Canaloplasty versus Viscocanalostomy in Primary Open Angle Glaucoma.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of canaloplasty versus viscocanalostomy in management of uncontrolled primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) with medication.

METHODS: Canaloplasty surgery was applied for thirty eyes of thirty patients (45-55 years) with a mean age of 48 years (Group A) and viscocanalostomy surgery was applied also for thirty eyes of thirty patients (43-54 years) with a mean age of 46 years (group B). All patients were with uncontrolled primary open angle glaucoma by maximally tolerated medical therapy.

RESULTS: Intraocular pressure (IOP) in both surgeries was significantly reduced through follow up period (p < 0.0.001). Complete success was 86.6% in group A and 80% in group B. Visual field deterioration was in 2 cases (6%) in group A and in 4 cases (13%) in group B. Low incidence of postoperative complications was reported as Descemet's membrane detachment (3% in group A and 8% in group B), ocular hypotony (2% in group A and 4% in group B) and hyphema (3% in group A and 5% in group B).

CONCLUSION: Canaloplasty was more effective and safer than viscocanalostomy in management of uncontrolled primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) with medication.