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AbstractBackgroundMethodsResultsConclusionTo compare the efficacy of modified Ex-PRESS technique (ExP) versus Ahmed Glaucoma Valve (AGV) as primary surgery in hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv) secondary glaucoma.Retrospective study at the national amyloidosis centre. Success was defined as an IOP ≥ 6 mmHg and ≤ 21 mmHg with no need for further glaucoma surgery or laser trabeculoplasty and without loss of light perception at the time of the last follow-up. Secondary outcomes included surgical complications, need for hypotensive drugs, and endothelial cell loss. Patients submitted to previous glaucoma surgery were excluded.We included 180 eyes of 150 patients, 121 in AGV and 59 in ExP group. No significant baseline differences were found between groups. At the time of last follow-up, both groups exhibited significant intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction (p < .001) and number of glaucoma medications (p < .001). Kaplan-Meyer analysis showed higher cumulative probability of success for AGV group (80.1% vs. 41.1%, p < .001) and higher mean time to failure (54.5 vs. 36.9 months, respectively, p < 0.001) at 60 months follow-up. AGV showed lower hazard (HR 0.21, 95% CI [0.111–0.407], p < .001) for failure.AGV and ExP are safe and effective techniques in the treatment of ATTRv secondary glaucoma. However, AGV’s efficacy seems to be more durable. [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. [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]

Objective Procedure Results Conclusions The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate vision outcomes of dogs with primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG) that underwent Ahmed valve gonioimplantation (AVG) followed by lensectomy and endolaser cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) with or without bleb resection after AVG failure.Medical records from 2008 to April 2022 were reviewed. All patients selected had an AVG performed first. Following valve failure, lensectomy–ECP was performed in addition to bleb resection as indicated. Additional ECP and AVG replacement surgeries were performed as deemed medically necessary. Main outcomes evaluated included vision preservation, average IOP reduction, and the number of glaucoma medications (both oral and topical) at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months.Fourteen eyes from 13 patients were included in the study. Females were predominant (n = 9) compared with males (n = 4). Mean age at initial glaucoma diagnosis was 6.82 years. Following AVG and lensectomy–ECP, vision was preserved in 93%, 84%, 60%, and 48% of eyes at 1, 2, 3, and 4 years respectively. Following lensectomy–ECP, there was a significant reduction in mean IOP of 9.64 mmHg (p = .015) and 9.71 mmHg (p = .016) at 2 and 6 months, respectively. There was a reduction in mean IOP of 2.45, 7.25, and 12.25 mmHg at 12, 24, and 36 months, respectively, which was not statistically significant. There was a significant decrease in the number of glaucoma medications at all evaluated time points except 24 months.Combined AVG and lensectomy–ECP is successful in maintaining vision long term as well as decreasing IOP, and the number of glaucoma medications administered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To compare the efficacy and safety of primary Ahmed valve implantation (AVI) and primary trabeculectomy with mitomycin C (MMC) in patients with pseudophakic exfoliative glaucoma (XFG). Methods: All enrolled patients were divided into two groups: the TRAB group, comprising patients who underwent trabeculectomy with MMC, and the AVI group, comprising patients who underwent AVI. Intraocular pressure (IOP), mean deviation (MD), endothelial cell density of cornea (ECD), and the number of topical anti-glaucoma agents used during study period were retrospectively analyzed. Surgical success rates were compared between two groups using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis. Three levels of surgical success were defined as follows: (1) IOP ≤ 18 mmHg and an IOP reduction of 20% without medication; (2) IOP ≤ 15 mmHg and an IOP reduction of 25% without medication; and (3) IOP ≤ 18 mmHg and an IOP reduction of 20%, irrespective of medication. Results: The TRAB and AVI groups comprised 40 and 36 patients, respectively. At 36 months postoperatively, IOP was 15.7 ± 2.8 mmHg in the TRAB group and 16.9 ± 3.3 mmHg in the AVI group (p = 0.140). Surgical success rates in the TRAB group were 47.5, 37.5, and 77.5% and those in the AVI group were 41.6, 33.3, and 75.0% at 36 months for surgical criteria 1, 2, and 3, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in the success rates between the two groups. However, regarding surgical criteria 2, the success rate of the AVI group at 1 year was significantly better than that of the TRAB group (p = 0.030). Conclusions: Primary AVI was not inferior to primary trabeculectomy with MMC in medically uncontrolled patients with XFG. [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.

Aim of study: Retrospective analysis of patient outcomes during six years' own clinical experience with Ahmed valve implants, including the benefits, and the author's original modification of the implantation technique. Results: Normalization of intraocular pressure (IOP) was achieved in the majority of patients undergoing the procedure, though some of them required additional topical hypotensive medications or IOP-lowering procedures. In two patients (three eyes), innovative combination procedures were performed to preserve and improve vision. Conclusions: IOP reduction surgery using the Ahmed valve is a safe procedure with long-lasting outcomes in terms of lowering and normalizing intraocular pressure. A prerequisite for employing the author's modification of valve tube implantation in the vitreous chamber is posterior vitrectomy. The modification helps prevent the most common postoperative complications associated with tube implantation in the anterior chamber and vitreous body. It needs to be highlighted that this treatment modality is one of only a few reversible methods used in the therapy of glaucoma, but it should be performed without delay to avoid irreversible loss of optic nerve function. [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.

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.

Purpose: To compare outcome of 4 methods for management of angle closure neovascular glaucoma (NVG) in diabetic eyes. Methods: Prospective comparative study, on 40 eyes (40 patients) with NVG. Patients were randomly assigned to group A (Trabeculectomy with MMC), B (Ahmed valve), C (Ex-Press Minishunt with MMC) or D (Diode cyclophotocoagulation). Patients were followed regularly for 1 year. Main outcome measures: intraocular pressure (IOP), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central foveal thickness (CFT), intraoperative bleeding, postoperative complications and 2ry intervention. Results: Preoperative data were not significantly different between 4 groups. Postoperatively, there was significant drop in IOP in each group at each follow-up. Ahmed valve group showed least mean postoperative IOP and highest mean drop of the IOP at 1 day and 1 week postoperatively, while Ex-Press minishunt group had least mean postoperative IOP at 1 month and 3 months postoperatively. At 6 months and 1 year, there was no significant difference between 4 groups. BCVA was not significantly different between 4 groups. At 1 year, CFT was significantly lower in each of the 4 groups, and it was significantly the least in group A and highest in group D. Highest intraoperative bleeding was observed with trabeculectomy. Success rate was not significantly different among the 4 groups. Conclusion: The 4 management options showed a significant long-term effect on IOP, and on long-terms there was no significant difference between them for IOP and BCVA. Trabeculectomy showed highest incidence of intraoperative bleeding, while cyclophotocoagulation showed none. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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.

Purpose: Angle surgery is the gold standard for the management of many types of childhood glaucoma, yet glaucoma drainage devices (GDD) are effective tools for refractory advanced cases or secondary childhood glaucomas. The purpose of this article is to review recently published literature focused on the use of GDDs for pediatric glaucoma, including GDD general principles and surgical outcomes.Methods: Literature review of various electronic databases was performed.Results: 71 papers were reviewed for outcomes of GDD in childhood glaucomas. Success rates were usually defined by intraocular pressure (IOP) of 5-22 mmHg, with or without medications. Success rates were typically higher for non-valved GDDs but varied by length of follow-up. Non-valved GDDs afford lower and longer-lasting IOP control in pediatric eyes than valved GDD, however, no randomized controlled trials exist in childhood glaucoma.Conclusion: Various designs of GDDs are available for management of childhood glaucoma with good short-term success rates; individual patient factors should be taken into consideration when selecting a specific device. [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. [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.

Objectives: To study the efficacy and safety of different treatments for diabetic neovascular glaucoma (NVG). We additionally attempt to determine if the presence of NVG could be a predictor of cardiovascular disease or death. Method: This is a retrospective, observational cohort study including patients diagnosed with diabetic NVG from 2006 to 2016 at the Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valladolid (Spain). Extracted data included clinical characteristics of the patients, glycated haemoglobin levels, and ocular treatment. Visual acuity (VA), intraocular pressure (IOP), cardiovascular events, and deaths were registered. Results: 30 eyes from 23 patients were followed for a mean of 4.48 years (SD = 2.82 years). The IOP-lowering intervention groups were: Ahmed implant (11 eyes), laser cyclo-photocoagulation (CPC; 6 eyes), both (4 eyes), or none (9 eyes). IOP success was achieved in 100% of the eyes with Ahmed and/or laser CPC and in 44.4% of the eyes with no IOP-lowering procedure (p= 0.002). Most eyes with Ahmed implant (with or without CPC) maintained or improved their VA (100 and 63.6%, respectively). 33.3% of the eyes with laser CPC and 25% of those with no IOP-lowering intervention maintained or improved their VA (p = 0.028). Hypotony was the only adverse effect (after laser CPC). No statistically significant difference could be established between low VA (finger count or worse), poor IOP control, or bad metabolic control and mortality or cardiovascular event (p > 0.05), however, the four patients who died had poor VA at the time of NVG diagnosis. Conclusions: Ahmed implant surgery is a safe and effective treatment option for diabetic NVG. Medical treatment alone is not the best option for most cases. Advanced NVG could be an indicator of higher mortality risk in diabetic patients. [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.

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.

Background: To report the outcome of intravitreal Bevacizumab followed by Ahmed valve implantation in the management of neovascular glaucoma in a patient group with extended follow-up.Methods: The records of 16 patients (18 eyes) with neovascular glaucoma refractory to medical therapy who presented to a single surgeon between 2006-2008 were reviewed. Patients received pan-retinal photocoagulation and then intravitreal Bevacizumab followed by Ahmed valve implantation. The main outcome measures were: control of IOP (with or without additional medication), visual acuity (VA) and failure (IOP >21 mmHg or <6 mmHg, reoperation for glaucoma, or loss of light perception).Results: Pre-operatively, all patients received pan-retinal photocoagulation followed by IVB at a mean of 15.9 (range 4-60) days prior to AGV. The mean pre-operative IOP was 37.1 mmHg (±13.4) on 3.2 (±0.87) medications. Of the 18 eyes, 14 eyes (78%) were treated with AGV alone and 4 eyes (22%) with AGV combined with cataract extraction. Sixteen eyes (89%) received mitomycin C treatment intraoperatively. Post-operatively, the mean follow-up period was 63 months (24-84). At final follow-up, the success rate was 50% (33.3% complete, 16.7% qualified) with a mean IOP of 18.1 mmHg (±9.5) on a mean number of 1.5 (±1.6) medications. The failure rate was 50%, with five eyes (27.8%) not meeting the IOP criteria for success (of these, three eyes required additional surgery to lower the IOP) and five eyes (22.2%) lost light perception.Conclusion: Intravitreal Bevacizumab followed by AGV offers long-term control of IOP without additional surgical intervention in the majority of cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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]

Abstract: An Ahmed valve implantation with an Ologen® Collagen Matrix (Ologen® CM, Aeon Astron, Leiden, the Netherlands) was performed for the treatment of uncontrolled glaucoma in a cat. This cat was a 5‐year‐old castrated Russian Blue male with a 12‐week history of conjunctival hyperemia and mydriasis of the left eye. During the ophthalmic examination, the intraocular pressure (IOP) oculus sinister (OS) was 52 mmHg, and a narrow iridocorneal angle (ICA) was detected by gonioscopy. Medical treatment with Cosopt® (2% dorzolamide and 0.5% timolol) failed to decrease the IOP. The left eye still had vision, and an Ahmed valve implantation was performed. During the gonioimplantation, Ologen® CM was used to inhibit scar formation around the valve. Following the operation, the IOP was stable at an approximate average of 15 mmHg during the 7‐month follow‐up period, and vision in the left eye was retained without medication. An adequate subconjunctival filtering bleb was formed after 140 days. This is the first case report in which an Ahmed valve gonioimplant with an Ologen® CM has been used for the surgical treatment of glaucoma in a cat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]