Study shows promise in predicting bleb failure after glaucoma surgery

Anterior segment OCT-angiography (AS-OCTA) can effectively evaluate bleb vascularization after Preserflo Microshunt (PM) implantation, offering a potential biomarker for predicting bleb failure, according to a study.

The study found a significant association between early postoperative bleb vessel densities and the likelihood of future surgical revisions, highlighting the importance of monitoring vascularization in managing glaucoma patients post-surgery.

The study enrolled 23 patients who underwent PM implantation. Over the course of up to 12 months post-surgery, AS-OCTA measurements were taken to determine bleb-vessel density (BVD), while documenting intraocular pressure (IOP) and the need for surgical revisions.

Results from the study found a significant decrease in baseline IOP, indicating the efficacy of PM implantation in managing glaucoma. However, 39% of patients required surgical revisions, highlighting the persistent challenge of bleb failure.

The study found that bleb vessel densities at 2 and 4 weeks post-surgery were strongly associated with the likelihood of future surgical revisions. Using logistic regression analysis, researchers demonstrated the predictive value of early postoperative BVD in identifying patients at risk of bleb failure.

Reference
Schneider S, Kallab M, Murauer O, et al. Bleb vessel density as a predictive factor for surgical revisions after Preserflo Microshunt implantation. Acta Ophthalmol. 2024;doi: 10.1111/aos.16642. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 38306110.