Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

MMC in glaucoma filtering surgery

MMC (mitomycin C) inhibits fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis to prevent scarring after glaucoma filtering surgery.

MMC (mitomycin C) inhibits fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis to prevent scarring after glaucoma filtering surgery. Used for Glaucoma filtering surgery (adjunctive intraoperative use to reduce postoperative scarring).

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Mitomycin C is an antiproliferative agent that cross-links DNA and suppresses fibroblast activity at the surgical site. By reducing postoperative scarring and fibrosis of the filtering bleb, MMC helps maintain long-term patency and efficacy of the surgical drainage pathway, thereby sustaining intraocular pressure reduction.

Approved indications

• Glaucoma filtering surgery (adjunctive intraoperative use to reduce postoperative scarring)

Common side effects

• Corneal epithelial toxicity
• Hypotony (excessive intraocular pressure reduction)
• Bleb-related infection / endophthalmitis
• Cataract progression

Key clinical trials

• Preserflo MicroShunt Versus Trabeculectomy (NA)
• XEN Glaucoma Implant for the Management of Operated Uncontrolled Glaucoma: Results and Complications During a Long-Term Follow-Up (NA)
• SCTSC Versus Trabeculectomy in Medically Uncontrolled Open-Angle Glaucoma in Pseudophakic Patients (NA)
• Analysis of Conjunctival Changes as Indicators for Ab-interno Gelatin Microstent Implantation Surgery Outcomes (NA)
• Ologen® Collagen Matrix Versus Mitomycin-C in Patients With Juvenile-onset Open Angle Glaucoma (NA)
• Primary Tube Versus Trabeculectomy Study (PHASE4)
• Modified Trabeculectomy With an ESST Versus Conventional SST for Management of Primary Open Angle Glaucoma (NA)
• Aflibercept as Adjunctive Treatment for Filtration Surgery in Neovascular Glaucoma (NA)

Primary sources

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