Study validates long-term efficacy of MicroPulse TLT for glaucoma management

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Iridex Corp., a global leader in laser-based medical systems for glaucoma and retinal disease treatment, has announced the publication of a pivotal peer-reviewed study in Ophthalmology Therapy.

This research demonstrates the sustained safety and efficacy of MicroPulse Transscleral Laser Therapy (TLT) for managing both primary and secondary glaucoma over a 5-year period.

The study, led by Ronald de Crom, MD, PhD, and his team at the University Eye Clinic Maastricht in the Netherlands, represents the first long-term evaluation of MicroPulse TLT outcomes. It involved 165 eyes treated between 2016 and 2019, with 112 eyes completing the five-year follow-up. Treatments were performed using the Iridex Cyclo G6 Laser in MicroPulse®Mode and the original MicroPulse P3 Delivery Device.

Key findings

Results from the study revealed a significant reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP), with an average decrease of 32.5% (p<0.001). Additionally, patients experienced a significant reduction in their reliance on IOP-lowering medications (p<0.005). These outcomes were achieved with a low complication rate across a diverse range of glaucoma types and severities.

“MicroPulse TLT offers a viable alternative to invasive incisional glaucoma surgery, particularly for patients with secondary glaucoma or those for whom incisional surgery poses challenges,” de Crom said. “Its ability to achieve sustained IOP reduction with minimal complications makes it a cornerstone treatment option.”

Retreatment outcomes

Another notable outcome of the study was that only 38% of eyes required retreatment over the five years. Patients who underwent retreatment achieved comparable success rates to those treated initially, with no significant increase in complication risk. de Crom emphasized the importance of this finding, stating,

“The ability to safely repeat MicroPulse treatments while continuing long-term glaucoma care management without progressing to more invasive surgeries is a major advantage for both clinicians and patients,” he said.

Implications for glaucoma care

The results support MicroPulse TLT as a non-invasive, repeatable treatment that provides clinicians with an effective option to manage glaucoma over the long term.

Patrick Mercer, CEO of Iridex, underscored the significance of the study.

“This is the first long-term, peer-reviewed study to demonstrate the safety, effectiveness, and repeatability of MicroPulse TLT,” he said. “It underscores our commitment to delivering innovative, non-incisional solutions that improve patient outcomes while creating value for our stakeholders.”

Conclusion

As the first long-term analysis of its kind, this study establishes MicroPulse TLT as a safe and effective approach to managing glaucoma, offering patients and clinicians an alternative to invasive surgeries. The findings pave the way for broader adoption of this innovative technology, further solidifying its role in modern glaucoma care.