Combined cataract extraction and trabeculotomy by the internal approach for coexisting cataract and open-angle glaucoma.

PURPOSE: To provide efficacy and safety of surgery with Trabectome combined with phacoemulsification in primary open-angle glaucoma.

METHODS

In this interventional case series, 30 consecutive eyes that have had combined phacoemulsification with Trabectome were included. The main outcome measures were change in intraocular pressure (IOP), glaucoma medication use, and the rate of complications.

RESULTS

Mean IOP was 18.25 ± 3.28 mmHg preoperatively which decreased to 13.50 ± 2.53 mmHg at 1 year. (P < 0.05). There was a corresponding drop in glaucoma medications from 2.52 ± 0.60 at baseline to 1.40 ± 0.53 at 12 months (P < 0.01). The preoperative BCVA (Log Mar) was improved from 0.68 ± 0.26 pre-operatively to 0.26 ± 0.19, 0.18 ± 0.13, 0.17 ± 0.13, 0.11 ± 0.12, at 5 days and 2, 6, and 12 months, respectively (P < 0.01). The only frequent complication was transient blood reflux resolving spontaneously within a few days. No vision-threatening complication occurred.

CONCLUSION

Combined phacoemulsification and Trabectome significantly lowered IOP and medication use, with early visual rehabilitation in the majority of patients.