Abstract
Purpose :
To illustrate importance of early and appropriate intervention in cases of narrow angle glaucoma (NAG). The roles of several modifiable risk factors (MRFs) influencing outcomes are considered.
Methods :
Two sets of eyes, each representing opposite ends of the spectrum for each risk factor considered, are analyzed both pre- and post-operatively. The following MRFs were considered:
-Distance from specialty center
-Patient’s level of concern
-Frequency of visits to ophthalmologist or optometrist
Following biometric evaluations, including anterior chamber depth (ACD) measurements, cataract extraction/ lens replacements were performed, with only the patient with more severe symptoms also receiving stents. Postoperative biometric evaluations were also conducted.
Results :
Severity at presentation correlated with the MRFs. For both patients and all eyes, interventions resulted in excellent uncorrected visual acuities (UCVAs), reduced intraocular pressures (IOPs), and significantly widened gonioscopic angles.
Conclusions :
Results of refractive lens replacement(s) were consistent with those of the EAGLE study and suggest that early cataract extraction for patients that present with NAGs should be considered as a first line of treatment. Several MRFs play a major role and timeliness of intervention leads to a discernable difference of outcomes. Unlike what has been suggested in the ZAP study, consideration of these MRFs should be taken into account for the treatment of glaucoma worldwide.
This abstract was presented at the 2023 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in New Orleans, LA, April 23-27, 2023.