Abstract Background: In majority of cases of glaucoma the disease progresses in such a slow symptomfree course, that by the time patient, seeks help from the ophthalmologist, a great deal of permanent damage has occurred already. Thus, delay on the part of patient in many cases is due to his ignorance about glaucoma. The present study was undertaken to assess the efficacy & safety of intraoperative 5 – Fluorouracil in Trabeculectomy. Methods: The present study was undertaken in the Department of Ophthalmology, ARMCH & RC, Kumbhari and cases which were diagnosed clinically as having primary glaucoma with raised intraocular tension were randomly selected to receive or not to receive intraoperative 5 – Fluorouracil application between conjunctival flap and sclera for 1 minute duration. Results: There was 67% reduction in baseline intraocular tension with intraoperative use of 5 – Fluorouracil while 58% reduction in baseline intraocular tension was observed without use of 5 – Fluorouracil. Intraocular tension was controlled below 15 mmHg in 92% cases with intraoperative use of 5 – Fluorouracil and 64% cases without use of 5 – Fluorouracil. In high risk glaucoma, adequate control of intraocular tension was observed with intraoperative use of 5 – Fluorouracil. Conclusion: It is a safe and effective alternative to subconjunctival injections of 5 – Fluorouracil. It is also useful in controlling the intraocular tension in high risk eyes.
Keywords: Glaucoma; Trabeculectomy; 5-Fluorouracil; Visual Acuity; Bleb.