| abstract |
An implantable stent and method for treating ocular hypertension. In a preferred embodiment, the stent is of a shape memory polymer that has at least one expandable inflow or outflow end. The stent is introduced in a minimally invasive procedure with an inflow end positioned generally within the uveoscleral plane. In various embodiments, the outflow end of the stent is configured to extend within the subconjunctival plane generally inward of the lymphatic vessel network. A method of the invention for controlling intraocular pressure (IOP), includes directing outflows into the lymphatic vessel network, wherein the lymphatic system then will naturally controls outflows, IOP and prevent excessive lowering of intraocular pressure. |