Autologous whole blood patch in the repair of leaking filtering blebs : case report on initial experience

Abstract

Aim: To show the value of autologous whole blood patch in the management of leaking filtering blebs in Nigerian eyes.
Methods: Two male patients who had trabeculectomy and adjunctive application of mitomycin C subsequently developed leaking blebs at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria. A 27-gauge needle was used to inject 0.75- 1.0ml of whole blood under the conjunctival buttonhole.
Result: The procedure succeeded in arresting the bleb leak but the trabeculectomy failed after 7 and 10 months respectively. Repeat trabeculectomy using another site remained successful after 2 years and 18 months respectively.
Conclusion: Autologous whole blood patch is successful in sealing leaking blebs complications following trabeculectomy.


Keywords: Autologous, Whole blood, Leaking blebs, Trabeculectomy

Port Harcourt Medical Journal Vol. 2 (1) 2007: pp. 78-80