Etiopathogenesis of secondary glaucoma following vitreoretinal surgeries

Vitreoretinal surgical procedures represent a significant risk factor for secondary glaucoma development. The mechanisms leading to elevated IOP are diverse and can cause secondary openand closed-angle glaucoma, as well as acute and chronic forms of the disease. Intravitreal aplication of expansive gases and drugs can lead to pupillary block and an acute rise in IOP. Also, secondary angle-closure glaucoma can occur after conventional (scleral buckling) surgery due to congestion and anterior rotation of the ciliary body or due to the synechial angle closure. Secondary open-angle glaucoma is most often caused by blockage of the trabecular meshwork by silicone oil particles. Understanding the etiopathogenesis of secondary glaucoma in each specific case is crucial for successful treatment and the application of an adequate treatment method considering the many different mechanisms causing the IOP rise.