Posters

Two year follow-up data with a soft and permanent, minimally-invasive ab-interno subconjunctival implant in open-angle glaucoma subjects

Poster Details

First Author: M.Rękas POLAND

Co Author(s):    K. Lewczuk   J. Jabłońska   J. Rudowicz        

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To establish the safety and efficacy of the minimally-invasive ab-interno subconjunctival implant in reducing IOP in mild, moderate and severe open angle glaucoma patients. 107 subjects from 13 surgeons were followed for two years, and their outcomes for mean IOP, IOP change, reduction in medications, and safety were recorded.

Setting:

Ophthalmology Department Milithary Institute of Medicine in Warsaw, Poland

Methods:

Prospective IRB approved evaluation in which a novel minimal-invasive inserter deposits a permanent, gelatin, trans-scleral aqueous drainage tube which connects the anterior chamber to the subjconjunctival space. The dimensions and mechanical attributes of the material are designed to create a gentle and diffuse dispersion of aqueous into the non-dissected Tenon's and subconjunctival space. Effectiveness was assessed by comparing baseline IOP and glaucomatous medications to postoperative values through 24 months (enrollment closed, follow up ongoing). Safety parameters were evaluated using IOP, frequency of patients with loss of visual acuity, and assessment of any adverse events.

Results:

The mean preoperative (best medicated) IOP was 21.8 mmHg. The mean postoperative IOPs were: 15.9 at 12 months, 15.1 at 18 months, and 14.2 at 24 months. The mean decrease in IOP was -5.9 (-27% reduction) at 12 months, -6.8 (-31% reduction) at 18 months, and -7.6 mmHg (-35% reduction) at 24 months. At 12 and 18 months anti-glaucomatous medications were reduced by 64% from the preoperative median of 2.8 (patients not washed out pre-surgery), and by 57% at 24 months. No major adverse events were reported, and only 6% (7 eyes) had another surgical glaucoma procedure by 24 months.

Conclusions:

This minimally-invasive procedure is a safe and effective approach for controlling IOP and reducing glaucoma medications in early through refractory glaucoma patients. Bypassing all potential outflow obstructions, the ab-interno approach obviates the need for a scleral flap thus reducing complications associated with traditional glaucoma surgery. FINANCIAL INTEREST: One of more of the authors... research is funded, fully or partially, by a company producing, developing or supplying the product or procedure presented