[The evaluation of efficacy of Ahmed valve implantation in the surgical treatment of glaucoma in children and adolescents].

PURPOSE: To report the safety and efficacy of Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation in the management of secondary glaucoma in children and adolescents.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

6 patients with secondary glaucoma underwent Ahmed valve implantation. 1 patient had aphakic glaucoma, 3 patients had traumatic glaucoma, 1 patient had aniridia and 1 patient had ectropion uveae. IOP values range from 35 to 51 mmHg (mean 41.3 mmHg), with maximal medical treatment by this time. Mean follow-up was 2.17 years.

RESULTS

Mean pooperative IOP ranged from 2 to 8 mmHg (mean 6 mmHg), during the first week. 6 months later IOP increased to 15.2 (6-21) mmHg. The mean IOP at last follow-up was 15 mmHg and overall success rate was 83.3%. We observed one hypotony, one tube exposure and one Tenon's cyst formation.

CONCLUSIONS

The Ahmed valve is effective treatment for secondary glaucoma in children. It can be useful to avoid enucleation of the eye with traumatic glaucoma.