Suprachoroidal Bleeding After XEN Gel Implantation

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Glaucoma Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)

Background:

• Pseudoexfoliation glaucoma requires effective intraocular pressure (IOP) management.
• XEN45 gel stent implantation is a minimally invasive glaucoma surgery option.
• This case explores a rare complication following XEN45 gel stent implantation.

Observation:

• A patient with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma underwent XEN45 gel implantation.
• Postoperatively, the patient initially showed improved IOP and a functioning bleb.
• Suprachoroidal bleeding developed on the second postoperative day.

Findings:

• The suprachoroidal bleeding resolved spontaneously over six weeks.
• The XEN45 gel stent achieved significant IOP reduction.
• This complication, though rare, occurred despite a technically uncomplicated procedure.

Implications:

• Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery aims for safer IOP reduction compared to traditional methods.
• Complication rates after XEN45 gel stent implantation may resemble those of trabeculectomy.
• Informed consent must adequately address potential risks associated with XEN45 gel stent surgery.