Innovative glaucoma surgery first at Newmedica

Innovative glaucoma surgery first at Newmedica

An innovative glaucoma surgery has been performed at ophthalmology provider Newmedica for the first time.

The ELIOS procedure is a type of minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) performed during cataract surgery, which uses a laser device to make the channel.

The procedure was performed on an NHS patient at Newmedica Berkshire in a first for the NHS and private ophthalmology provider, which delivers a broad range of treatments and outstanding patient outcomes at centres throughout England.

One of the main advantages of ELIOS is its ability to stabilise intraocular pressure, which is crucial for managing glaucoma. The device is registered for use in the UK and there are multiple clinical studies across Europe that have demonstrated that it has a strong efficacy and safety profile.

Newmedica consultant ophthalmologist Richard Lee carried out the procedure. ‘Unlike most other MIGS where you have to put an implant or stent into the eye, this uses a laser to make the channel,’ he says.

‘The results show that it stabilises pressure at about eight years of follow-up and keeps it pretty stable with minimal use of glaucoma drops afterwards.’

The patient was fine, he adds. ‘They preferred the idea that they’re getting cataract surgery and a small laser procedure.’

Newmedica’s ability to innovate was another crucial factor. ‘The company behind ELIOS approached me about introducing the procedure – and I said that Newmedica Berkshire would be able to introduce the procedure quickly.

‘It’s been a pretty smooth process, allowing for a quicker adoption of the new technology,’ says Mr Lee. ‘I know that colleagues are interested in ELIOS as well, so it’s rewarding to be the first at Newmedica to use it in clinical practice.’