Abstract
Purpose :
To investigate filtration bleb vascularization after ab-externo implantation of the Santen Preserflo microshunt using anterior segment OCT-angiography
Methods :
9 patients underwent Preserflo microshunt implantation according to the standard protocol recommended by Santen. The pre- and postoperative drug regimen was according to department standards. At 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 months, 2 months, 3 months and 6 months postoperatively, OCT-A images of the filtration bleb were acquired using a Zeiss Plex Elite 9000 angio-OCT. A 20D add-on lens enabled anterior segment imaging with the device. A 3x3 mm rectangle (posterior pole scale, equals approx. 6x6 mm on the anterior surface) was imaged. Vascularization was assessed by calculating the perfusion density using algorithms provided by Zeiss (ARI network)
Results :
Perfusion density in the filtration bleb was 30.82, 26.33, 29.09, 29.06 and 25.09 respectively (1w, 2w, 1m, 2m, 3m, 6m) (p=0,432). IOP decreased from 21,85 ± 6,80 mmHg to 7,69 ± 1,77 mmHg, 8,54 ± 1,98 mmHg, 10,84 ± 2,71 mmHg, 11,92 ± 4,21 mmHg, 11,08 ± 4,66 mmHg and 13,40 ± 8,99 mmHg.
Conclusions :
The present study demonstrates that the perfusion density algorithm on the Zeiss Plex Elite can be used to monitor filtration bleb vascularization longitudinally. Larger cohorts are needed to gain insight in the relationship between bleb vascularization and surgical outcome
This abstract was presented at the 2022 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Denver, CO, May 1-4, 2022, and virtually.