Five-year results of viscocanalostomy

To prospectively study the success rates and complications of viscocanalostomy.

Prospective nonrandomized case series of 46 eyes (46 patients) with medically uncontrolled primary and secondary open angle glaucoma. All patients in the study underwent viscocanalostomy. Control of intraocular pressure was used to measure success. Pre and postoperative glaucoma medications, visual acuity, complications, and adjunctive procedures were recorded.

At 60 months, qualified success (intraocular pressure below 21 mmHg with glaucoma medication) was achieved in 37 (82%) patients and complete success (intraocular pressure below 21 mmHg without medication) in 25 (54%) patients. Nd:YAG laser goniopuncture was performed in 33 (72%) patients with significant post laser reduction of intraocular pressure. No sight threatening complications were observed in this series. Visual acuity remained unchanged in 33 patients (72%).

Viscocanalostomy appears to be a safe and effective intraocular pressure lowering procedure in eyes with primary open angle glaucoma and certain types of secondary open angle glaucoma.