Review of recent publications of the Advanced Glaucoma Intervention Study

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review summarizes and evaluates the published reports of the Advanced Glaucoma Intervention Study (AGIS) in the years 2001 and 2002. AGIS evaluated two treatment sequences in medically uncontrolled open-angle glaucoma. Notable initial findings of AGIS included the presence of a race-treatment interaction for the treatment sequences of argon laser trabeculoplasty and trabeculectomy, and that lower intraocular pressures were associated with a reduced progression of visual field damage.

Recent findings: More recent findings of AGIS include (1). confirmation and quantification of an increased risk of cataract formation following trabeculectomy; (2). identification of risk factors for failure of argon laser trabeculoplasty and trabeculectomy, and the impact of complications on the success of these treatments; and (3). further delineation of a differential response to surgical treatment between black and white patients.

Summary: AGIS publications in 2001 and 2002 provide new information regarding the complications and outcomes of surgically treated open-angle glaucoma.