Two new implants
Chemelot InSciTe subsidized its project called SEAMS: Smart, Easy and Accurate Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery. Under that name, Henny is developing its own glaucoma implant together with a number of partners (see box). The implant is made of a new material that is also used in heart surgery. With a special tube, exactly the right amount of eye fluid can be drained per patient. At the same time as the implant, a small ball of medication is inserted to prevent scarring. For patients who cannot be helped with this treatment method, Henny is working with the same partners on a second implant with a different design. This project was named ISEA: Innovative Surgeries for Eyes with Advanced Glaucoma.
Responsibility
“It is very challenging to be involved in a development that does not yet exist worldwide. What we are developing cannot be compared to the implants that are currently being used. This method is unique in the world. This could be that big step forward that glaucoma surgery has been waiting for so long. I think that’s fantastic, but also terrifying at the same time. Huge amounts of money are involved, while only the very best method grows into the new standard. The rest of the innovations die a quiet death. I do feel that responsibility. Suddenly I lead a consortium with many FTEs, PhD students, postdocs and other scientists. Thanks to that team it becomes a little less scary because they are fantastic. I am mainly the driving force, the enthusiast, but they have to do it. Thanks to their efforts, the development of both products is now almost complete, ready for the first-in-man trials.”
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