Sutureless trabeculectomy as a substitute for conventional trabeculectomy in the management of primary open angle glaucoma

Abstract

Aim: To assess the safety and efficacy of sutureless punch trabeculectomy, as a substitute for conventional scleral flap trabeculectomy, in the management of primary open angle glaucoma.Materials and methods: In a prospective, randomized study, 40 eyes of 40 patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), who were candidates of trabeculectomy were included and randomly assigned into two groups, conventional scleral flap trabeculectomy (A) or sutureless scleral tunnel trabeculectomy (B). Assessment of intraoperative complications and postoperative visual acuity, intraocular pressure, antiglaucoma medications used and postoperative complications were followed for a period of 6 months.Results: The mean preoperative IOP in the conventional group was 26.7 3.010 mm Hg and in the sutureless group was 26.6 3.067 mm Hg. The mean reduction in IOP in the conventional group after 6 months was 12.4 0.350 mm Hg and in the sutureless group was 12.3 0.407 mm Hg. The complete success rate in Group A was 55% and in Group B was 50%.No significant difference in complication rate was noted between the two groups.Conclusion: It was seen that the sutureless scleral tunnel trabeculectomy has efficacy and safety comparable to conventional scleral flap trabeculectomy and hence can be used as a substitute for conventional scleral flap trabeculectomy.