AIM: To investigate the efficacy of 23G minimally vitrectomy without irrigation in cataract phacoemulsification and trabeculectomy of malignant glaucoma, and to analyze such compound operative procedures for phakic malignant glaucoma.

METHODS:A total of 21 phakic malignant glaucoma patients(21 eyes)underwent anterior vitrectomy without irrigation by using 23G vitrectomy. During surgical course phacoemulsification with anterior and posterior continuous circular capsulorhexis, trabeculectomy combined with iridectomy would be completed. Intraocular pressure, anterior chamber depth changes and postoperative complications were observed after the operation.

RESULTS:In the three-month follow-up, intraocular pressures were reduced from(57.18±6.18)mmHg to(16.15±2.43)mmHg, there was statistical difference compared with pre-operation(P<0.001). The preoperative anterior chamber depth(ACD)was(0.88±0.25)mm, the postoperative ACD was(2.44±0.37)mm 3mo later, there were significant difference(P<0.001). The best corrected visual acuity improved significantly, no serious postoperative complication appeared.

CONCLUSION:The compound surgical method of anterior vitrectomy combined with phacoemulsifier and trabeculectomy can effectively treat phakic malignant glaucoma. Early diagnosis and early compound surgery may effectively reduce the intraocular pressure of malignant glaucoma.