Phacoemulsification vs. SLTPhacoemulsification vs SLT as Initial Treatment for Pseudoexfoliation Glaucoma

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Pseudoexfoliation syndrome, detected at slit-lamp examination by exfoliative material on anterior capsule, pupil, or anterior chamber angle
2. Clinical decision to lower the IOP, as assessed by the investigator who is treating the subject, based on the presence of PXG or with IOP elevated enough to warrant treatment, even without clear evidence of optic nerve damage or visual field defect
3. Presence of asymptomatic early cataract

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Age less than 50 years old
2. Anterior chamber angle closure at gonioscopy, defined as pigmented trabeculum visible in less than 180º
3. Previous IOP lowering procedure such as trabeculoplasty, trabeculectomy, or minimally invasive glaucoma surgery
4. Previous use of IOP lowering medication for more than 6 months
5. Presence of ocular or systemic pathology or medication that could significantly influence the IOP, such as: uveitis, neovascular or traumatic glaucoma, corneal pathology influencing tonometry, use of oral steroids
6. IOP at baseline visit higher than 36 mmHg
7. Visual field damage at baseline visit with mean deviation worse than -15 dB
8. Not able or willing to provide voluntary, informed consent to participate in the study