Filtering Bleb Characteristics in Combined Cataract Surgery with Ex-PRESS Implant vs. Non-Penetrating Deep Sclerectomy. A Prospective, Randomized, Multi-center Study

Abstract

(1) Background: After filtering surgery, bleb morphology is an indicator of the factors that may determine the final intraocular pressure (IOP). The present study aimed to evaluate and compare filtering bleb characteristics after combined cataract and glaucoma surgery. (2) Methods: We conducted a prospective multi-center randomized trial. Eyes with glaucoma and cataract were randomly assigned to either phacoemulsification and filtration surgery with an EX-PRESS implant (Alcon) or non-penetrating deep sclerectomy (NPDS) with an ESNOPER implant (AJL). The bleb characteristics were assessed with the Moorfields bleb grading system at months 1 and 12 of follow-up, and the relationship with IOP was analyzed. (3) Results: There were significant changes in bleb appearance between the assessments at month 1 and month 12. The changes in bleb appearance were more evident in the EX-PRESS group. The central area in the EX-PRESS group decreased from 2.9 at month 1 to 2.4 at month 12 (p = 0.014). Bleb height in the EX-PRESS group decreased from 2.3 at month 1 to 1.8 at month 12 (p = 0.034). The vascularity of the central area in the NPDS group decreased from 1.8 at month 1 to 1.3 at month 12 (p = 0.02). The maximal bleb area was inversely related (r = −0.39; p = 0.03) to the IOP in the NPDS group at month 1. Vascularity in the central area was directly related (r = 0.39; p = 0.01) to a higher IOP in the EX-PRESS group at month 1. Vascularity in the central area (r = 0.56; p < 0.001) and maximal area (r = 0.37; p = 0.012) at month 1 was directly related to a higher IOP in the EX-PRESS group at month 12. (4) Conclusions: More intense vascularity at month 1 was related to a higher final IOP in the EX-PRESS group. Larger blebs were associated with a lower IOP in the NPDS group.