Evaluation of the long-term results of trabectome surgery

The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of ab interno trabeculectomy which is a minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, in the late period, performed via trabectome instrument. A total of 70 eyes followed up with a diagnosis of open-angle glaucoma (OAG) and undertaken trabectome surgery were included in the study. Preoperative and postoperative intraocular pressures (IOPs), number of the drugs used, and complications were retrospectively investigated and the data were evaluated. The criteria of success were accepted as an IOP value ≤21 mmHg or ≥30 % reduction in IOP and no need for a second operation. Mean IOP was decreased by 38 % from a preoperative value of 28.77 ± 5.34 to 17.62 ± 2.81 mmHg at the end of 18 months. Likewise, mean drug usage was decreased by 48 % from a preoperative value of 3.3 ± 1.01 to 1.7 ± 1.16 at the end of 18 months. Both decreases were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Postoperative success rates were 82.8 % in the 6th month, 81.4 % in the 9th month, 77.1 % in the 12th month, and 70 % in the 18th month. Most common complication observed was intraoperative reflux hemorrhage and no serious complication was observed. Trabectome surgery is an effective and safe method in early-stage open-angle glaucoma types that cannot be controlled despite maximal medical therapy. This procedure is a proper surgical option in patients targeted for moderate IOP without the need for a topical medication or with less drug usage.