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Retinal vein occlusion after trabeculectomy with mitomycin C
S Dev1, L Herndon, M B Shields
1Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, USA.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|October 1, 1996
Summary
Trabeculectomy with mitomycin C may cause acute retinal vein occlusion in advanced glaucoma patients. This complication is linked to significant intraocular pressure reduction and systemic vascular disease.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Glaucoma Research
- Vascular Ophthalmology
Background:
- Trabeculectomy with mitomycin C is a common surgical procedure for advanced glaucoma.
- Retinal vein occlusion is a serious vascular complication affecting vision.
Observation:
- This study reviewed three patients who experienced acute retinal vein occlusion post-trabeculectomy with mitomycin C.
- All patients had advanced open-angle glaucoma with severe visual field loss and optic nerve cupping.
- Systemic vascular disease was noted in all affected patients.
Findings:
- A significant decrease in intraocular pressure was observed in the postoperative period for all three patients.
- The retinal vein occlusions occurred immediately following the surgical procedure.
- Susceptible patients with advanced glaucoma and vascular disease appear at higher risk.
Implications:
- A shift in the lamina cribrosa due to perioperative intraocular pressure changes may contribute to venous outflow system occlusion.
- Ophthalmologists should consider retinal vein occlusion as a potential complication in high-risk glaucoma patients undergoing trabeculectomy with mitomycin C.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the exact mechanism and identify preventative strategies.