The development and management of neovascular glaucoma

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Abstract
Patients with neovascular glaucoma (NVG) often present with neovascularisation of the iris (NVI) already established and prompt energetic treatment of these patients is needed to reverse or stabilise the condition with possible retention of some visual function. In this series if the ocular media were still clear panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) caused regression of NVI in about 60% of cases and if a persistent rise in intraocular pressure (IOP) were still present this could be dealt with by drainage operation, Molteno implant or cyclophotocoagulation. If the media were already opaque or NVI did not regress then a Molteno implant or cyclophotocoagulation was used to reduce the IOP, preserving corneal endothelial function so that a comfortable eye could be obtained. Some regression of the NVI process was likely with time if the IOP were controlled by surgical treatment. Of 32 patients reviewed here, 20 patients developed NVG following a central retinal vein occlusion; in six patients NVG followed diabetic proliferative retinopathy, in five it followed arterial occlusion, and in one it followed an old traumatic retinal detachment. In those patients where NVG followed venous or arterial occlusion the common risk factors were always present. Patients were usually under treatment for their systemic condition but this treatment should be reviewed.