Postoperative management of trabeculectomy and glaucoma drainage implant surgery.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This article describes important aspects of postoperative management after trabeculectomy and glaucoma drainage implant surgery.

RECENT FINDINGS: Postoperative management of glaucoma drainage implant surgery includes stabilization of intraocular pressure, possible ligature release, and management of complications such as corneal edema, and tube/plate exposure. Postoperative management of trabeculectomy includes evaluation of bleb encapsulation, management of hypotony, and assessment of need for adjuvant therapy. Recent advances in surgical techniques, device/tissue availability, and imaging continue to shape the postoperative course.

SUMMARY: Careful preoperative planning and postoperative care may decrease the likelihood of complications in tube surgery or trabeculectomy.