Preserflo Microshunt

What is the Preserflo Microshunt?

The Preserflo Microshunt is a tiny, flexible tube that is surgically placed in your eye to lower eye pressure. It is about the width of a human hair and is made of a soft, biocompatible material that is well-tolerated by the body.

This innovative device is designed for patients with glaucoma who need better control of their eye pressure, especially when eye drops alone aren't working effectively.

Benefits of the Preserflo Microshunt for You

Effective pressure reduction - Significant and sustained lowering of eye pressure
Potentially fewer medications - May reduce or eliminate the need for glaucoma eye drops
Minimally invasive - Less extensive surgery than traditional glaucoma operations
Quicker recovery - Typically faster healing than with traditional glaucoma surgery
Long-lasting results - Designed to provide long-term pressure control
Simplified follow-up care - Often requires fewer post-operative adjustments

How Does It Work?

The Preserflo Microshunt works by creating a new drainage pathway for the fluid in your eye. It diverts fluid from inside the eye to a space under the outer membrane (conjunctiva), where it can be absorbed into the bloodstream. This helps lower the pressure inside your eye.

Think of it like installing a tiny pipe to bypass a clogged drain. When the natural drainage channels in your eye aren't working properly, the Microshunt creates a new route for fluid to exit.

The Preserflo Microshunt Procedure

1 Preparation

The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, so you'll be awake but your eye will be numb. Mr. Panos may also give you a light sedative to help you relax.

2 Creating the Pathway

A small pocket is created under the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white part of your eye).

3 Inserting the Microshunt

The Microshunt is carefully inserted through a tiny tunnel into the front chamber of your eye. One end remains in the eye, while the other end lies under the conjunctiva.

4 Completion

The conjunctiva is closed over the device, leaving it completely hidden. No part of the device is visible on the surface of the eye.

5 Recovery

Most patients can go home the same day. You'll use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops for several weeks afterward.

Preserflo Microshunt vs. Traditional Glaucoma Surgery

Preserflo Microshunt

Smaller incision
No visible stitches on the eye surface
Typically shorter surgery time
Less manipulation of eye tissues
Quicker recovery period
Lower risk of very low pressure after surgery

Traditional Surgery

Larger incision
Usually requires visible stitches
Longer procedure time
More extensive tissue manipulation
Longer recovery period
Higher risk of pressure being too low

What to Expect After Surgery

After your Preserflo Microshunt procedure:

Your eye may be red and feel irritated for a few days
You'll need to use prescribed eye drops, typically for 8-12 weeks
You should avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and bending over for at least 2 weeks
You'll have several follow-up appointments to monitor your eye pressure and healing
Most patients see a significant reduction in eye pressure within the first few weeks
Your medication regimen may be adjusted based on your eye pressure readings

Is the Preserflo Microshunt Right for You?

The Preserflo Microshunt may be suitable if you:

Have primary open-angle glaucoma
Are not achieving target eye pressure with medications or laser treatments
Can't tolerate glaucoma medications due to side effects
Find it difficult to use eye drops correctly or consistently
Need a less invasive alternative to traditional glaucoma surgery

Mr. Panos will evaluate your specific situation, including the type and severity of your glaucoma, to determine if the Preserflo Microshunt is the right option for you.

Learn More About the Preserflo Microshunt

Mr. Chris Panos is experienced in performing Preserflo Microshunt procedures and can help determine if it's right for you. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact:

Secretary: Jackie Hugget
Phone: 01372 502 503
Email: chrispanossecretary@gmail.com