Experimental evaluation of a posterior drainage system

We have evaluated an experimental artificial shunt to drain intraocular fluid into the retrobulbar space. The device consists of a hollow needle for insertion into the eye, a slit valve to regulate the drainage pressure, and a dome-shaped outflow system. The device was inserted through the sclera, choroid, and retina into the eyes of cynomolgus monkeys. The system was tolerated without producing retinal detachment. A localized foreign body reaction occurred in the retina, choroid, and sclera adjacent to the device. The intraocular pressure was lowered until fibrous encapsulation of the outflow system occurred.