[XEN 45® gel stent implantation in glaucoma surgery: Dual-center comparative study between steroid-induced glaucoma and primary open angle glaucoma]

Introduction: XEN 45® gel stent is an ab interno aqueous humor drainage device indicated for moderate glaucoma refractory to medical management. Its efficacy has been demonstrated in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). However, there are few studies on secondary glaucoma, including steroid-induced glaucoma (CG), defined as optic neuropathy induced by using local or systemic corticosteroids without increased flare.

Methods: We conducted a dual-center comparative cohort study between April 2019 and January 2021. 66 operated eyes were included, divided into two groups: POAG (56 eyes) and GC (10 eyes). The primary endpoint was the relative reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) at three months postoperatively in the GC group. Three outcomes were defined: total success, partial success and failure.

Results: The total success rate was 100% in the GC group and 42.6% in the POAG group. Preoperative IOP was 36.1±9.1mmHg and 19.0±7.3mmHg respectively. IOP reduction was 69.1±11.7% in the GC group and 21.8±30.3% in the POAG group. Patients were younger in the GC group (49.3±21.2 versus 71.1±8.4 years), and preoperative conjunctival preparation was longer in this group (12 versus 5 weeks). The needling rate was 17.9% in the POAG group and 10% in the GC group.

Conclusion: The XEN 45® gel stent is effective in the treatment of steroid-induced glaucoma. Further studies will be required to identify predictive factors for success and to establish criteria for good candidacy.