Excerpt from Filtering Bleb Complications

Synonyms, Key Words, and Related Terms: buttonhole, tear, dehiscence, retraction, infection, blebitis, endophthalmitis, leakage, dysesthesia, encapsulated bleb, failing bleb, glaucoma

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Background

The consequences of bleb-associated complications include the following, listed in order of potential morbidity: predisposition to or cause of infection, unsatisfactory bleb function (ie, intraocular pressure [IOP] too low, IOP too high), dysesthesia, decreased visual acuity, and/or loss of the globe, which can be the final outcome.

Pathophysiology

The goal of glaucoma filtering surgery is to reduce IOP with surgery. The pressure can be too high or too low following the surgery.

Frequency

United States

Uncommon

Mortality/Morbidity

Bleb complications can be classified according to their vision-threatening potential and impact on quality of life.

All bleb-related complications have infection/endophthalmitis as a possible consequence, with high morbidity. Also, bleb failure with consequent rise in IOP is a possible consequence.

The cost for the individual and the community in terms of discomfort, unplanned care, loss of work time, direct medical expenses, and decrease in visual function cannot be estimated and may be high.

Race

No racial predisposition exists.

Sex

No sexual influence exists.

Age

No influence of age exists.

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