Glaucoma management after corneal transplantation surgeries

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Transplantation
• Glaucoma Management

Background:

• Corneal transplantation procedures like penetrating keratoplasty, Descemet's stripping endothelial keratoplasty, and Boston keratoprosthesis can lead to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and glaucoma.
• The incidence of glaucoma varies significantly based on the specific corneal transplant procedure performed.
• Key etiological factors include synechial angle closure and corticosteroid-induced IOP elevation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and describe the diverse treatment strategies for managing glaucoma following corneal transplantation.
• To provide an overview of current therapeutic approaches for post-keratoplasty glaucoma.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes information on the management of glaucoma after various corneal transplantation techniques.
• It examines established and potential treatment modalities for elevated IOP and glaucoma progression in this patient population.

Main Results:

• Medical therapies and laser treatments are typically the initial approaches for managing postoperative IOP elevation.
• Surgical interventions, such as filtering surgery and glaucoma drainage devices, may be required for persistent IOP control and to prevent glaucomatous damage.

Conclusions:

• Glaucoma is a frequent complication post-corneal transplantation, with severity often linked to the initial indication for surgery.
• While medical management can control IOP in some cases, refractory glaucoma necessitates surgical intervention.
• Early detection and prompt intervention are crucial for optimizing visual outcomes in patients with post-keratoplasty glaucoma.