Polyglactin sutures versus nylon sutures for scleral flap suturing in trabeculectomy.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

To note the effect on filtration function of using polyglactin sutures for scleral flap suturing in trabeculectomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Polyglactin sutures were compared with nylon sutures to secure the scleral flap of trabeculectomy in 30 consecutive eyes. Parameters studied were intraocular pressure, central anterior chamber depth, and bleb score in this randomized prospective study.

RESULTS

Observations regarding intraocular pressure, central anterior chamber depth and bleb score in the early postoperative period were comparable in the 2 groups. The results at 12 months follow-up reveal a lower mean IOP (P < 0.05) and a higher mean bleb score (P < 0.05) in the group with polyglactin sutures. Success rate (defined as IOP < 21 mm Hg) at 12 months was 100% with use of polyglactin sutures compared to 80% with nylon sutures.

CONCLUSIONS

Polyglactin sutures can be used as an alternative to nylon sutures for scleral flap suturing in trabeculectomy, with the possible additional benefit of better long-term filtration function.