Purpose: To find out the frequency and time of extraction of releasable sutures (RS) in the first and second operated eye. Methods: In a retrospective study, 40 patients with primary open glaucoma were followed. Patients underwent trabeculectomy with two RS on both eyes. The trabeculectomy was perfomed by the same surgeon and by the identical method. Results: It was not necessary to remove RS postoperatively in 30% of the first operated eyes and in 35% of the second operated eyes. One RS was removed in 37,5% of the first and 32,5% of the second eyes. Two RS were removed equally in 32,5% of both eyes. The differences of RS extraction on the first and on the second eye were not significant (p = 0.76). The extraction time was similar in both eyes, too. Conclusion: There is no difference between the first and second operated eye regarding the frequency and time of extraction RS.

        Key words: glaucoma, releasable suture, trabeculectomy