Results of a combined procedure for cataract and glaucoma, using Crozafon‐De Laage punch

PURPOSE: Study the efficacy and safety of a combined procedure for coexisting cataract and open angle glaucoma. METHODS: Forty eyes of 33 patients with cataract and coexisting open angle glaucoma underwent phacoemulsification and trabeculectomy with Crozafon-De Laage punch. Data was recorded from the patients' hospital files and from a questionnaire answered by the patients' regular ophthalmologist. RESULTS: After a mean follow-up time of 20.6 months (SD 4.9, range 12-31) the mean reduction in number of anti glaucoma drugs was 1.2 (SD 1.2) from 2.6 (SD 0.71) before operation to 1.4 (SD 1.12) at last visit (p<0.001). During the same period the mean intraocular pressure (IOP) was reduced from 18.9 (SD 5.2) mm Hg to 14.9 (SD 2.9) mm Hg (p<0.001). The mean visual acuity was preoperatively 0.24 (SD 0.21) and 0.60 (SD 0.35) at last visit. The reasons for visual acuity lower than 0.8 was mainly age related macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma. No serious sight threatening complications were seen. CONCLUSIONS: Combined phacoemulsification and trabeculectomy with Crozafon-De Laage punch is a safe and effective method for improving both visual acuity and control of intraocular pressure in coexistent cataract and open angle glaucoma.