The use of glaucoma shell tamponade in leaking filtration blebs.

Our experience with the use of glaucoma shell tamponade for bleb leaks in six patients is described. All patients had posterior lip sclerectomies, with leaking blebs diagnosed intraoperatively (2 patients), early (2 patients) and late (2 patients) following surgery. The glaucoma shell works by applying a high resistance to excessive aqueous humor run-off through the leaking wound, and promotes conjunctival epithelial closure by approximating the wound edges. In all six cases the use of the glaucoma shell tamponade was fully effective. The leaks were sealed off and diffuse functioning filtering blebs were maintained, with very low intraocular pressure. We recommend the use of the glaucoma shell tamponade as the treatment of choice for bleb leaks prior to considering surgical repair.