iStent
iStent Is a Groundbreaking Vision Solution for Patients With Open-Angle Glaucoma.
Effective glaucoma management can help you maintain your quality of sight and support overall eye health. If pressure-controlling eye drops are not providing the results you need, an iStent implant may be your ideal alternative.
iStent is a breakthrough device, designed to enhance the eye’s natural fluid drainage while lowering IOP. Oklahoma Eye Surgeons is prepared to implant the best version of this device for your unique eye care needs.
Your iStent Options
Oklahoma Eye Surgeons is committed to pioneering the future of eye care. Our glaucoma treatments are led by Dr. Sarkisian, the first surgeon in the state to perform the original procedure and the procedure for iStent inject.
Currently, our clinic offers the Infinite and Inject versions of iStent.
iStent Infinite
This implant is a significant advancement for patients whose glaucoma remains uncontrolled despite medications or previous surgeries. Designed for long-term management, iStent Infinite aims to reduce reliance on eye drops while preserving the eye’s natural structures.
Your surgeon will implant three microscopic titanium stents to create a new path for fluid outflow, helping to lower eye pressure around the clock.
iStent Inject
This implant simultaneously treats mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma and cataracts. As a gentle and convenient treatment for both conditions, iStent Inject effectively assists with glaucoma management and may reduce the need for medications.
During a cataract procedure, your surgeon will implant two tiny, advanced-design titanium stents to enhance natural drainage and lower intraocular pressure.
How the Implant Works
What to Know About the Surgery
What does the iStent procedure involve?
When discussing your upcoming MIGS procedure with your eye surgeon, they will share everything you should do to prepare for the surgery. In general, the process for this minimally invasive procedure will involve:
- Anesthesia: At the start of the procedure, your surgeon will use local anesthesia to numb your eye. This ensures your comfort throughout the entire implantation process.
- Incision: Your surgeon will then make a strategic micro-incision in your cornea, allowing access to your eye’s anterior chamber.
- Implantation: Using a specialized inserter, your surgeon will carefully place the device into your trabecular meshwork. This establishes a direct channel for fluid drainage into the Schlemm’s canal.
- Completion: No sutures are typically needed, as the incision is self-healing. Your surgeon will advise you on what to do and what to avoid post-surgery.
This procedure typically takes only a few minutes, with patients usually experiencing a relatively quick recovery period and able to resume normal activities within a few days. Patients will have regular follow-up appointments to ensure the stent is functioning properly and that their IOP remains stable.
How does this compare to traditional glaucoma surgery?
The procedures to implant the Infinite and Inject versions of iStent are designed to be less invasive than traditional glaucoma surgeries. This often leads to quicker recovery times and enhanced patient comfort post-procedure.
Will the iStent implant fully restore my eyesight?
Whether it is through this implant or another treatment, it is unfortunately not possible to restore vision that was already lost due to glaucoma or to reverse optic nerve damage. However, this does not mean that the iStent implant (and other MIGS procedures) are not worthwhile.
This specialized implant can effectively lower your IOP and help decrease the severity of future vision loss. It can also reduce the need for glaucoma medications or eye drops, allowing you to enjoy greater freedom and comfort throughout your daily life.
Specialized iStent Procedures With Oklahoma Eye Surgeons
Dr. Sarkisian’s pioneering involvement with the iStent Infinite and Inject implants reflects his dedication to helping our patients through advanced glaucoma treatments. We combine this commitment with our patient-centered approach to ensure that everyone who visits us receives an eye care plan fully tailored to their needs.
If you are interested in exploring your glaucoma treatment options, please get in touch. We are ready to help you manage your glaucoma, preserve your vision, and enhance your quality of life.