It is the irreversible damage suffered by the optic nerve as a result of a high pressure inside the eye. It is caused by a failure in the eye's natural drainage system, which, in order to function properly, must eliminate a fluid that is permanently produced inside it (aqueous humor). In some people this drain fails, resulting in an increase in pressure.
“Glaucoma: the silent thief of sight.”
100 Million worldwide, 4 Million only in the US. 10% Will go blind.
26 Million POAG requiring surgical treatment.
US$ 1.6 Billion for glaucoma surgery devices.
The Problem
30% of the patients who receive an implant will experience failure after 2 years that could require a new implant. 50% will experience failure after 5 years.
Problem |
Description |
Advantages of the IPM |
|---|---|---|
| Flat chamber | Excessive loss of pressure of the eye due to too much outflow caused by the implant or the surgery | No flat chamber
|
| Obstructions | Components of the aqueous humor adhere to the implants, clogging the tubes and reducing their drainage capacity | Less chance of obstructions
|
| Infections | Tubular implants or permanent connection surgeries allow external germs to travel inside the eye | Less possibility of infections
|
| Limited drainage capacity | Tubular implants have a fixed outlet size, therefore a limited outflow within the eye´s normal pressure levels | Works for wider range of pressures
|
| Bleending / scaring | Bleeding caused during surgery can lead to scaring and this to obstruction of the implant | Reduced risk of bleeding/scaringbr
|
| Surgery, training, equipment | Most surgeries require special training, equipment and instruments that are not available everywhere | Standard surgery
|
Reduce the number of blind people in the world.
Making safe and efficient glaucoma
treatment affordable and available for everybody.
