Surgical outcome of phaco-emulsification combined with trabeculectomy in 243 eyes

This study was conducted to determine how phaco-emulsification combined with trabeculectomy influenced intraocular pressure and need for glaucoma medication postoperatively. A retrospective analysis was undertaken of results relating to 243 eyes of 195 patients who had undergone phaco-emulsification combined with trabeculectomy. Pre-operative intraocular pressure decreased from a mean of 22.0 mmHg to 12.5 mmHg one week postoperatively with an average change of 9.5 mmHg. One month postoperatively, 70% of patients were without glaucoma medication. Visual acuity had improved in 80% of eyes. Phaco-emulsification combined with trabeculectomy resulted in excellent glaucoma control, good visual recovery and a need for fewer glaucoma drugs.