Post-Operative Implant Exposure After Ahmed Glaucoma Valve Implantation: A Case Series

This study aimed to describe the prevalence, risk factors, clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of post-operative Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) tube exposure in patients with a history of glaucoma drainage devices presenting to the Imam Hossein Hospital, Iran.

In this retrospective case series, patients’ records with the diagnosis of glaucoma drainage device exposure were reviewed. Records of eight eyes of eight patients (three males, five females) were examined. The primary outcome of this study was a management technique for glaucoma drainage device exposure.

All patients suffered post-operative implant exposure after Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation for uncontrolled glaucoma. Most patients underwent subsequent glaucoma drainage device placement plus conjunctival graft, and three performed cyclodestructive procedures to control their glaucoma.

Based on the results, the history of past ocular procedures for glaucoma drainage device exposure and poor outcomes following repair in this subset of patients is essential.