Hydrus Microstent
Also known as Hydrus, Schlemm Canal Microstent, Glaucoma Microstent, MIGS Stent, Cataract Surgery Glaucoma Stent
Bottom Line
Hydrus Microstent is a tiny curved channel placed during cataract surgery. It helps fluid leave the eye and can reduce glaucoma drops for some people.
The Hydrus Microstent is a small device for mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma. It is placed in the eye's natural drain during cataract surgery 1.
Hydrus belongs to a group called minimally invasive glaucoma surgery. These procedures lower pressure with less tissue disruption than older glaucoma surgeries.
In the HORIZON trial, adding a Schlemm canal microstent to cataract surgery improved pressure control compared with cataract surgery alone 2.
How It Works
The eye makes clear fluid all day. That fluid leaves through the eye's drain, where fluid exits the front of the eye.
Hydrus is placed inside Schlemm canal, part of that drain. The device holds a small section open so fluid can leave through more collector channels 1.
It is placed from inside the eye during cataract surgery. No outside bleb is created.
Who It Helps
Hydrus is usually considered when all of these are true:
- Cataract surgery is already planned. Hydrus is commonly placed at the same operation.
- Glaucoma is open-angle. The angle must be open enough for safe placement.
- Disease is mild to moderate. Very advanced glaucoma may need stronger surgery.
- Drops are burdensome. The goal may be fewer drops or better pressure control.
The device summary describes use with cataract surgery in adults with mild to moderate primary open-angle glaucoma 3.
Risks and Side Effects
Hydrus adds glaucoma-specific risks to cataract surgery risks.
- Blood reflux. A small amount of blood can come from the drain and usually clears.
- Pressure spike. Eye pressure can rise early after surgery.
- Inflammation. Drops are used while the eye heals.
- Device position problem. Rarely, the stent is not in the ideal place.
- Scarring in the angle. Scar tissue can reduce the pressure-lowering effect.
- Need for more treatment. Drops, laser, or stronger surgery may still be needed.
Long-term follow-up from Hydrus studies supports ongoing monitoring for pressure, medications, and glaucoma progression 4.
Cost and Insurance
Hydrus is usually billed as an add-on to cataract surgery. The device, facility, surgeon, and anesthesia charges may be separate.
Medicare and many private plans cover glaucoma microstent surgery when medical criteria are met. Prior authorization may be needed.
Ask the surgery center for a written estimate. Confirm the cataract surgery cost, implant cost, facility fee, and your expected out-of-pocket share.
Common Questions About Hydrus Microstent
Next Steps
- 1Ask whether your glaucoma type and angle anatomy fit Hydrus.
- 2Confirm whether cataract surgery is already medically needed.
- 3Review your target pressure and current glaucoma drops.
- 4Ask for a written cost estimate before surgery.
- 5Keep glaucoma testing visits after the eye heals.
Find specialists for Hydrus Microstent
Board-certified ophthalmologists who treat Hydrus Microstent.
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