Pneumotrabeculoplasty as treatment for primary open angle glaucoma: critical review of the literature

Purpose. To evaluate with criticism the available evidence shown in the literature about the efficacy of pneumotrabeculoplasty (PNT) as a treatment for primary open angle glaucoma. Materials and Methods. PNT is a recent non-surgical and noninvasive technique to safely reduce the intraocular pressure (IOP) in eyes suffering from ocular hypertension or primary open angle glaucoma. The technique consists in the application on the ocular surface of a disposable suction ring that induces a temporary trabecular meshwork stretching, increasing outflow of aqueous humor in the Schlemm’s canal. In our study, we compared the results on the efficacy and safety of this treatment published to date in the literature. Results. During follow-up, Authors have observed significant reductions in IOP in about 70% of treated eyes. The first treatment consists in 3 applications at day 0, 7 and 90, repeatable every 90 days. Immediately after suction ring application there is a significant elevation of IOP, however, of short duration and without demonstrable visual field worsening. Side effects observed are of little clinical significance and spontaneously resolving in a short time. Conclusions. The PNT is a safe and effective technique to reduce IOP in patients with ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma. It is repeatable, but can not replace drug treatment in patients already receiving topical therapy for glaucoma; however, it has proven effectiveness in maintaining an IOP target over time if accompanied with only a single topical drug, favoring a reduction of antiglaucoma drugs in polytherapy and increasing the compliance with treatment