Early results of modified nonpenetrating deep sclerectomy and phacoemulsification in the treatment of open angle glaucoma and cataract.

PURPOSE: To study the outcome and control of intraocular pressure (IOP) of a combined modified nonpenetrating deep sclerectomy (NPDS) without use of implants and phacoemulsification in patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and cataract.

METHODS

Prospective series of 14 eyes in 14 patients with medically uncontrolled POAG and cataract with significant visual impairment undergoing a modified NPDS and phacoemulsification. The surgery was designed to utilize all four mechanisms of outflow track of aqueous of NPDS without the use of scleral implant and a standardized postoperative management and early Nd:YAG laser goniopuncture at 4 weeks. All patients underwent clinical assessment before and after surgery at day 1, day 7, weeks 2, 3, and 4, and then at 2, 3, and 6 months postoperation. Surgical outcome was assessed in terms of IOP, visual acuity, and the incidence of complications.

RESULTS

IOP decreased significantly from a preoperative value of 21.71+/-3.81 mmHg (mean +/- SD) to a postoperative value of 13.14+/-3.73 mmHg (mean +/- SD) (p<0.05, paired t test) at 6 months. The number of antiglaucoma eyedrops needed for control of IOP decreased from 3.28+/-0.91 to zero after operation at 6 months follow-up. The change in IOP pre and post laser goniopuncture was noted with no complication or fluctuation in anterior chamber depth. Visual acuity ranged from finger counting to 6/18 with Snellen chart at 6 meters preoperatively to 6/36 to 6/9 postoperatively. There were no intraoperative complications. There was one recessed conjunctival wound at 1 week. No other postoperative complication was noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Modified NPDS without scleral implant with early Nd:YAG laser goniopuncture and phacoemulsification for treatment of patients with POAG and cataract is a safe and effective procedure with complete success at 6 months.