[The influence of healing on the long-term effect of trabeculotomy in primary open angle glaucoma (author's transl)]

83 eyes underwent a re-examination 3-7 years after trabeculotomy. By surgery alone the diurnal curve in 58 out of 74 eyes (78 percent) was regulated. In the majority of the other eyes additional medication controlled the i.o. pressure. There was no secondary cataract or other late complication. In 5 eyes there was a moderate deterioration of glaucomatous field defects without a decrease of visual acuity. The average i.o. pressure increased 2 mm Hg during the first 6 months postop., later on it was constant. The scarring processes in the chamber angle known from experimental surgery seemed to come to an end usually 6 months postoperatively. To judge the final result of trabeculotomy a postoperative follow-up of 6 months is necessary.