Tube Revision Outcomes for Exposure with Different Repair Techniques

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Glaucoma Surgery
• Ophthalmic Devices

Background:

• Glaucoma drainage devices (GDDs) are used to manage intraocular pressure.
• GDD exposure is a known complication requiring surgical repair.
• Understanding re-exposure rates is crucial for optimizing surgical outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of eyes experiencing initial glaucoma drainage device (GDD) exposure.
• To analyze the risk and timing of subsequent re-exposures after GDD repair.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 42 patients (43 eyes) with GDD exposure (2008-2015).
• Data collected included GDD type, surgical repair techniques, and follow-up for re-exposure.
• Comparison of baseline features between eyes with and without further exposure.

Main Results:

• Ahmed FP7 was the most common GDD (31 eyes).
• Repair without a patch graft showed a two-fold increased risk of re-exposure (RR=2.10).
• 18 eyes experienced a second exposure, 4 a third, and 1 a fourth.

Conclusions:

• GDD exposure rates in this study align with existing literature.
• The absence of a patch graft during repair is a significant risk factor for GDD re-exposure.