Eyepass Glaucoma Implant in Open-Angle Glaucoma After Failed Conventional Medical Therapy: Clinical Results of a 5-Year-Follow-up.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the long-term safety and intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering effect of the Eyepass glaucoma implant (GMP Vision Solutions, Inc.).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The prospective study included 15 patients (16 eyes) with primary open-angle glaucoma who underwent an implantation of the Y-shaped Eyepass glaucoma implant. This shunt diverts aqueous from the anterior chamber directly into Schlemm's canal to increase outflow and to lower the IOP. IOP, visual acuity, potential complications and the number of antiglaucomatous medications were monitored over a period of 5 years.

RESULTS

The implant was successfully inserted in 14 of 16 eyes. Mean IOP was reduced from 26.4±8.1 mm Hg (SD) to 16.4±5.3 mm Hg (P=0.032) at the end of the follow-up. Mean number of antiglaucomatous medications dropped from 2.1±1.2 (SD) to 0.9±1.2 (SD). In 5 cases, no pressure-lowering medications were necessary 5 years after surgery. Mean best-corrected visual acuity did not change significantly (P>0.05). In all cases, filtering blebs were observed and sustained using antimetabolites. The most common complication was temporary ocular hypotony. Two patients required a revision surgery due to implant malposition.

CONCLUSIONS

The Eyepass glaucoma implant seems to be a safe and effective treatment option for patients with primary open-angle glaucoma. The use of this device resulted in a significant decrease of IOP.