AIM:To investigate the clinical effects of compound trabeculectomy for refractory glaucoma.METHODS: Fifty-nine eyes 59 cases of refractory glaucoma were randomly divided into two groups:35 cases 35 eyes in observe group underwent compound trabeculectomy and 24 cases 24 eyes in control group underwent trabeculectomy.The postoperative intraocular pressure(IOP),filtration,the depth of anterior chamber and postoperative complications were observed between the two groups.RESULTS:In the follow-up of 12 months,59 eyes were successfully healed.The incidence rate of shallow anterior chamber in observe group and control group was 6% and 29% respectively(P<0.05) on the first day of postoperation.12 months later, the eyes with intraocular pressure from 6 to 21mmHg in observe group and control group were 30 eyes(86%) and 15 eyes(62%) respectively(P<0.05).Functional filtering bubles were 86% and 62% respectively(P<0.05).CONCLUSION:Compound trabeculectomy is effective and safe for refractory glaucoma.