Long-term outcomes of Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation in glaucoma patients

Background To evaluate the efficacy of Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation in treating refractory glaucoma and analyze the factors influencing the surgical success rate. Methods A 5-year retrospective analysis was conducted on 199 patients with neovascular glaucoma, secondary glaucoma (excluding neovascular types), and residual glaucoma treated with AGV, model FP7. Preoperative and postoperative data, including intraocular pressure (IOP), visual acuity, and surgical outcomes, were analyzed. Results Complete Success rates were 60.5%, 56%, and 39.3% at years 1, 3, and 5, respectively. Overall success rates were 83%, 74.7%, and 67.9% at the same intervals. Visual acuity (VA) showed statistically significant improvement at year 1 (P < 0.05), but changes at years 3 and 5 were not significant (P > 0.05). Low preoperative IOP and the history of pan-retinal photocoagulation (PRP) were identified as protective factors contributing to the success of surgical outcomes at year-1. Conclusion AGV implantation is a safe and effective treatment for neovascular glaucoma. Preoperative IOP and a history of PRP significantly influence surgical success at one year, with success rates declining over 5 years. Careful surgical execution is crucial for achieving optimal outcomes. Trial registration: This retrospective study was registered at the registered in Chinese Clinical Trial Register (ChiCTR2400089879).