in intra-ocular pressure, especially at higher initial values, and was associated with a reduction in the medications used. In addition, fewer patients required further intervention (repeat trabeculoplasty or drainage surgery) compared with those undergoing 0.1 second trabeculoplasty. This effect may have occurred because of the difference in the mean energy delivered between the two groups, which arose chiefly as a result of the duration employed.