Modified 360-degree suture trabeculotomy for pseudoexfoliation glaucoma: 12-month results

Purpose: We aimed to evaluate the 12-month results of a modified 360-degree suture trabeculotomy (ST) technique in patients with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (XFG). Patients and Methods: The modified 360-degree ST was performed on 20 eyes of 20 consecutive patients with XFG resistant to maximal topical treatment. In 8 patients, ST was combined with phacoemulsification. The main outcome measures were the surgical success rate, the mean postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP), the number of antiglaucoma medications, and the operative complications. Results: The baseline IOP (26.55±8.91) and medications (3.15±0.81) decreased significantly to 10.90±2.73mm Hg and 0.30±0.80, respectively, at 12 months postoperatively (P<0.001). The magnitude of IOP reduction was 58.9%. Complete and qualified success rates were 68.4% and 94.7%, respectively. The entire circumference of Schlemm's canal was opened successfully in all cases. Hyphema, perforation of the trabeculodesmetic window, posterior synechia, peripheral anterior synechia, and a transient elevation of the IOP were noted. The results are comparable to our 6-month results and other previously published results for circumferential trabeculotomy. Conclusions: The modified 360-degree ST provides a feasible choice in patients with XFG with a reasonable rate of complications. The 12-month success rates are promising. It can also be combined effectively with the current cataract surgery.