Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate Capillary Strip

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Abstract
A new drainage device of hydrophilic plastic, hydroxyethyl methacrylate (Hydron), is partially inserted in the anterior chamber. The strip swells and softens on hydration to plug the surgical incision. Parallel "capillary" channels in the strip permit passage of particulate matter and slow drainage of fluid. Implantation of the hydroxyethyl methacrylate capillary strip in 64 rabbit eyes did not result in hypotony but significantly mitigated elevation of intraocular pressure following subconjunctival injection of 15% sodium chloride solution. Control (not operated on) eyes responded to this provocation with marked elevation of pressure. Basal pressure-lowering effect in normal eyes was related to the dimensions of the implants. All implants were retained with filtering blebs and apparently perfect tolerance when observed for one to nine months. For over six months, 50 eyes were followed. Histological examination at all stages showed virtual absence of inflammatory reaction.