Ocular concentrations of mitomycin C using different delivery devices

Hypotony and its sequelae are a frequent complication of trabeculectomies performed with mitomycin C (MMC), possibly related to intraocular toxicity of the substance. In an animal model with rabbits, we used different devices for the application of MMC and measured extra-and intraocular concentrations by HPLC. In addition, the concentrations of MMC remaining in the devices were determined. The devices were (1) a regular surgical sponge, (2) a scleral shield, (3) a presoaked soft contact lens, (4) a soft contact lens with MMC application, and (5) subconjunctival injection. Ocular concentrations of MMC were similar within the first 4 groups and were highest in the last. The measurements suggest that MMC penetrates intraocularly regardless of the device used. The variability of remaining MMC concentrations in the devices was lowest in the soft contact lenses suggesting an improved delivery system compared to the usually used surgical sponges.