La Palma Innovates Glaucoma Treatment with Minimally Invasive Implant Technique

The University Hospital of La Palma introduces the Istent Infinite system, improving access and recovery for patients with this chronic eye disease.

Generic image of an eye, symbolizing advanced ophthalmic treatment.
IA

Generic image of an eye, symbolizing advanced ophthalmic treatment.

The University Hospital of La Palma has implemented an advanced implant technique for glaucoma treatment, offering minimally invasive surgery that optimizes therapeutic options and improves access to this procedure on the island.

This integration positions the La Palma hospital as a pioneer among non-capital island hospitals in applying this technology. The measure aims to prevent patient transfers to referral hospitals, thereby streamlining intervention and treatment processes for glaucoma.
The technique, known as Istent Infinite, is a state-of-the-art system proven to be effective, safe, and innovative. Its operation focuses on the eye's trabecular meshwork, a crucial structure for draining aqueous humor, an essential fluid for maintaining proper intraocular pressure.
Among the most notable benefits of this new procedure is its minimally invasive nature, leading to faster patient recovery compared to previous techniques. Furthermore, it expands treatment possibilities for those in early and moderate stages of the disease, who were previously not candidates for this type of surgery.
Glaucoma is a chronic, silent eye disease that, if not detected early, can progressively damage the optic nerve, making it the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. The primary treatment focuses on reducing intraocular pressure, the most recognized risk factor, although other elements such as vascular or structural nerve susceptibility also play a role.
With the adoption of this device, the La Palma hospital is at the forefront of ophthalmological care. Professionals from the Ophthalmology department have received specific training for handling this instrumentation, underscoring the commitment of the Canarian Health Service to innovation, improved therapeutic options, and promoting proximity and accessibility for patients.