Pneumatic trabeculoplasty with prostaglandin monotherapy an option for lowering IOP

PARIS — Pneumatic trabeculoplasty associated with prostaglandin monotherapy may be a treatment method for primary open-angle glaucoma, according to one surgeon here.

Jean-Philippe Nordmann

The IOP-lowering effect in pneumatic trabeculoplasty is obtained through the application of a suction ring over the corneal limbal area above the collector channel/trabecular meshwork complex. Suction is applied for a period of 1 to 2 minutes, stretching the trabeculum to increase the aqueous outflow.

“A total of 57 eyes were evaluated in a multicenter, prospective study. Progressive IOP lowering was observed, with a mean decrease of 5 mm Hg at 6 months. At this time point, 75% of the patients had their IOP reduced by 15% and 45% of the patients by 30%,” Jean-Philippe Nordmann, MD, said at the meeting of the French Society of Ophthalmology.

The treatment was well tolerated, and no severe secondary effects were observed.

This treatment modality has several advantages, Dr. Nordmann said.

“It is noninvasive, easy, quick and not expensive. It does no harm to the eye, and though the effects are quite long-lasting, it can be repeated if needed,” Dr. Nordmann said.

To minimize the use of medications, pneumatic trabeculoplasty may be the best option in pregnant women, patients with poor compliance, allergic patients and young patients.

Disclosure: Dr. Nordmann has no relevant financial disclosures.