Pericardial patch grafts in glaucoma implant surgery.

February 27, 1998
Peer-Reviewed Journals, Publications

PURPOSE:

The authors determine the safety and effectiveness of pericardial patch grafts in glaucoma implant surgery.

METHODS:

A retrospective chart review was conducted on all patients who underwent a glaucoma implant procedure with the use of a pericardial patch graft to cover the subconjunctival portion of the tube at The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary between September 1, 1995 and June 30, 1996. Charts were assessed for evidence of delle formation, graft rejection, graft-related infection, graft thinning, or tube erosion.

RESULTS:

Forty-four eyes of 44 patients were enrolled. Mean follow-up was 10.2 +/- 4.0 months (range, 2.3 to 18.6 months). Infection, tube erosion, graft rejection, and graft-related inflammation did not occur. Five eyes were noted to have asymptomatic thinning of the patch without evidence of tube erosion.

CONCLUSIONS:

Preserved human cadaveric pericardial patch grafts appear to be well-tolerated for use with glaucoma drainage devices. As with other grafting material, potential for graft thinning is possible and further long-term experience is needed.

Originally Published on Pub Med

Tal Raviv, MD Administrator

Tal Raviv, MD, FACS is an experienced and recognized ophthalmologist, cataract and refractive surgeon, national thought leader, and teacher. As founder and medical director of Eye Center of New York, Dr. Raviv offers state-of-the-art technologies in laser refractive cataract surgery, advanced lens implants, and bladeless LASIK. Dr. Raviv was one of the first doctors in New York to use the Femtosecond laser for the highest precision in cataract surgery. He frequently contributes to local news broadcasts about the latest medical innovations.