Comparison between phaco-deep sclerectomy converted into phaco-trabeculectomy and uneventful phaco-deep sclerectomy

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Glaucoma Surgery

Background:

• Phaco-deep sclerectomy (DS) is a surgical technique for glaucoma management.
• Intraoperative complications can necessitate conversion to alternative procedures like phaco-trabeculectomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare outcomes and complications of phaco-DS converted to phaco-trabeculectomy versus uneventful phaco-DS.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 106 eyes undergoing planned phaco-DS.
• Comparison of intraocular pressure, visual acuity, medication use, and complications between uneventful phaco-DS (n=96) and converted phaco-trabeculectomy (n=10).

Main Results:

• Converted phaco-trabeculectomy group showed significantly lower postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP).
• Uneventful phaco-DS group had faster visual acuity improvement but required more glaucoma medications.
• Converted group experienced higher rates of hyphema and choroidal detachment.

Conclusions:

• Phaco-trabeculectomy conversion provides superior midterm IOP control compared to uneventful phaco-DS.
• This conversion strategy is associated with increased early postoperative complications and slower visual recovery.