The effect of deep sclerectomy on intraocular pressure of normal-tension glaucoma patients: 1-year results

Abstract

Purpose: To study the intraocular pressure (IOP)-reducing effect of deep sclerectomy on normal-tension glaucoma (NTG) patients. Methods: We retrospectively analysed 21 eyes of 18 consecutive NTG patients who had undergone deep sclerectomy with mitomycin-C and a collagen implant. Results: Median (range) preoperative IOP was 15.1 mmHg (9.3-20.8) and median follow-up time 13 months (12-18). At the 1-year follow-up visit, median IOP was significantly (P < 0.001) reduced to 10.5 mmHg (4-15) with median IOP reduction from preoperative values of 37% (12-78). Laser goniopuncture was performed in 10 eyes (48%) 1-16 months postoperatively. After 13 months' follow-up, a complete success at 20%, 25% and 30% IOP reduction levels was achieved in 67%, 62% and 52% of eyes, respectively. Few complications were encountered, but these included reduced visual acuity, problems with conjunctiva, microperforation, hyphaema, Dellen formation and encapsulated bleb. We encountered no complications related to postoperative hypotony. Conclusion: Deep sclerectomy with a collagen implant and mitomycin-C was a safe and effective method for reducing IOP in NTG patients during 1-year follow-up. © 2009 Acta Ophthalmol.