Andrew Burbidge1, David Manning2

Purpose: Micro-invasive glaucoma surgical (MIGS) implantation of trabecular micro-bypass stents are indicated in conjunction with cataract surgery to reduce intraocular pressure in mild-moderate glaucoma. The stents bypass the resistance of the juxtacanalicular tissue, enhancing aqueous outflow, to reduce IOP. Glaukos trabecular micro-bypass iStent have recently transitioned to second-generation technologies.

The primary aim of this study was to assess and evaluate the intra-ocular pressure lowering effects and medication burden reduction associated with the second generation ‘iStent inject’ (G2-M-IS-AS).

Method: We retrospectively analysed case notes from a single surgeons experience with three months follow-up. A total of 52 eyes had ‘iStent inject G2′ surgically implanted. Mean age was 69.38 ± 8.14yrs (SD). There were 27 (51.92%) males and 25 (48.08%) females. There were 24 right eyes and 28 left eyes. A total of 17 patients underwent bilateral procedures.

Results: Mean highest pre-operative IOP reading was 20.86 ± 4.28mmHG (SD). Mean post-operative IOP at one month was 15.05mmHg ± 2.43mmHg (SD). There were no complications associated with the surgical procedure.

Mean pre-operative medication usage was 1.02 ± 0.21(SD) drops. At one-month mean drop usage was 0.057 drops ± 0.24(SD). This reflects 94.3% of patients being medication free.

Conclusion: This analysis forms part of a larger longitudinal tracking study to determine the primary pressure lowering efficacy and mean reduction in medication burden attributable to ‘iStent G2′. At one month iStent inject is non-inferior to first generation iStent. Data trends towards superior number of patients being medication free. Here-in we report our initial experience.