Comparison of different biomaterials for glaucoma drainage devices - Part 2

Background: Inflammation associated with biomaterials may contribute to the failure of glaucoma drainage devices. Objective: To compare the inflammatory reaction associated with the inserti on of Krupin silicone, Molteno polypropylene, and Acrosof end plates in the subconjunctival space of rabbits. Methods: Similar-sized glaucoma end plates made of 3 different biomaterials were sutured to the sclera in the superotemporal quadrant of the rabbit ey e. Thirty eyes of 15 albino New Zealand rabbits were randomly assigned to t he 3 groups. Conjunctival vascular hyperemia was graded in a masked fashion among the 3 groups. At the end of 3 weeks, the enucleated eyes were examin ed histologically and by scanning electron microscopy. Results: Molteno polypropylene was associated with more inflammation both i n clinical observations and based on histological grading. Silicone and Acr osof were associated with less intense inflammation. One polypropylene end plate was extruded on day 21. Conclusions: Polypropylene appears to be more inflammatory than silicone. F lexible biomaterials appear to be less inflammatory than rigid ones. Clinical Relevance: Bleb failure following glaucoma drainage device implant ation could be related to the biomaterial-associated inflammation. Choosing a biomaterial with the least inflammatory potential might enhance the succ ess rate of the glaucoma drainage device.