Two-stage intra-tenon injection versus sponge-applied mitomycin C-augmented trabeculectomy: a one-year study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Glaucoma Surgery
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Mitomycin C (MMC) is crucial for preventing scar tissue in trabeculectomy, a glaucoma surgery.
• Delivery methods for MMC have evolved from sponges to injections.
• Comparing these methods is essential for optimizing surgical outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of a modified two-stage, low-dose intra-Tenon injection of MMC versus traditional MMC soaked sponges.
• To evaluate outcomes over a 1-year follow-up period in patients undergoing trabeculectomy.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study comparing two groups of glaucoma patients undergoing trabeculectomy.
• One group received a two-stage intra-Tenon MMC injection (0.01%), while the other received MMC soaked sponges (0.02%).
• Data collected included intraocular pressure, medication use, complications, and surgical interventions over 1 year.

Main Results:

• The MMC injection group demonstrated significantly lower intraocular pressure at most follow-up points compared to the sponge group.
• Patients in the injection group required fewer antiglaucoma medications at 1 year and had a higher complete success rate.
• No significant differences in complication rates were observed between the two techniques.

Conclusions:

• The two-stage intra-Tenon MMC injection method is superior to the sponge technique for trabeculectomy.
• This injection method leads to better intraocular pressure control and reduced need for glaucoma medications and revisions.