The XEN Gel Implant is a very small flexible tube that creates a new pathway for fluid to drain from the eye, thus reducing eye pressure. The implant is 6mm in length and almost as thin as a piece of human hair.
The XEN Gel Implant is indicated for patients with mild and moderate glaucoma, whose intra-ocular pressure cannot be lowered with eye drops or laser treatment. The XEN Gel Implant cannot cure glaucoma or reverse any damage already caused by the disease.
Glaucoma is usually associated with a buildup of pressure inside the eye. This pressure increases because the eye’s fluid drainage channels become blocked. The Xen Gel Implant is placed in the eye to make a new permanent pathway for the excess fluid to drain from inside the eye into a small bleb under the conjunctiva, just under the upper eyelid.
The procedure to insert the XEN Gel Implant is faster, more straightforward, and less invasive than traditional glaucoma procedures. The procedure is performed through a microscopic incision in the cornea. Unlike traditional surgery, scissors and stitches are not needed.
The procedure is usually performed while the patient is under light sedation. Your eye will be numbed with drops and a small injection will be given around the eye. The procedure can be performed by itself or in conjunction with cataract surgery. The XEN Gel Implant is inserted through a small self-sealing incision in the clear part of the eye using a special injector. During the procedure, a medication called Mitomycin C may be applied. This is used to reduce scarring and is designed to help enhance the long -term success of the procedure.
Following surgery, your eye could be bloodshot and swollen for a few days. Your vision may be blurry for 1 to 2 weeks after the procedure.
The XEN Gel Implant will begin to work right away to lower eye pressure and you can stop taking your glaucoma drops in the operated eye. Any drops you use in your other ye must be continued as normal.
Serious problems such as bleeding or infection are extremely rare. There is a risk the implant could become blocked or come out of position. If this were to occur, it may require an additional procedure. In certain cases, the implant may not lower the eye pressure, or its effect may wear off over time. If this were the case, the patient may have to restart his/her glaucoma medications or have another procedure.
For more information on the Xen Gel Implant, visit the manufacturer website.