The use of bioerodible polymers and 5-fluorouracil in glaucoma filtration surgery.

A study was performed to examine the effect of a localized and sustained delivery of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) on the success of glaucoma filtration surgery in 18 rabbits in a prospective, randomized, double-masked and placebo-controlled fashion. A bioerodible polyanhydride composed of bis (p-carboxyphenoxy) propane and sebacic acid was used as the drug carrier. The polymer and 5-FU (20% by weight) were compressed into 3 mm diameter discs, 1 mm thick. The polymer with the 5-FU was randomized to one eye and the fellow eye received the blank polymer. The results showed that intraocular pressures (IOP) were lower in the experimental eyes during the 5th through 17th postoperative days, but eventually both experimental and control eyes returned to preoperative levels. Filtration blebs lasted longer in experimental eyes when compared to control eyes. Implant disappearance occurred after IOP elevations and bleb failure. Eventually, the filtration surgery failed in both the experimental and control rabbit eyes.