iStent Trabecular Micro-Bypass Stent
Semel Vision Care & Aesthetics
Premium Eye Care in El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, & Redondo Beach
iStent Trabecular Micro-Bypass Stent:
A Revolutionary Solution for Glaucoma and Cataract Treatment
The iStent Trabecular Micro-Bypass Stent is the smallest FDA-approved medical device ever implanted in the human body—20,000 times smaller than the intraocular lens (IOL) used in cataract surgery. It works similarly to stents used in heart procedures by helping restore normal fluid flow, but in this case, it’s designed to help manage eye pressure in patients with glaucoma.
How iStent Works
The iStent is placed during cataract surgery and is used to treat mild-to-moderate open-angle glaucoma. By creating a tiny, permanent opening in the trabecular meshwork (the drainage area of the eye), the iStent improves the natural outflow of fluid from the eye, reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) the main factor in glaucoma.
It’s a safe and effective way to lower eye pressure and may even reduce or eliminate the need for glaucoma medications.
The Role of iStent in Cataract Surgery
During cataract surgery, your ophthalmologist will place the iStent into your eye. The stent is so small that you won’t be able to see or feel it once the surgery is complete. Over time, the stent helps maintain the proper balance of fluid in the eye, reducing pressure and improving long-term eye health. This is particularly beneficial for patients with both cataracts and glaucoma.
Pre-Surgery Instructions
Before the procedure, it’s important to:
- Continue using any prescribed eye drops until directed otherwise by your doctor.
- Inform your ophthalmologist about any medications you’re currently taking, particularly if you are on blood thinners.
- Bring a list of your medications and medical history to your consultation to ensure safety.
Post-Surgery Recovery
The iStent procedure is minimally invasive, and most patients are able to go home the same day. Post-operative care is typically straightforward, and you will likely be given a set of instructions to follow, such as:
- Eye shield: You may be asked to wear a shield over your eye the night of surgery, which can be removed the following morning.
- Eye drops: Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops should be used for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery to promote healing and prevent infection.
- Follow-up: You’ll need a follow-up appointment with your ophthalmologist the day after surgery.
- Activity restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities (e.g., heavy lifting, intense exercise) for at least 2 weeks to prevent increasing eye pressure.
Though most patients recover quickly, it’s a good idea to take about a week off work to allow your eyes to heal properly.
Benefits of the iStent Trabecular Micro-Bypass Stent
- Preserves eye tissue: iStent is designed to be less invasive than traditional glaucoma surgeries, preserving important eye structures.
- FDA-approved: iStent has a proven safety profile similar to that of cataract surgery.
- No impact on future options: The iStent doesn’t limit future treatment options for maintaining or improving vision.
- Short recovery time: The procedure offers a quick recovery, often allowing patients to resume normal activities within a week.
- Reduced need for glaucoma medications: Many patients can stop using their glaucoma eye drops after iStent surgery.
- Prevents the need for more invasive surgery: iStent can help control glaucoma before it reaches the point where more aggressive surgeries (like extra-scleral drainage) are necessary.
Who is a Candidate for iStent?
You may be a good candidate for the iStent Trabecular Micro-Bypass if you have **both cataracts and glaucoma** or if you are planning cataract surgery and are currently using medications to control **eye pressure**.
This procedure can help improve the management of your glaucoma while also addressing cataracts, providing a dual benefit in one treatment.
About Dr. Semel
Board-Certified El Segundo Ophthalmologist
Dr. Jane Semel is a skilled, respected, board-certified, and fellowship-trained ophthalmologist licensed to practice in the state of California. She specializes in the treatment and prevention of eye disease.
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