This article was originally published in a sponsored newsletter.
I have a wealth of experience with iStent devices (Glaukos). Before I implanted the iStent infinite, I used the iStent inject W. Prior to that, I used the original iStent when it was the first trabecular microbypass stent to be approved in the United States. When I switched from the inject W to the infinite in early 2023, I felt confident that three stents would improve efficacy in terms of intraocular pressure (IOP) and med reduction. I also appreciated the opportunity to have an infinite number of delivery attempts in case a stent did not seat correctly. Previously with iStent inject W, only four attempts could be made to implant the two stents; however, the iStent infinite can be reloaded for additional attempts to implant each stent.
My initial impressions of the infinite in practice have been great. I like the feel of the hand piece and, after using the iStent inject W for some time, I found it easy to adjust to the firing mechanism. I also like the controlled speed of delivery, as well as the convenience of the automatic retracting sleeve.
My results so far have been good. I have been able to stop at least one eye drop in many of my patients while continuing to control their IOPs. For patients with higher pressures, I consider combining stents with canaloplasty to further dilate the downstream collector channels.
As long as usage fits the FDA indications, the iStent infinite is a great tool to offer our patients.
