Glaucoma Practice Patterns: A Survey Among Ophthalmologists From Spanish-Speaking Countries.

To describe the clinical and surgical practice patterns among Spanish-speaking ophthalmologists.

 This cross-sectional, observational, descriptive study surveyed certified general ophthalmologists currently treating patients with glaucoma in Spanish-speaking countries. We included comprehensive ophthalmologists and any subspecialty. 

The survey required a non-probability sampling since it depends on the voluntary participation of a limited group of experts (ophthalmologists). PHASE 1: Questionnaire was pre-tested among glaucoma specialists at a tertiary level ophthalmology hospital in México (Asociación Para Evitar La Ceguera En México, Hospital Dr. Luis Sánchez Bulnes, IAP). PHASE 2: Questionnaire was then sent as an invite (QR code and hyperlink) to multiple ophthalmology societies in Latin America and Spain, between 2023-2024. It consisted of 41 questions divided into socio-demographic, clinical, testing, procedural and surgical categories.

161 replies; 13 countries. 38 out of 161 replied "glaucoma is defined as elevated IOP". Having a glaucoma fellowship training (61%) changes understanding of the disease hence their behavior and decision making. The most frequently used method to mesure IOP was Goldmann (95%). Only 60% mesure pachymetry. To document cupping 96% use optical nerve OCT imaging. First choice treatment in ocular hypertension: 50% topical hypotensive medication, 46% SLT. 85 out of 161 (52%) practitioners perform MIGS on patients with mild to moderate damage who undergo cataract surgery. First choice incisional surgery: trabeculectomy 71.4%. Use of antimetabolites in trabeculectomy: 61.5%. Gucoma quality life questionnaires: only 15 out of 161 (9.3%) use them.

Understanding practice patterns among ophthalmologists when treating glaucoma is important to know If the current evidence-based recommendations of care are being followed. This also reveals if new technology is being adopted and used. Having this information allows us to understand the need to disseminate updated evidence-based and new technology  information in certain medical populations.