Evaluation of filtering blebs using the Wuerzburg bleb classification score compared to clinical findings

Sandra Furrer, Marcel N. Menke, Jens Funk, Marc Töteberg-Harms

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

27 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: To determine the agreement between intraocular pressure and the Wuerzburg bleb classification score, as well as between single items of the score and intraocular pressure. Interobserver variability was analyzed. Methods: 57 post-trabeculectomy eyes were included. Colour photographs were used to score the filtering bleb in accordance to the Wuerzburg bleb classification score by two different examiners. At the same visit, clinical data such as intraocular pressure, best corrected visual acuity, slit lamp biomicroscopy and medical history were obtained by another examiner. Results: After trabeculectomy, 42 out of 57 eyes (73.7%) reached the target pressure (≤21mmHg, and intraocular pressure reduction of at least 20%, without antiglaucoma medication, and without any additional intervention). Fair agreement was found between intraocular pressure and Wuerzburg bleb classification score ≥8 points and ≥7 points (kappa 0.24 and 0.27, respectively). Analyzing the subgroups of the morphological criteria, best agreement was found between occurrence of microcysts and target intraocular pressure (κ 0.22 - 0.34). Conclusions: Evaluating filtering blebs after trabeculectomy by using the Wuerzburg bleb classification score is a good technique for predicting intraocular pressure control in eyes attaining a minimum score of seven points. The presence of microcysts on the filtering bleb predicts that the eye is likely to attain target pressure.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number24
JournalBMC Ophthalmology
Volume12
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - 2012
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Bleb grading
  • Filtering bleb
  • Filtration surgery
  • Glaucoma
  • Trabeculectomy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Ophthalmology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Evaluation of filtering blebs using the Wuerzburg bleb classification score compared to clinical findings'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this