Novel Non-Valved Glaucoma Drainage Device with Reduced Inner Lumen Diameter: 6-Month Safety and Efficacy Outcomes

To evaluate the safety and clinical efficacy of the Ahmed ClearPath^® Small Tube (ACP-ST), a novel non-valved glaucoma drainage device with a reduced inner lumen diameter, in the management of glaucoma.

This retrospective chart review included 17 eyes that underwent ACP-ST implantation between February 25, 2025, and November 24, 2025. Surgical success was defined as a ≥20% reduction in IOP from baseline with a postoperative IOP >5 mmHg and no need for additional surgical intervention. Changes in IOP, glaucoma medication burden, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were evaluated through 6 months. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded.

Fourteen eyes had available 6-month follow-up data. Mean IOP decreased from 27.19 ± 6.29 mmHg at baseline to 12.21 ± 5.45 mmHg at 6 months, representing a 55.1% reduction (P < 0.0001). Mean glaucoma medication use decreased from 3.35 ± 1.14 to 1.07 ± 0.99 medications, corresponding to a 68.1% reduction (P < 0.0001). Surgical success was achieved in all 14 eyes (100%) with available 6-month follow-up. No intraoperative complications occurred, and no cases of postoperative hypotony or IOP spikes were observed.

These preliminary findings suggest that ACP-ST may achieve clinically meaningful reductions in IOP and glaucoma medication burden while maintaining a favorable short-term safety profile, as no cases of postoperative hypotony or IOP spikes were observed. However, given the retrospective design, small sample size, and limited duration of follow-up, further longitudinal studies with larger cohorts will be necessary to better evaluate the durability and long-term safety of ACP-ST.