Anterior-Segment Optical Coherence Tomography-Based Evaluation of the Journey of a Bleb in the Early Postoperative Period.

Introduction In the early postoperative period following trabeculectomy, monitoring the journey of bleb formation is crucial for assessing surgical success. Anterior-segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) emerges as a powerful tool in this pursuit, offering high-resolution imaging of bleb morphology and dynamics. This study aims to evaluate the internal structure of blebs through their maturation phases using AS-OCT. Methods Fifty-five eyes undergoing trabeculectomy were enrolled in a prospective observational study. Serial AS-OCT examinations were done on day 1, week 1, week 3, and week 6 postoperatively; bleb parameters were calculated and correlated with intraocular pressure (IOP). Results IOP control was seen in 45 eyes six months of post-trabeculectomy. Multiform bleb wall reflectivity (BWR) statistically correlates with the success of trabeculectomy. Blebs were successful if BWR showed no change from day 1 to week 6. BWR remained the same on all follow-ups if week 1 bleb wall thickness (BWT) was less than 129.5 microns with 82.6% sensitivity and 83.3% specificity. The cumulative hazard of change in BWR is estimated to be approximately 5.6%, 15.7%, and 17.9% at week 1, week 3, and week 6 follow-ups, respectively. Conclusions Successful blebs showed consistent BWR from day 1 to week 6 of follow-up. Serial AS-OCT examination for changes in BWR in early stages can be done to predict the fate of bleb. The maximum change in BWR occurs between the week 1 and week 3 follow-up periods requiring close follow-up.