Vision-threatening glaucoma following cataract surgery

In four patients, vision-threatening acute glaucoma occurred following routine uncomplicated cataract surgery. Intraocular pressure remained elevated despite maximum tolerated medical therapy, requiring glaucoma filtering surgery in all four cases. Enzyme zonulolysis, water-tight wound closure, and compression of angle structures by wound sutures are discussed as contributing factors in the development of this postoperative acute glaucoma.