Mini Drainage Devices for Anterior and Intermediate Filtration

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Devices
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Glaucoma management often involves surgical intervention to reduce intraocular pressure.
• Traditional filtering procedures can be complex and carry risks.
• Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) aims to improve safety and efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and compare mini glaucoma devices for external filtration.
• To discuss implantation techniques including ab externo and ab interno procedures.
• To highlight the features and FDA approval status of Ex-PRESS and XEN Gel stent.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and device information.
• Description of implantation techniques for Ex-PRESS, InnFocus Microshunt, and XEN Gel stent.
• Comparison of procedural aspects and potential benefits.

Main Results:

• Ex-PRESS is an FDA-approved device for ab externo implantation, simplifying guarded filtering procedures.
• InnFocus Microshunt is an investigational ab externo device showing promise in safety and efficacy.
• XEN Gel stent is an FDA-approved ab interno device creating a bypass for subconjunctival filtration.

Conclusions:

• Mini glaucoma devices offer simplified and potentially safer surgical options for glaucoma.
• Ab externo and ab interno approaches provide diverse strategies for intraocular pressure reduction.
• Continued investigation and adoption of these devices may enhance glaucoma treatment outcomes.