In the Collaborative Initial Glaucoma Treatment Study (CIGTS), which treatment arm showed better preservation of quality of life in the long term?
- A Initial trabeculectomy achieved lower IOP but caused more cataract formation ✓
- B Initial medication had better visual acuity outcomes
- C Both arms were identical in visual field outcomes over 5 years
- D Initial medication provided faster IOP control
Correct answer: A. Initial trabeculectomy achieved lower IOP but caused more cataract formation
Explanation
CIGTS showed that initial trabeculectomy achieved significantly lower IOP than initial medication but resulted in higher rates of cataract formation and visual disturbance. Visual field outcomes were similar between the two arms over 5 years. The study was important in demonstrating that trabeculectomy should be considered early in patients at risk of progression, accepting the trade-off of cataract risk. It also highlighted that patient-reported quality of life was comparable in both groups.
Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.