Limbus-based versus Fornix-based conjunctival flap in filtering surgery. A randomized prospective study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Innovation
• Glaucoma Management

Background:

• Filtering surgery is a common treatment for glaucoma.
• Conjunctival flap techniques, including limbus-based and fornix-based, are used to create these filtration pathways.
• Optimizing surgical techniques aims to improve efficacy and reduce complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy and safety of limbus-based versus fornix-based conjunctival flaps in filtering surgery for glaucoma.
• To evaluate intraocular pressure (IOP) regulation between the two surgical techniques.
• To assess the occurrence of complications such as shallow anterior chamber and filtering bleb vascularization.

Main Methods:

• A randomized prospective study design was employed.
• Patients underwent filtering surgery with either a limbus-based or a fornix-based conjunctival flap.
• Wound closure for the fornix-based flap utilized a running 10/0 nylon suture at the limbus.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant difference in intraocular pressure (IOP) regulation was observed between the limbus-based and fornix-based groups.
• A trend towards a reduced occurrence of shallow anterior chamber was noted in the fornix-based technique group.
• Filtering blebs in the fornix-based technique group showed a tendency towards less vascularization.

Conclusions:

• Both limbus-based and fornix-based conjunctival flaps are effective in IOP regulation for glaucoma surgery.
• The fornix-based technique may offer advantages in reducing the incidence of shallow anterior chamber and filtering bleb vascularization.
• Further research may be warranted to confirm these trends and optimize surgical outcomes in glaucoma management.