Long-term Visual Acuity Outcomes of Deep Sclerectomy in Pediatric Glaucoma

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric Surgery

Background:

• Childhood glaucoma, a severe condition, necessitates effective long-term management strategies.
• Deep sclerectomy is a surgical technique explored for its efficacy in managing pediatric glaucoma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the long-term visual acuity outcomes of deep sclerectomy in pediatric glaucoma patients.
• To identify prognostic factors for poor outcomes in pediatric glaucoma treated with deep sclerectomy.
• To evaluate the long-term intraocular pressure (IOP) control achieved by deep sclerectomy.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of pediatric patients undergoing deep sclerectomy between 2001 and 2016.
• Analysis of preoperative findings, long-term visual acuity, and IOP outcomes.
• Inclusion of patients with valid visual acuity tests.

Main Results:

• The study included 83 eyes from 68 pediatric patients, with a mean follow-up of 10.75 years.
• Visual acuity was ≥20/40 in 56.6% of cases; complete IOP control (≤21 mmHg without medication) was achieved in 63.86% after one surgery.
• A qualified success rate was observed in 9.6% with medication, while 26.5% required further intervention; 10.74% experienced postoperative complications.

Conclusions:

• Deep sclerectomy demonstrates long-term efficacy and safety in managing childhood glaucoma.
• The procedure offers a reasonable option for pediatric glaucoma, yielding good visual outcomes and IOP control.
• Deep sclerectomy presents a lower risk profile for surgical complications in pediatric glaucoma management.