Feltgen N., Ott B., Frenz M., Funk J.

Albert-Ludwigs-Universität, Augenklinik, Freiburg

Background: The endoscopic controlled Erbium:YAG goniotomy lowers the intraocular pressure by an improved outflow into Schlemm´s canal. We report our clinical results and compare these to those of a group operated by standard fistulation surgery.
Patients and Methods: 46 eyes (41 patients) were operated by endoscopic controlled Erbium:YAG goniotomy together with clear cornea cataract surgery. To date, 21 eyes (21 patients) finished the 1 year followup. The longest follow-up period was 3 years. In the control group cataract surgery was combined with standard trabecelectomy. This group was analysed retrospectively.
Results: The mean intraocular pressure in the laser treated group was lowered from 23.4 (±3.9) to 16.4 (±2.9) mmHg (p=0,0008). The treatment was regarded as successful in 81% of these eyes. The mean intraocular pressure in the control group was lowered from 22.8 (±3.6) to 15.6 (+-3.9) mmHg (p<0,0001). The success rate was 74 % respectively. The number of reoperations was significantly lower in the laser treated group (p= 0.03; n=3) as compared to the control (n= 15). Additionally, the number of postoperative complications (p<0.0001) and hospitalization (p<0.0001) were significantly lower in the laser treated group.
Conclusions: Combined Erbium:YAG goniotomy and cataract surgery lowers the intraocular pressure and is comparable to combined cataract surgery and trabecelectomy. Because of fewer postoperative complications Erbium:YAG goniotomy is regarded to be superior to standard fistulation surgery.

Copyright © Deutsche Ophthalmologische Gesellschaft, 2001. All rights reserved.

Last updated: 

Webdesign: SPALLEK.COM