Antiscarring agents in glaucoma surgery: a literature review:

Abstract

Glaucoma filtering surgery has been gaining popularity as an early surgical intervention in glaucoma management. A thorough review of the literature revealed that the incidence of failure in glaucoma filtering surgery may be reduced with the use of antiscarring agents. Based on the published research, we hereby discuss the available types of antiscarring agents, their regimes, and their complications. Among the drugs used, mitomycin C and 5-fluorouracil are the most prominent. We discuss the indications for their use, mode of action, dosage, techniques, and duration of usage as well as complications. Although these agents have proven efficacy, they also increase the risk of complications. While newer agents have shown promising results, the long-term complications of these drugs are still inconclusive. We also explain the new agents and methods under investigation to control wound healing after filtration surgery. This is a crucial area to explore, as most of these agents are not tissue-selective and therefore their benefits must be weighed against their possible risks.