AIM: To explore the safety and efficacy of Ex-press glaucoma value implantation for the treatment of refractory glaucoma.

METHODS:The data of 22 patients(23 eyes)with refractory glaucoma received implantation of Ex-press glaucoma value were retrospectively analyzed. The visual acuity, intraocular pressure(IOP)and complications in all patients were observed before and after operation in 1wk, 2mo, 3mo, 6mo and 12mo.

RESULTS:All patients were followed up for 1y. The complete success rate was 52%(12 eyes), the partial success rate was 22%(5 eyes)and the total success rate was 74%. The IOP of preoperative and postoperative 1wk, 1mo, 2mo, 3mo, 6mo, and 12mo was 40.59±11.11, 10.30±5.07, 12.23±4.03, 13.87±4.62, 16.52±6.09, 18.35±7.06 and 19.65±8.26 mmHg,(1mmHg=0.133 KPa)respectively. Postoperative IOP at every time point was significantly decreased compare to preoperation(P<0.01). The visual acuity was significantly improved postoperatively(P<0.01). Postoperative hyphema were found in 3 eyes, transient low IOP in 2 eyes, and choroids detachment in 1 eye. All of these complications appeared at the early postoperative stage and healed within 4-14d. No other complications were observed.

CONCLUSION:Ex-press glaucoma value implantation seemed to be one of the most safe and effective way in treatment of refractory glaucoma.