CO2 laser-assisted deep sclerectomy in glaucoma patients.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Technology
• Glaucoma Research

Background:

• Open-angle glaucoma necessitates effective surgical interventions to manage intraocular pressure (IOP).
• Traditional glaucoma filtration surgeries carry risks and varying success rates.
• Minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries are being explored to improve safety and efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of CO2 laser-assisted deep sclerectomy surgery (CLASS).
• To assess the impact of CLASS on intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma.
• To determine the success rates of CLASS at the 12-month follow-up.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, single-arm clinical investigation was conducted on 15 patients with open-angle or pseudoexfoliation glaucoma.
• CO2 laser-assisted deep sclerectomy was performed, involving a half-thickness scleral flap and CO2 laser ablation.
• Intraocular pressure (IOP), visual acuity, and ophthalmologic examinations were monitored for 12 months. Complete success was defined as IOP between 5-21 mm Hg with a 20% reduction and no medication.

Main Results:

• Preoperative IOP of 27.3±4.2 mm Hg decreased significantly to 16.6±3.4 mm Hg at 12 months (P<0.001).
• Average IOP reduction was 39.2% at 12 months.
• The complete success rate was 45.5%, and the qualified success rate (with medication) was 90.9% after 12 months.

Conclusions:

• CO2 laser-assisted deep sclerectomy surgery (CLASS) is a safe and effective procedure for managing open-angle glaucoma.
• CLASS demonstrates significant and sustained IOP reduction.
• The surgical technique shows promising results for achieving glaucoma control.