AIM:To evaluate the efficacy of EX-PRESS glaucoma filtration device combined with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation for refractory glaucoma complicated with cataract.

METHODS: Totally 60 patients(60 eyes)of refractory glaucoma were chosen as the research objects between January 2013 and January 2016 in our hospital, who were divided into research group and the control group according to the operation method. Research group(29 patients 29 eyes)was given EX-PRESS glaucoma drainage device combined with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation; control group(31 patients 31 eyes)was given trabeculectomy combined with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation. The visual acuity, intraocular pressure(IOP), the successful rate and other clinical indicators were observed and analyzed.

RESULTS: The surgery of all the 60 patients achieved success.The successful rate of research group was 93%, that of control group was 81%, while the difference was not significant(P=0.26). The best corrected visual acuity(BCVA)of both groups was better than before treatment at 6mo after surgery without statistically significant. The postoperative BCVA was not different between the two groups. The IOP between the two groups was significantly different(P<0.05). The IOP of research group at 1d, 1 and 3mo was significantly lower than control group(P<0.05). The IOP at 6mo after surgery was not significantly between the two groups. The IOP at different time was significantly different(P<0.05). The IOP at 1d after surgery was significantly different compared to that at 6mo(P=0.007).

CONCLUSION:It has good clinical effect that EX-PRESS glaucoma filtration device combined with phacoemulsification for refractory glaucoma complicated with cataract. It is a treatment with high feasibility, safety and effectiveness.