Canadian Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma Trial: Comparing Phacoemulsification and Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty as Initial Treatments

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating two initial treatment options for patients newly diagnosed with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma who need to lower their intraocular pressure (IOP). This randomized clinical trial compares Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), a laser treatment targeting the eye's drainage system, and Phacoemulsification (PHACO), a procedure that removes the lens. The study focuses on patients who also have early, symptom-free lens clouding and aims to determine which treatment better controls IOP without medication over two years. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the PHACO procedure or SLT. Those who do not reach their target IOP with the initial treatment will then receive medication to lower IOP. The study follows guidelines from the Canadian Ophthalmological Society for managing glaucoma. Longer-term outcomes will be assessed through chart reviews at five and ten years after treatment. During the study, patients will be monitored regularly for two years to assess their IOP control without medication as the main outcome. Secondary measures include changes in IOP, timing of medication use, visual function reported by patients, and any side effects. The research team will also review records at 5 and 10 years to gather extended follow-up data. Overall participation may last a decade for those involved in long-term monitoring.

Phacoemulsification vs SLT as Initial Treatment for Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma