Consider This Procedure in Patients with Advanced Open Angle Glaucoma

Combining viscocanalostomy and express shunt implant in patients with advanced open angle glaucoma appears to be safe and effective, according to a study involving 40 individuals. The results were presented by Ahmed Samir, MD, a lecturer of ophthalmology, at Zagazig University in Egypt, during the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery’s 2018 annual meeting in Washington, DC. 

Participants with primary open angle glaucoma underwent either 1) viscocanalostomy until Schlemm’s canal was deroofed and dilated with viscoelastic, followed by shunt implant (n=20) or 2) trabeculectomy with mitomycin C (n=20). Investigators looked at postop intraocular pressure (IOP) and complications. Among the results: 

• Mean IOP was significantly lower in the viscocanalostomy group in the early postop period.
• This contingent also experienced fewer postop complications. 

Samir A. Combined viscocanalostomy and miniature shunt implantation for management of advanced glaucoma. Talk presented at: 2018 ASCRS-ASOA Annual Meeting; April 13-17, 2018; Washington, DC.