Intraoperative 5-fluorouracil Augmentation of Trabeculectomy

Glaucoma is the commonest cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Treatment is initially with topical medication, but when the intraocular pressure is still poorly controlled, surgical treatment is required. The surgical treatment of choice remains the trabeculectomy and this is often augmented with antimetabolite. The choice of antimetabolite varies between surgeons, as does the indications for use. Postoperative delivery of the drug can be uncomfortable for the patient and time consuming. This study examines the potential benefits and side effect profile of intraoperative 5FU compared to unaugmented trabeculectomy. The patients are recruited from Moorfields Eye Hospital and followed up by the staff from the glaucoma department.