Suture Distension of Schlemm's Canal in Canaloplasty: An Anterior Segment Imaging Study

Purpose. The object of this study was to investigate the role of the suture stent regarding its impact on reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) in canaloplasty based on the distension of the inner wall of Schlemm's canal. Methods. Nineteen glaucoma patients who underwent canaloplasty with successful positioning of the tensioning suture were included. The measurements were analyzed using linear mixed models, with the means adjusted to IOP, age, cup-to-disc ratio, and time of follow-up. Results. Mean follow-up time was 27.6 months (SD 10.5). Mean intraocular pressure (IOP) was 24.6 mmHg (SD 5.29), 13.8 (SD 2.65), and 14.5 (SD 0.71) before surgery, at 12 months, and at 36 months after surgery, respectively. 57.9% of patients had no medication at last evaluation. Differences and variations of measurements between the devices over a time of 12 months were not significant (p = 0.15 to 0.98). Some angles of distension associated with the suture stent inside SC were predictive for IOP reduction (p < 0.03 to < 0.001), but not for final IOP (p = 0.64 to 0.96). Conclusion. The angles of the inner wall of Schlemm's canal generated by the suture stent were comparable between OCT and UBM and did not change significantly over time. There was a tendency towards a greater distension of Schlemm's canal, when the difference was larger between pre- and postoperative IOP, suggesting the tensioning suture may contribute to IOP reduction.