Novartis division Alcon has introduced the minimally invasive glaucoma surgical device, CyPass Micro-Stent in the US.
The prescription medical device is implanted during cataract surgery below the surface of the eye, into the supraciliary space.
It has been designed to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in adult patients with mild to moderate primary open-angle glaucoma by increasing aqueous outflow through one of the natural drainage pathways of the eye, ensuring minimal tissue disruption, which allows the excess fluid in the eye to drain.
Alcon North America president Sergio Duplan said: "We are excited to launch the CyPass Micro-Stent device in a new segment of glaucoma treatment called minimally-invasive glaucoma surgery, or MIGS.
"This new treatment option for cataract patients with mild to moderate primary open-angle glaucoma has been demonstrated to have a lasting, significant IOP-lowering effect."
The CyPass Micro-Stent was developed by Transcend Medical, which Alcon acquired in February this year.
Over 60 million people globally are affected by glaucoma that can lead to progressive damage of the optic nerve.
Early diagnosis of glaucoma is critical to manage the disease, as it is often asymptomatic and therefore can go undetected until it is at an advanced stage.
As the disease progresses, patients may experience loss of peripheral (side) vision, tunnel vision or eye spots.
Glaucoma can lead to gradual, irreversible loss of vision and blindness.
The exact cause of glaucoma is unknown.
