Cyclodialysis with Phacoemulsification Shows Sustained IOP Reduction at Two years
SAN DIEGO - A cyclodialysis technique combined with phacoemulsification demonstrated sustained reductions in intraocular pressure (IOP) at two years post-surgery, according to data presented at the American academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) annual meeting. The minimally invasive procedure offers a potential option for patients with glaucoma refractory to traditional medical management.
The study, led by researchers at the Stein Eye Institute at UCLA, evaluated the long-term efficacy of gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy (GATT) performed concurrently with cataract surgery using phacoemulsification. Glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, affects over 80 million people globally. Current treatments, including eye drops, laser procedures, and incisional surgery, often require ongoing management and may not fully control IOP in all patients. This new data suggests a durable solution for a significant patient population.
Researchers enrolled 30 eyes with open-angle glaucoma and cataracts. Following phacoemulsification, GATT was performed by creating a circumferential opening in Schlemm’s canal to enhance aqueous outflow. At two years post-op, mean IOP decreased from 24.1 mmHg preoperatively to 14.8 mmHg (p < 0.001). additionally,76.7% of eyes achieved IOP control with or without glaucoma medications.
“The two-year results are encouraging, demonstrating that GATT combined with phacoemulsification can provide sustained IOP lowering and reduce the need for glaucoma medications,” said principal investigator Dr. Julia L. Haller, Chair of Ophthalmology at UCLA. “This technique represents a valuable addition to the glaucoma surgeon’s armamentarium, particularly for patients with coexisting cataracts.”
The study also reported a favorable safety profile, with no instances of hypotony or vision loss related to the procedure. Further research is planned to compare this combined approach to other glaucoma surgical interventions and to identify patient characteristics that predict optimal outcomes.
