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Descemet Membrane Detachment During Ab-Interno Canaloplasty
Barbara Cortes1,2, Lily Spellman1,2, Isha Cheela1,2
1Department of Ophthalmology, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, NY.
International Ophthalmology Clinics
|June 18, 2026
Summary
Descemet membrane detachment (DMD) is a rare complication of canaloplasty, a glaucoma surgery. This case highlights factors influencing management of hemorrhagic DMD after iTrack microcatheter use.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Glaucoma Surgery
- Corneal Surgery
Background:
- Canaloplasty is a minimally invasive glaucoma surgery restoring aqueous outflow via Schlemm canal.
- While generally safe, complications like hyphema or incorrect catheterization can occur.
- Descemet membrane detachment (DMD) is an infrequent complication, potentially causing visual decompensation, especially if central.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a case of hemorrhagic Descemet membrane detachment (DMD) following canaloplasty.
- To emphasize factors influencing the management of DMD post-canaloplasty.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a patient undergoing canaloplasty with the iTrack microcatheter.
- Detailed description of the complication and its clinical presentation.
Main Results:
- The patient developed a hemorrhagic DMD with trapped viscoelastic material.
- The detachment involved the interface between the Descemet membrane and posterior corneal stroma.
Conclusions:
- Hemorrhagic DMD is a rare but significant complication of canaloplasty.
- Management decisions for DMD should consider its location, pupillary relationship, size, and contents.