Primary angle-closure glaucoma: A review 5 years after bilateral surgery

Abstract

52 consecutive patients who had bilateral surgery for angle-closure glaucoma were reviewed after 5 years. One-third and possibly 40 per cent. had died. When angles were open preoperatively, peripheral iridectomy prevented future angleclosure. Prophylactic peripheral iridectomy affects some lenses, especially to cause a myopic change in refraction, and rarely to cause lens opacities. When assessed in relation to the risks and results of angle-closure glaucoma in the second eye (Lowe, I 962) the effects uon some lenses appear to be justifiable side-reactions. Peripheral iridectomy is not recommended for eyes with only shallow anterior chambers and narrow angles but without symptoms or signs of angle-closure glaucoma in either eye.