Long-Term Efficacy of MicroPulse TLT Validated for Glaucoma Management

Iridex Corporation, a global leader in laser-based medical systems for glaucoma and retinal disease treatment, has announced the publication of a groundbreaking peer-reviewed study in Ophthalmology Therapy. The study provides compelling evidence of the long-term safety and efficacy of MicroPulse Transscleral Laser Therapy (TLT) in managing both primary and secondary glaucoma over a five-year period.

First Long-Term Evaluation of MicroPulse TLT

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

Key Findings

The study highlighted the following outcomes:

       • Significant IOP Reduction: Patients experienced an average 32.5% reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) (p<0.001).

       • Reduced Medication Use: A notable decrease in reliance on IOP-lowering medications (p<0.005).

       • Low Complication Rate: Demonstrated safety across various 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,” said Dr. de Crom. “Its ability to achieve sustained IOP reduction with minimal complications makes it a cornerstone treatment option.”

Retreatment Outcomes

One of the study’s key findings was the effectiveness of retreatments:

       • Only 38% of eyes required retreatment over five years.

       • Patients who underwent retreatment achieved comparable success rates to initial treatments, without increased complication risks.

Dr. de Crom emphasized, “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.”

Implications for Glaucoma Care

The study establishes MicroPulse TLT as a non-invasive, repeatable treatment that offers clinicians a safe and effective option for managing glaucoma over the long term.

Patrick Mercer, CEO of Iridex, highlighted the significance of the findings:

“This is the first long-term, peer-reviewed study to demonstrate the safety, effectiveness, and repeatability of MicroPulse TLT. 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 firmly positions MicroPulse TLT as a safe, effective, and repeatable alternative to invasive glaucoma surgeries. The findings support broader adoption of this innovative technology, solidifying its pivotal role in modern glaucoma management and offering new hope for patients worldwide.