The iStent Inject is a device designed to lower eye pressure by increasing the outflow of fluid from within the eye by improving on the natural outflow pathways. Currently the smallest medical device used in humans (0.4mm), it consists of a head, neck and thorax with a central lumen and is made from titanium (see figure).
Two stents are inserted through the trabecular meshwork within the eye to increase the rate at which the internal fluid drains out (and thereby reduce eye pressure). They are most commonly used in combination with cataract surgery and are neither felt nor seen by the patient. Initial experience with the stent inject has been very positive and early clinical trials demonstrate benefit in terms of lowering eye pressure and reducing glaucoma medication.