A meta-analysis conducted by Kevin Gillmann, MD, and Dana M. Hornbeak, MD, examined the functional progression in glaucoma following trabecular microbypass implantation of iStent (Glaukos) technologies. The study, involving over 1,115 eyes, aimed to determine the long-term effect of iStent technology on glaucoma progression.

The analysis included 15 studies with follow-up durations ranging from 12 to 96 months. The results revealed a weighted mean intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction of 26.6%, with a mean visual field mean deviation (VF MD) progression rate of −0.024 dBs/year. This rate was comparable to nonglaucomatous eyes and slower than medically treated glaucoma. The findings suggested that early trabecular bypass surgery might help stabilize glaucoma progression, highlighting the potential benefits of iStent implantation in managing the disease.

The study was published in BMJ Open Ophthalmology.