Optonol launches updated mini glaucoma shunt to enhance placement precision

CHICAGO — A new mini glaucoma shunt model launched here offers accurate centration in the angle with increased precision in the implantation site, a physician said.

The Ex-PRESS mini glaucoma shunt P50 model from Optonol was launched at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery meeting. The device is preloaded for direct implantation, according to the company. It has a 50-µm internal lumen size and a back plate with a vertical split to direct aqueous flow posteriorly.

James E. Memmen, MD, spoke at a company-sponsored media event for the launch of the device. He has implanted the device for about 5 years in 500 patients and said the model has a low rate of complications, coupled with a high rate of pressure lowering. It also helps improve compliance because it enables patients to take fewer medications.

In addition, he said the device provides a "new level of precision" in filtration surgery.

"I can now, absolutely, in a reproducible, standardized way, take aqueous out of the anterior chamber and take it out of the eye. I can do it the same way every time," Dr. Memmen said.

The device was introduced at the American Glaucoma Society meeting in Washington, D.C., last month.