Effectiveness of transscleral cyclophotocoagulation as adjuvant therapy for refractory glaucoma in keratoprosthesis patients.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of diode laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (DLTSC) as an adjuvant therapy to treat refractory glaucoma diagnosed before or after Moscow Eye Microsurgery Complex (MICOF) keratoprosthesis surgery.

METHODS

Fifteen patients underwent unilateral DLTSC to treat refractory glaucoma diagnosed before or after undergoing MICOF keratoprosthesis surgery. The cause for keratoprosthesis was alkali burn in 8 patients (53.33%); thermal burn, sulfuric acid burn, and Steven-Johnson syndrome in 2 patients (13.33%) each; and ocular cicatricial pemphigoid in 1 patient (6.67%). Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), any medications, and adverse events were recorded before DLTSC and on postoperative day 7; months 1, 3, and 6; and every 6 months afterwards.

RESULTS

The patients were followed up for an average of 13.15 ± 9.35 months. The IOP was significantly less at postoperative months 6, 12, 24, and 36. There were no changes in BCVA after DLTSC. No significant changes in medication to treat ocular hypertension were prescribed.

CONCLUSIONS

Diode laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation is an effective treatment option for refractory glaucoma and can be used as a therapy adjuvant to keratoprosthesis. Long-term effects require further clinical observation.