[Implant exposure after viscocanalostomy with reticulated hyaluronic acid (SK-GEL)]

Abstract

Background: Lately, the application of intrascleral implants has been increasingly discussed to improve success rates of nonpenetrating surgery for the treatment of open-angle glaucoma.

Patients and methods: A 36-year-old male patient with medically uncontrolled pigmentary glaucoma underwent viscocanalostomy with intrascleral implantation of reticulated hyaluronic acid (SK-GEL) in his right eye.

Results: The immediate postoperative course was unremarkable with control of intraocular pressure without additional glaucoma medications. At first follow-up, 2 weeks post surgery, conjunctival dehiscence with partial extrusion and exposure of the reticulated hyaluronic acid implant was observed. Under topical tobramycin ointment a gradual limbal readaptation of the conjunctiva over the surface of the exposed parts of the implant with formation of a filtration bleb was noted. Therefore, surgical revision remained unnecessary.

Conclusions: Implant exposure following nonpenetrating antiglaucomatous surgery is a specific complication, which can appear whenever intrascleral implants are used. Depending on the local situation nonsurgical treatment may be successful.