Aqueous tube-shunt implantation and pars plana vitrectomy in eyes with refractory glaucoma

We reviewed the surgical outcome of 20 eyes of 20 consecutive patients who had undergone combined aqueous tube-shunt implantation and vitrectomy for complicated glaucoma associated with vitreoretinal disorders. After a mean follow-up of 10.39 +/- 5.43 months, visual acuity remained stable or improved in 13 patients (65%), and intraocular pressure was controlled (< 22 mm Hg) in 15 (75%). The most common complications were corneal edema (seven eyes) and choroidal effusion (three eyes). Combined tube-shunt implantation and pars plana vitrectomy may successfully control intraocular pressure and maintain preoperative visual acuity in refractory glaucoma associated with vitreoretinal disorders.