AIM: To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of a repeated bleb needling technique combined with subconjunctival injection of 5-FU in eyes with previous glaucoma surgery that had malfunctional filtering blebs.

METHODS: A retrospective review of 34 consecutive patients(34 eyes)of repeated bleb needling combined with subconjunctival injection of 5-FU in eyes, which had malfunctional filtering blebs after previous glaucoma surgery in our hospital from March 2009 to February 2013 was performed. The intraocular pressures(IOP), shapes of filtering blebs and complications after surgery were analyzed.

RESULTS: There was significant reduction of mean IOP from 35.51mmHg to 14.43mmHg(P<0.05). The overall success rate was 91%. The general complications included damage of corneal epithelium, conjunctiva torn, and choroidal detachment.

CONCLUSION: Repeated needling with adjunctive 5-FU proved a highly effective, safe alternative to treat malfunctional filtering blebs after previous glaucoma surgery.