Complications after CyPass® Micro-Stent explantation: a case series.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Devices
• Glaucoma Surgery

Background:

• The CyPass® Micro-Stent is used for mild to moderate glaucoma.
• Endothelial cell density loss is a known complication.
• In toto explantation is a surgical option for managing complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the complete removal (in toto explantation) of the CyPass® Micro-Stent.
• To detail the potential complications associated with this explantation procedure.

Main Methods:

• A case series of 18 eyes from 14 patients who underwent CyPass® Micro-Stent implantation.
• Patients subsequently experienced endothelial cell density loss and underwent in toto explantation.
• Surgical procedures and complications were documented and compared to stent trimming.

Main Results:

• Postoperative hyphema occurred in 8 of 18 eyes, requiring intervention in some cases.
• One patient experienced severe intracameral bleeding and iridodialysis, necessitating scleral fixation.
• Most explantations proceeded without significant complications.

Conclusions:

• In toto explantation of the CyPass® Micro-Stent presents surgical challenges due to tissue encapsulation and fusion.
• Stent trimming is a viable alternative to minimize further endothelial damage.
• Long-term effects of trimming versus complete removal on endothelial cell development require further investigation.