The iStent inject is a second-generation device used in some MIGS procedures (the first generation of the device was called the iStent).

The iStent inject has been available for over 5 years and consists of two very small, titanium stents (less than 0.5 mm) that are surgically implanted into the trabecular meshwork (the tissue that drains fluid away from the eye). The stents create tiny channels that fluid can drain through, which helps to lower eye pressure. Following the surgery, most patients are able to stop or reduce the number of eye drops they use to treat their glaucoma.

Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) is a revolutionary new glaucoma treatment. This term refers to any surgery that involves creating a tiny incision to implant a microscopic device (e.g. the iStent inject) and help reduce pressure inside the eye. MIGS procedures have a low risk of complications.

MIGS procedures (including the iStent inject), are generally reserved for patients with stable, mild-to-moderate glaucoma and who do not require complex surgery. At this stage, the iStent inject can only be implanted in glaucoma patients who are also undergoing cataract surgery (i.e. it is a combined procedure).

The published data over the last 5 years has shown that the iStent inject system is effective at lowering eye pressure. However, it is a new device, so we don’t authoritatively know how effective any MIGS device will be after 15 to 20 years. Glaucoma is a progressive disease, so if your current treatment stops working and your eye pressure starts to rise again, other options are available.