Efficacy of deep sclerectomy using the transverse peeling technique: short-term outcomes.

PURPOSE: Determination of the efficacy of Sirhy's transverse peeling technique, a modification of traditional deep sclerectomy that involves the creation of a wider and longer deep scleral flap to increase aqueous humor drainage. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study conducted on patients who underwent deep sclerectomy using the transverse peeling technique for the management of glaucoma. Complete success was defined as an intraocular pressure of ≤ 21 mmHg when the patient was off all intraocular pressure-lowering medications. However, qualified success was defined as an intraocular pressure of ≤21 mmHg when the patient was on additional intraocular pressure-lowering medication or laser goniopuncture. Failure was classified as an intraocular pressure of >21 mmHg at 6 months or the need for additional glaucoma interventions. RESULTS: Forty-one eyes and 39 patients were included in this study. The mean preoperative intraocular pressure was 21.78 ± 7.62 mmHg, which was significantly reduced to 13.76 ± 3.95 mmHg postoperatively, with a complete success rate of 80.5%, a qualified success rate of 17.1%, and a failure rate of 2.4%. CONCLUSION: Deep sclerectomy using the transverse peeling technique is a novel approach that results in better control of intraocular pressure, a reduced need for post-operative antiglaucomatous medications, and a decreased requirement for goniopuncture.