Fibrosis-Resistant Bleb-Free Gaucoma Implant

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The objective of this Phase I SBIR project is to test the feasibility of using a novel biomaterial design for improved Glaucoma Drainage Device (GDD) performance. The proposed innovation has the eventual aim to enhanceour current STARfloTM Glaucoma Implant device by increasing its drainage efficiency with a fibrosis-minimizing surface geometry. This could allow use of a smaller implant and simplify placement surgery. Significance: Glaucomatous eyes usually have impededdrainage systems, causing intraocular pressure (IOP) to build, damaging the optic nerve and leading to blindness. GDDs are increasingly relied on as a surgical approach to reduce IOP. The established GDD paradigm depends on maintaining a permanent subconjunctival filtering bleb, with risks of bleb leaks and infection, and of fibrosis-related bleb-failure. An efficient, low-fibrosis, bleb-independent GDD with low complication rate would have a major impact. Innovation: STARfloTM is a new GDD comprised entire