Glaucoma device studied

Irvine, CA-Ivantis is expanding multiple randomized controlled trials of its intracanalicular scaffold (Hydrus) for the treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma using $17 million in funding from New Enterprise Associates (NEA) and Delphi Ventures.

The eyelash-sized device, which recently received CE mark approval, is placed through a minimally invasive, microsurgical procedure and is designed to reduce IOP by reestablishing a patient’s natural outflow pathway. It relies on a two-fold mechanism of action that creates a large opening through the trabecular meshwork and then dilates and scaffolds Schlemm’s canal.

“All signals are that this technology can potentially revolutionize glaucoma treatment worldwide,” said John Nehra, special partner at NEA.

The first patient has enrolled in the company’s first international randomized controlled trial, Hydrus II, in Madrid, Spain. The company expects to start two additional randomized controlled trials this year.