Every day problems in patients with secondary glaucoma surgery after stereotactic irradiation of the eye globe

Aim: After irradiation of intraocular tumor secondary radiation related side effects like secondary glaucoma (SG) can appear after the therapy. This study describes the incidence of SG in patients after stereotactic surgery (SRS) and problems in everyday life after treatment. Method: The data of 95 patients treated by SRS were reviewed for SG treatment (cyclocryotherapy, enucleation) in one center with follow up regularly at least 4 times per year. Patients got a questionnaire and answered questions dealing their quality of everyday life. Results: In group of 95 patients with the median age 62 years, the median tumor volume at baseline was 0.4 cm3 and surgical treatment of secondary glaucoma - cyclocryotherapy was necessary in 15 patients (15.8 %). In 6 patients (6.3 %) secondary enucleation was necessary due to complications and SG. Both predictors as tumor volume and age of patient at the time of SRS were not significant to develop secondary glaucoma. Conclusions: Complications like SG in 5 year interval after irradiation can lead to secondary glaucoma and in some cases also enucleation of the eye globe. The quality of life was determined with the surgery.