Choroidal effusions after glaucoma surgery.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

A diverse range of surgical approaches are now used for glaucoma management. This review compares the reported rates of serous choroidal effusion and suprachoroidal hemorrhage after various glaucoma surgical procedures. As these complications can be visually devastating, we summarize the current literature on prevention strategies and management.

RECENT FINDINGS

Trabeculectomy remains one of the most effective and widely used glaucoma surgeries, but it is also associated with a significant rate of complications, including serous choroidal effusion and suprachoroidal hemorrhage. Alternative surgical techniques for glaucoma management are increasingly utilized due in part to their lower rate of associated complications. Prevention measures for serous choroidal effusion and suprachoroidal hemorrhage include the recognition of patient risk factors and careful selection of glaucoma surgical technique. Management options include observation, medications, office-based procedures, and surgical interventions directed at maximizing patient outcomes.

SUMMARY

Familiarity with reported rates of postoperative choroidal effusions, patient risk factors, and management strategies will aid in reducing the frequency of these complications and in improving patient care.