Analysis of Efficacy and Safety of Pediatric Ahmed Glaucoma Valve (FP8) in Advanced Age Populations.

PRECIS

The FP8 glaucoma valve was demonstrated to be reasonably safe with reliable results in an advanced age patient population.

PURPOSE

As life expectancy increases, a growing number of patients with glaucoma are of an advanced age. There are little to no data looking at glaucoma surgical treatment options in patients over the age of 85. Our study describes the safety and efficacy of the FP8 Ahmed glaucoma valve in this patient population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective study of patients over 85 years of age undergoing FP8 Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation. Preoperative age, sex, intraocular pressure (IOP), and number of glaucoma medications were recorded. Primary outcome variables were IOP and number of medications. Secondary outcome variables included any intraoperative or postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Mean IOP preoperatively was 26 mm Hg on an average of 3 glaucoma medications (n=56). IOP was significantly reduced at all time points in follow-up for an overall reduction of 42% at 1 year and 46% at 2 years. Mean IOP at 1 year follow-up was 15 mm Hg and 14 mm Hg at 2 years follow-up. Glaucoma medications were reduced from a mean of 3 preoperatively to 2 postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Implantation of an FP8 Ahmed glaucoma valve is a relatively safe procedure to achieve satisfactory IOP and decreased reliance on glaucoma medications in an advanced age population.