<p>Prospective Studies of Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgeries: Systematic Review and Quality Assessment</p>

Abstract

Glaucoma is a common blinding disease; while there is no cure, effective treatments include medications, laser, and incisional surgery. There is significant interest from patients and doctors to develop safer surgical options throughout the spectrum of disease, to minimize treatment burden in mild glaucoma patients and to minimize risk of complications in patients needing more aggressive treatment. Surgical procedures called Minimally or Micro-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) are growing in popularity. Eightyseven prospective studies on MIGS were identified and assessed for quality. Most (74%) did not have a control group. Twelve of the highest quality were reviewed. MIGS procedures appeared to have fewer complications, and lowered intraocular pressure, and reduced medication use. Studies were limited by small sample size, narrow spectrum of glaucomatous disease, and/or conflicts of interest. There is a need for high quality, independently funded and performed, comparative studies on the MIGS to help make treatment decisions.

Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery devices in glaucoma: A time for reflection

“…It was a promising player in the MIGS space; however, a 5-year study found an increased rate of endothelial cell loss compared to cataract surgery alone, and in late 2018, it was recalled from the market. [ 9 ]…”

Long-term outcomes of two first-generation trabecular micro-bypass stents (iStent) with phacoemulsification in primary open-angle glaucoma: eight-year results

“…Over the past decade, and with the advent of minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGSs), the field of glaucoma has witnessed an explosion of new surgical techniques and research examining their efficacy and safety [ 10 , 11 ]. MIGSs are advantageous due to their superior safety compared to traditional incisional glaucoma surgeries, minimal disruption of conjunctival and scleral tissue, faster recovery time, and compatibility with concurrent cataract surgery, while also offering a modest efficacy [ 12 ].…”

Twelve-month surgical outcome and prognostic factors of stand-alone ab interno trabeculotomy in Japanese patients with open-angle glaucoma

“…The demand for minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), which can achieve a significant reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) with fewer adverse events than do traditional surgical procedures, has been increasing [1][2][3][4][5][6]. Trabeculotomy is a type of glaucoma surgery that is used to cleave the trabecular meshwork (TM) and the inner wall of the Schlemm's canal (SC), where the main sites of resistance to aqueous outflow are thought to reside [7][8][9].…”