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Needling plus 5-FU injection improves failed filtering blebs, study finds
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FLORENCE, Italy — Bleb needling revision can lower intraocular pressure in eyes with failed filtering blebs, according to a study presented here at the European Glaucoma Society meeting.
David Goh, MD, presented the results of a retrospective review of 30 eyes with follow-up of 1 year after bleb needling and injection of 5-fluorouracil. Bleb needling was performed using a 27-gauge to 30-gauge needle inserted 10 mm from the flap. A sweeping motion was used to break adhesions.
According to Dr. Goh, mean IOP decreased from 25 mm Hg before needling to 15.6 mm Hg after needling. Eight eyes (27%) achieved an IOP of 20 mm Hg or less without additional medication and were considered total successes. Another 14 eyes (47%) that required additional glaucoma medications to achieve similar IOPs were considered partially successful. Seven eyes (23%) had IOPs greater than 20 mm Hg and were considered failures.
Dr. Goh said his study results were similar to other retrospective studies. He said prospective studies evaluating the use of antimetabolites in needling procedures are in progress.