AIM: To explore the clinical efficacy of the Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation for refractory glaucoma. METHODS: The clinic outcomes of 21 cases (21 eyes) with refractory glaucoma were reviewed,all patients underwent the placement of Ahmed glaucoma valve implant. RESULTS:The mean preoperative intraocular pressure(IOP) was 44.6±7.2mmHg. Postoperative 6 months at the last follow-up mean IOP was 15.4±5.3mmHg; Comparing than the preoperative visual acuity, 4 eyes increased, 14 eyes had no changes and 3 eyes decreased. The main postoperative complications included postoperative shallow anterior chamber (2 eyes), retained high IOP (1 eye), tube blockage (1 eye), corneal decompensation (1 eye) and fiber wrap of drainage tray (3 eyes). The procedural success rate at 6 months was 86%. CONCLUSION: Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation may be an effective procedure for refractory glaucoma.