We present the results achieved in 26 cases of trabeculectomy combined with intraocular lens implantation after extracapsular surgery in eyes with open-angle glaucoma. Phacoemulsification was performed in nine cases, planned extracapsular cataract extraction in 17. In 23 eyes, a posterior chamber lens was implanted; in three eyes an anterior chamber lens was used because of a ruptured posterior capsule. After a follow-up period ranging from four to 29 months, the postoperative results were satisfactory in all eyes treated. The patients achieved postoperative intraocular pressure of 20 mm Hg or less. In 28% of the cases, however, additional antiglaucomatous medication is required. Given proper indications and present-day surgical techniques, this combined procedure provides effective one-time treatment for cataract and glaucoma patients as well as optimal visual rehabilitation.

Irradiation of rabbit eyes with high-energy electrons was used to test the inhibition of experimental intraocular proliferation and retinal detachment, produced by intravitreal implantation of 250,000 homologous fibroblasts. After irradiation with 2,000 rad, started 5 days after implantation, 45% of eyes (9 of 20) still manifested traction detachment. When the dose was increased to 3,000 rad and radiation treatment was started 1 day after implantation, proliferation and traction detachment were observed in only 10% of eyes (2 of 20). No acute damage to retinal tissue or nerve fibers was observed. Because it is easily available, simple in application and dose adjustment, and without toxic side effects, radiation therapy should be considered as an effective alternative to drug treatment for the inhibition of intraocular proliferation and detachment. Statistically significant results of this investigation suggest its use combined with surgery in certain reproliferative cases in man.

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The authors report on five cases of severe perforating injury of the posterior segment which were initially treated by vitrectomy and subsequent filling of the vitreous cavity with silicone oil. The results so far have been satisfactory in all eyes. The advantages of the method (e.g., tamponade of retinal tears, facilitation of postoperative laser treatment) are emphasized and possible side effects are discussed.

This study reports 14 patients who presented proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) at stages III to IV, as well as ora dialysis or large retinal breaks of such extent that it was evident that implanted silicone oil would penetrate behind the retina. We used a latex balloon catheter, which was introduced in aphakic eyes into the vitreous cavity, following pars plana vitrectomy and removal of pre- and sometimes subretinal membranes. Under direct observation, the balloon was filled with silicone oil until the balloon occupied the entire globe while the intravitreal and subretinal fluid was drained. Subsequently, the balloon was punctured at the opposite side of the scleral incision so that the silicone oil could drain into the vitreous cavity. The balloon was then slowly withdrawn from the eye. Complications were pre- and subretinal hemorrhages, retinal dialysis behind (2X) and vis-à-vis (4X) the incision. In none of the cases was silicone oil observed to have penetrated behind the retina.