What is the Xen Gel Stent and What Does It Do?

Open-angle glaucoma is the most common type of glaucoma in the United States. Nine out of ten people with glaucoma have this type. But how is it addressed? Can it be treated?

With Xen Gel Stent surgery, open-angle glaucoma and the symptoms it comes with (there are often no symptoms in the early stages), can be addressed with this innovative procedure.

What is the Xen Gel Stent?

Xen Gel Stent surgery, also referred to as aqueous shunt surgery, is a type of treatment that is used to treat people suffering from glaucoma, a group of diseases that cause nerve damage and vision loss. The stent is very small; it’s barely visible to the human eye.

The Xen Gel Stent is great for people who have previously undergone insufficient laser treatments or those whose eye drop medications weren’t enough.

The procedure involves the insertion of tiny tubes known as stents and works to lower high eye pressure due to open-angle glaucoma.

What Occurs During Xen Gel Stent Surgery?

To prevent vision loss, the Xen Gel Stent surgery involves inserting stents in the eye. It is often done on an outpatient basis and must be performed by an ophthalmologist. The stents are implanted in the eye and once implanted, fluid will be removed from the eye through the stents. Removing the fluid is what helps reduce the pressure.  Lowering eye pressure levels can protect against optic nerve damage and permanent vision loss.

How Effective Is It?

The Xen Gel Stent surgery is very effective in reducing the pressure inside the eyes. The stents or tubes are made of 100% medical-grade silicone and are a revolutionary treatment that has a fast recovery time with proven results. According to clinical studies, it has a success rate between 21-70.8%.

The results of Xen Gel Stent surgery can last a lifetime, but you may need follow-up appointments to ensure the stent is working properly.

Xen Gel Stent Surgery Risks

The Xen Gel Stent surgery is a very safe procedure and has a very low risk for complications. However, there is a small chance that the stents may leak, which can cause discomfort and redness in the eye.

Schedule a Consultation

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness around the world. While there is no cure for glaucoma, early detection and methods like the Xen Gel Stent surgery can help diagnose and treat the disorder early and prevent further eye damage and vision loss.

At Kung Eye Center, our team of doctors is highly experienced in treating all types of eye conditions. They can walk you through the Xen Gel Stent surgery and answer any questions you may have.

To schedule a consultation today, call our New Jersey or New York office or use our online scheduling form.