Partial vitreous occlusion of Ahmed glaucoma valve implant with controlled intraocular pressure: a case report

The Ahmed glaucoma valve implant is effective in reducing intraocular pressure, yet it poses a risk of complications such as vitreous occlusion of the tube, potentially resulting in elevated intraocular pressure or retinal issues. Here, I report a distinctive case of partial vitreous occlusion of an Ahmed glaucoma valve implant wherein intraocular pressure could be controlled with the use of topical antiglaucoma medications. An 86-year-old Korean male with primary open-angle glaucoma in the left eye underwent Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation due to uncontrolled intraocular pressure despite maximal medical treatment. At postoperative 1-month, partial vitreous occlusion of the Ahmed glaucoma valve tube with intraocular pressure elevation to 25 mmHg was identified. Despite persistent occlusion after neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser vitreolysis, stable intraocular pressure was achieved with the use of topical antiglaucoma medications throughout the entire follow-up period up to 6 months postoperatively, without retinal complications. This report highlights a unique instance of partial vitreous occlusion of an Ahmed glaucoma valve implant in which intraocular pressure could be managed with medical therapy. In cases where complete vitreous removal is not feasible, close monitoring is recommended for prompt detection and management of potential complications.