Benefits of anterior chamber paracentesis in the management of glaucomatous emergencies

Anterior chamber paracentesis (ACP) is an alternative technique to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with acute closed-angle glaucoma (ACAG) and requires controlled drainage of aqueous humor from the anterior chamber using a needle or an incision paracentesis with a knife. Purpose. Evaluation of efficacy and safety of AC paracentesis in acute increases of intraocular pressure. Method. This was an observational study done on a group of 24 patients with acute, unilateral increases of IOP> 50mmHg. IOP was measured before, 10 minutes, 1 day, 7 days and 30 days after ACP using applanation tonometry. Results. Intraocular pressure decreased from an average of 52.5 mmHg to 25.5 mmHg to 17.5 mmHg at 10 minutes and 7 days from the ACP. Anterior chamber paracentesis combined with glaucoma medication led to the cessation of symptoms in all patients included in the lot and the resolution of corneal edema in 20 cases. Conclusion. ACP is safe and effective in acute increases of IOP in the acute form of the primary angle closure glaucoma but remains an adjunct to conventional therapy drug. Abbreviations: ACP = anterior chamber paracentesis, IOP = intraocular pressure, ACAG = acute closed-angle glaucoma