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Title: Ex-PRESS Implant Reduces Intraocular Pressure in Patients With Open-Angle Glaucoma: Presented at AAO

"Ex-PRESS Implant Reduces Intraocular Pressure in Patients With Open-Angle Glaucoma: Presented at AAO"

By Deanna M Green, PhD ANAHEIM, CA -- November 20, 2003 -- Ocular implantation of the Ex-PRESS device in patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG) significantly lowers intraocular pressure (IOP) and reduces the need for antiglaucoma medication, according to findings presented here November 17th at the American Academy of Ophthalmology's 2003 Annual Meeting. Trabeculectomy is the most common surgical treatment for glaucoma. However, this procedure is not an option for patients with scarring or trauma and is associated with a number of serious complications, including infection, choroidal detachment, and choroidal haemorrhaging. One alternative treatment for patients with OAG is the minimally invasive Ex-PRESS miniature glaucoma implant. The device was designed to reduce IOP by diverting excess aqueous humour from the anterior chamber to a subconjunctival bleb. The Ex-PRESS implant holds several advantages over traditional filtration surgery, including ease of implantation and decreased trauma to the ocular tissue. Carlo E Traverso, MD, at the University of Genoa, Italy, and colleagues evaluated the safety and efficacy of the Ex-PRESS miniature glaucoma implant (Optonol Ltd.) when implanted in combination with cataract extraction. The multicentre, open-label prospective study included 26 patients (mean age, 75) with OAG and impaired vision due to cataracts. Phacoemulsification cataract extraction was performed, followed by implantation of the Ex-PRESS device under the conjunctiva at the limbus. Patients were examined up to two years postoperatively. Overall, IOP was reduced by 39.4% 6 months after implantation and by 32.5% at 2 years. More specifically, the mean IOP dropped from 24.5 mmHg preoperatively to 15.3 mmHg at 1 year and 16.6 mmHg at 2 years. A target IOP of

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