The Hydrus Microstent for
Glaucoma Treatment
At Lake Nona Ophthalmology, we are committed to offering the most advanced, minimally invasive options for managing glaucoma. One of the leading innovations in glaucoma surgery is the Hydrus Microstent, a revolutionary device designed to help reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) and improve fluid drainage within the eye. Our expert team is proud to offer this state-of-the-art procedure, which has been shown to provide effective, long-term results for glaucoma patients.
What is the Hydrus Microstent?
The Hydrus Microstent is a tiny, flexible, and biocompatible device that is implanted within the eye to improve fluid drainage, thereby lowering IOP. It works by creating a small opening in the eye’s trabecular meshwork (the eye’s drainage system), which allows excess fluid to flow more easily. By improving fluid drainage, the Hydrus Microstent reduces the pressure within the eye, helping to slow or prevent optic nerve damage that can lead to vision loss in patients with glaucoma.
The Hydrus Microstent Procedure
The implantation of the Hydrus Microstent is a minimally invasive procedure typically performed in conjunction with cataract surgery (a procedure known as combined cataract and MIGS surgery). This means that patients who are already undergoing cataract surgery can benefit from glaucoma treatment at the same time, reducing the need for additional procedures or recovery time.
During the procedure:
- Small Incision: A tiny incision is made in the eye to allow for the insertion of the Hydrus Microstent.
- Device Insertion: The microstent, which is about the size of an eyelash, is carefully placed in the trabecular meshwork to help improve fluid drainage.
- Recovery: The procedure typically takes just a few minutes, and patients often experience quick recovery times with minimal discomfort.
Since it is minimally invasive, the Hydrus Microstent procedure carries a lower risk of complications compared to traditional glaucoma surgeries.
Benefits of the
Hydrus Microstent
The Hydrus Microstent offers a range of benefits, particularly for glaucoma patients who are seeking an effective yet low-risk treatment option:
- Lower Eye Pressure: The Hydrus Microstent effectively reduces intraocular pressure (IOP), which is key in preventing optic nerve damage and vision loss associated with glaucoma.
- Minimally Invasive: The procedure requires a tiny incision, resulting in a quicker recovery time and less discomfort than traditional glaucoma surgeries.
- Long-term Results: Studies have shown that the Hydrus Microstent provides durable, long-term reductions in eye pressure, even for patients with moderate to advanced glaucoma.
- Improved Quality of Life: Many patients report feeling a significant improvement in their quality of life due to reduced reliance on glaucoma medications and the long-term stability provided by the microstent.
- Combined with Cataract Surgery: If you are undergoing cataract surgery, the Hydrus Microstent can be implanted simultaneously, allowing for the treatment of both conditions at once, reducing the need for multiple procedures.
Clinical Studies Supporting the Hydrus Microstent
Multiple clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of the Hydrus Microstent in reducing intraocular pressure and improving the long-term management of glaucoma. Key studies include:
- The HORIZON Trial: This pivotal study found that the Hydrus Microstent, when combined with cataract surgery, reduced IOP by an average of 35% and significantly decreased the need for glaucoma medications in patients over a 2-year period.
- The COMPASS Study: In this clinical trial, patients with moderate-to-severe open-angle glaucoma experienced sustained reductions in IOP and were able to reduce their reliance on glaucoma medications for up to 3 years after the procedure.
- The COMET Study: This study confirmed the long-term safety and efficacy of the Hydrus Microstent, showing that patients who received the device maintained significantly lower IOP compared to those receiving cataract surgery alone.
These studies, along with numerous other clinical trials, confirm the Hydrus Microstent as a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution for patients with glaucoma. At Lake Nona Ophthalmology, we stay at the forefront of these innovations, offering our patients the most advanced treatment options to preserve their vision.
Why Choose Lake
Nona Ophthalmology?
At Lake Nona Ophthalmology, our commitment to providing the highest quality care, coupled with cutting-edge technology, sets us apart. We offer:
- Expertise and Experience: Our board-certified ophthalmologists have extensive experience performing cataract surgery with premium IOLs, including Toric lenses.
- Personalized Care: We understand that each patient is unique, and we work closely with you to create a customized treatment plan tailored to your vision goals.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: Our advanced diagnostic tools ensure precise measurements and optimal outcomes, allowing us to select the best Toric IOL for your eyes.
- Comprehensive Support: From your initial consultation through post-surgery care, we are with you every step of the way to ensure a smooth and successful experience.
