Tower microneedle minimizes vitreal reflux in intravitreal injection

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Intravitreal injection is a common method for delivering drugs to the posterior segment of the eye.
• Complications include increased intraocular pressure, infection, and drug reflux, which challenges dose control.
• Drug loss through backward effusion after injection complicates maintaining therapeutic drug levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a novel Tower Microneedle device for intravitreal injection.
• To compare the Tower Microneedle with traditional hypodermic needles regarding drug reflux, bleb formation, and dosage.
• To assess the potential of the Tower Microneedle to reduce complications and improve drug delivery efficiency.

Main Methods:

• A novel Tower Microneedle with a smaller outer diameter was developed and tested.
• Phenylephrine hydrochloride was used to induce pupil expansion as a model for drug delivery.
• Comparisons were made between the Tower Microneedle and a 31 Gauge hypodermic needle regarding reflux, bleb formation, and pupil expansion over time.

Main Results:

• The Tower Microneedle demonstrated reduced initial reflux and bleb formation compared to conventional hypodermic needles.
• Similar pupil expansion was achieved with the Tower Microneedle using half the volume of phenylephrine hydrochloride.
• The study confirmed decreased backward drug effusion with the Tower Microneedle, leading to more efficient drug delivery.

Conclusions:

• The Tower Microneedle offers a promising alternative for intravitreal injections, minimizing drug reflux and bleb formation.
• This novel device enables effective therapeutic outcomes with significantly lower drug dosages.
• The Tower Microneedle holds potential for improving patient safety and treatment efficacy in ophthalmic drug delivery.