The Use of Processed Pericardium in the Repair of Corneo-Scleral Fistulas

Explantation of glaucoma valve implants may be complicated by wound closure problems. Prolonged implantation of these valves can lead to development of corneo-scleral fistulas that may not be adequately sealed with the use of sutures alone. The authors report the use of processed pericardium as tissue replacement material for the repair of such fistulas. A 45-year-old woman underwent explantation of a Baerveldt glaucoma valve implant, resulting in the development of a corneo-scleral fistula. To repair the fistula, processed pericardium was inserted into it and secured with 10-0 nylon sutures. Postoperatively, a good wound seal was achieved with no leakage of aqueous humor from the anterior chamber, nor any inflammation. Processed pericardium appears to be an effective tissue replacement material for sealing corneo-scleral fistulas.