Purpose: To evaluate retrospectively IOP outcomes
after Glaucoma Ahmed Valve implantation.
Material and
methods: 47 refractory glaucoma patients (47 eyes)
were enrolled in the study. Age: 15-64 yrs. Mean IOP level with maximal
pharmacological therapy before surgery: 35.2 (±7.3) mmHg. IOP levels and postoperatives complications were evaluated.
Follow-up has ranged from 6 to 48 months
Results: Mean IOP reduction was 14.4 (±8.4) mmHg. Success was qualified as IOP less
than 21 mmHg and greater than 4 mmHg for 2 months or longer. Success was achieved in 41 eyes (87.2%)
. Mean medication index has dropped from 3.4 to 0.2. Postoperative hypotony
(IOP less than 4 mmHg) was present in 2 eyes (4.25%) which has resolved without
serious sequele. The major complications were: serous choroidal detachments in
7 eyes (14.9%), blockage of the tube in3 eyes (6.4%), malposition of the tube
in 1 eye (2.1%). Conjunctival erosion above external part of the tube was
present in 2 eyes (4.3%).
Conclusion: Ahmed Glaucoma Valve Implant is effective in the surgical management of
refractory glaucoma patients with relatively low rates of complications.