A partial-thickness 'scleral belt loop' for MicroShunt implant.

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to introduce a new surgical technique for the PreserFloTM MicroShunt implant. This technique involves creating a partial-thickness scleral belt loop before repositioning the Tenon's capsule and the conjunctiva toward the limbus. The distal end of the device is passed under the lamellar belt of the sclera, but the tip remains open and not covered by the loop. With this surgical technique, the MicroShunt adheres perfectly to the scleral profile of all eyes. As a result, the device's end tip does not stress the Tenon's/conjunctival flap during postoperative eye movements, thereby minimizing conjunctival erosion and inflammation. This method is efficient, requiring very short additional time. Consequently, it can be seamlessly integrated into the standard MicroShunt implant procedure without incurring extra costs, ultimately trying to reduce the need for surgical revisions of the filtration bleb.