[Collagen implant in refractory glaucoma surgery]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Glaucoma Surgery
• Corneal Disease Management

Background:

• Refractory glaucoma (RG) poses challenges, especially in patients with concurrent corneal disease.
• Glaucoma preceding penetrating keratoplasty increases the risk of post-keratoplasty glaucoma and graft failure.
• Current RG surgical trends favor the implantation of draining devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of glaucoma surgery utilizing a collagen implant in patients with RG and severe corneal disease.
• To assess the safety and impact of collagen implants on corneal graft survival and surgical outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 42 surgical operations involving collagen implant insertion for refractory glaucoma.
• Evaluation of intraocular pressure reduction and corneal status post-surgery.

Main Results:

• The collagen implant technique achieved a persistent hypotensive effect.
• Significant corneal improvement was observed in patients following the procedure.
• The collagen implant demonstrated absolute safety regarding corneal graft survival.
• Scarring in the surgical area was prevented by the collagen implant insertion.

Conclusions:

• Glaucoma surgery with a collagen implant is effective for managing refractory glaucoma in patients with severe corneal disease.
• This surgical approach offers a safe method to improve both ocular pressure and corneal health.
• Collagen implants represent a promising option for preventing graft failure and surgical site scarring.