Upcoming methods and specifications of continuous intraocular pressure monitoring systems for glaucoma

Abstract

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness and vision loss in the world. Although intraocular pressure (IOP) is no longer considered the only risk factor for glaucoma, it is still the most important one. In most cases, high IOP is secondary to trabecular meshwork dysfunction. High IOP leads to compaction of the lamina cribrosa and subsequent damage to retinal ganglion cell axons. Damage to the optic nerve head is evident on funduscopy as posterior bowing of the lamina cribrosa and increased cupping. Currently, the only documented method to slow or halt the progression of this disease is to decrease the IOP; hence, accurate IOP measurement is crucial not only for diagnosis, but also for the management. Due to the dynamic nature and fluctuation of the IOP, a single clinical measurement is not a reliable indicator of diurnal IOP; it requires 24-hour monitoring methods. Technological advances in microelectromechanical systems and microfluidics provide a promising solution for the effective measurement of IOP. This paper provides a broad overview of the upcoming technologies to be used for continuous IOP monitoring.

Role of 24-Hour Intraocular Pressure Monitoring in Glaucoma Management

“…Glaucoma is defined as a group of progressive optic neuropathies characterized by the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells which results in optic nerve head changes and subsequent visual field loss [1, 2]. It is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide [3]. The global prevalence of glaucoma in the population aged 40 to 80 years is 3.54%, and the number of people suffering from glaucoma is estimated to increase to 76.0 million in 2020 and 111.8 million in 2040 [4].…”

Miniaturization in Glaucoma Monitoring and Treatment: A Review of New Technologies That Require a Minimal Surgical Approach

“…The concept of measuring the IOP intraocularly and continuously holds promise [24] and will certainly lead to further developments and new technologies, some of which appear to be on the horizon. For instance, a wireless implantable intraocular pressure monitor microsystem (IMM) that comprises a powering coil, an antenna, and a piezoresistive microelectromechanical system pressure sensor was recently described by Bhamra et al That sensor, integrated on a 5-μm-thick biocompatible Parylene C substrate, was reported by the authors to have been implanted into laboratory rodents [3].…”

Promising Approach in the Treatment of Glaucoma Using Nanotechnology and Nanomedicine-Based Systems

“…An additional benefit of the microelectromechanical system is that by controlling electrolysis, the rate of drug release from the device can be regulated. Via an active delivery system, any clinician can alter the delivery rate upon assessment [145,146]. With very little modification, multiple drugs can also be administered via the intravitreal route using this device.…”