If you suffer from glaucoma, you probably know that for a long time medication was the only option. Fortunately with the introduction of treatment options like iStent, we now have a new, more permanent, tool for treating this disease.
What is iStent?
The iStent Trabecular Micro-Bypass stent is the first minimally invasive glaucoma surgery device. Because most cases of glaucoma are the result of a drainage issue within the eye, iStent is designed to directly reverse this problem. iStent creates a new drainage pathway that allows liquid to pass out of the eye. Its small size prevents the eye from over-draining and improves your eyes’ fluid outflow to safely lower intraocular pressure (IOP).
iStent is designed for patients with combined cataract and open-angle glaucoma. Most often, iStent will be placed during a cataract procedure, saving you the trouble (and expense!) of multiple surgeries. On top of that, some patients even experience a reduction in the need for glaucoma medications. Saving you money and helping to lower your dependence on medication, this may be the long-term glaucoma management solution you’ve been looking for.
Some patients express concern about placing a foreign object into the eye. Luckily, iStent is the smallest medical device ever approved by the FDA (so small, you won’t be able to see or feel it after the procedure is over).
How Can iStent Help Me?
By controlling the pressure in your eye, the risk for vision loss due to glaucoma is significantly reduced. Although iStent is a highly innovative technology, it is safe and effective, because the iStent:
- Is safely implanted during cataract surgery
- Spares important eye tissue that is often damaged by traditional surgeries
- Does not limit treatment options that could help maintain your vision in the future
Once implanted, the iStent works immediately. Patients will come in for a few post-surgery tests to determine how much the procedure has helped to reduce IOP. From there, your Center For Sight doctor will be able to determine if you can reduce or discontinue using your glaucoma medication.
Although glaucoma progresses slowly, its damage is irreversible. The iStent procedure is now available at Center For Sight. If you have both glaucoma and cataracts, ask your Center For Sight doctor if this option is right for you.
For more information on glaucoma treatments, including iStent, please give us a call at (702) 724-2020 or schedule an appointment.