Changes in Ocular Rigidity After Trabeculectomy in Patients With POAG

It has been hypothesized that the biomechanical properties of the optic nerve head and/or sclera play a role in the development of glaucoma. One approach of gaining insight into the biomechanical properties of the eye by the means of clinical studies is based on the Friedenwald equation, representing a pressure-volume relationship. This equation represents the so called ocular rigidity, which expresses the elasticity of the globe. In order to be able to solve the equation, measurements of fundus pulsation amplitude (FPA) with laser interferometry and dynamic contour tonometric assessment of the pulse amplitude (PA) have to be performed. In addition choroidal thickness will be assessed with OCT before and after trabeculectomy, since results in choroidal thickness measurements in patients with glaucoma are controversial. The focus of this study lies on the changes of ocular rigidity and choroidal thickness after surgical trabeculectomy in patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) or pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PEX).

Inclusion Criteria: Men and women aged over 18 years Normal ophthalmic findings except POAG or Pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PEX) Patients scheduled for trabeculectomy Exclusion Criteria: Participation in a clinical trial in the 3 weeks preceeding the study Symptoms of a clinically relevant illness in the 3 weeks before the first study day Presence or history of a severe medical condition that will interfere with the study aim as judged by the clinical investigator Other types of glaucoma, such as pigmentary glaucoma, history of acute angle closure History of previous glaucoma surgery Postoperative IOP ≤ 8 mmHg Ocular inflammation or infection within the past 3 months Topical treatment with any ophthalmic drug except anti-glaucomatous medication