Identification and management of Descemet’s membrane detachment during glaucoma and cataract surgery

Descemet’s membrane detachment (DMD) is defined as the detachment of Descemet’s membrane that occurs spontaneously or secondary to intraocular surgery. This review focuses on the characteristics and incidence of DMD following phacoemulsification and glaucoma surgery, and aims to compare DMD cases after phacoemulsification (PCE) and different types of glaucoma surgery in terms of incidence, risk factors, clinical manifestations, diagnosis and management strategies. The reported incidence of DMD after PCE ranges from 0 to 5%, and the complication is less frequently observed following glaucoma surgery. Patients with DMD may be asymptomatic or present with severe visual impairment caused by corneal edema, which is associated with the size and location of the detachment. The management of DMD varies according to the primary surgical procedure (PCE or glaucoma surgery), as well as case-specific factors including visual acuity, corneal clarity, and the size and location of the detachment. Longitudinal observational studies are warranted to investigate the underlying cellular mechanisms of DMD. Retrospective studies can be conducted to clarify the incidence and identify all potential risk factors for DMD following glaucoma surgery. In addition, it is crucial to explore all possible risk factors to reduce and prevent this complication.