iSTAR Medical’s MINIject® demonstrates significant sustained 5-year efficacy in treating glaucoma in STAR-GLOBAL trial

# MINIject® Shows 5-Year Efficacy in Glaucoma Treatment in STAR-GLOBAL Trial

## Introduction

Glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, has long posed challenges for both patients and ophthalmologists. Traditional treatments, including eye drops and surgical interventions, often come with limitations such as poor patient compliance or invasive procedures. However, a breakthrough in glaucoma management has emerged with the **MINIject®** implant, which has demonstrated **sustained efficacy over five years** in the **STAR-GLOBAL trial**.

This article dives into the findings of the STAR-GLOBAL trial, exploring how MINIject® is revolutionizing glaucoma treatment and offering hope for long-term intraocular pressure (IOP) control.

## What is MINIject®?

MINIject® is a **minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) device** designed to reduce intraocular pressure by enhancing the natural outflow of aqueous humor. Unlike traditional glaucoma surgeries, which can be invasive and require lengthy recovery, MINIject® offers a **less traumatic alternative** with a quick recovery time.

### Key Features of MINIject®:
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Made from a **soft, biocompatible material**

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Placed in the **suprachoroidal space** to facilitate fluid drainage

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Does not require a conjunctival incision, reducing scarring risks

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Suitable for **mild to moderate glaucoma** patients

## The STAR-GLOBAL Trial: A 5-Year Milestone

The **STAR-GLOBAL trial** is a **multicenter, prospective study** evaluating the long-term safety and efficacy of MINIject® in glaucoma patients. The trial enrolled participants across several countries, ensuring diverse patient representation.

### Key Findings from the Trial:

#### 1. **Sustained IOP Reduction**
– Patients experienced an **average IOP reduction of 30%** from baseline.
– The effect remained **consistent over five years**, demonstrating long-term stability.

#### 2. **Reduced Need for Medication**
– **78% of patients** were able to reduce or eliminate glaucoma medications.
– This significantly improves **patient compliance and quality of life**.

#### 3. **High Safety Profile**
– No serious device-related adverse events were reported.
– The procedure had a **low complication rate**, with most side effects being mild and transient.

#### 4. **Minimal Impact on Corneal Health**
– Unlike some glaucoma surgeries, MINIject® did not lead to **corneal endothelial cell loss**, preserving long-term vision health.

## Why MINIject® Stands Out Among Glaucoma Treatments

Glaucoma management has evolved with the introduction of MIGS devices, but MINIject® offers several **unique advantages**:

### 1. Minimally Invasive Approach
– Traditional trabeculectomy involves **significant tissue disruption**, whereas MINIject® is inserted through a **small, self-sealing incision**.

### 2. Preservation of Conjunctival Tissue
– Since it doesn’t require conjunctival dissection, it leaves future surgical options open if needed.

### 3. Quick Recovery Time
– Patients typically resume normal activities **within days**, compared to weeks with conventional surgery.

### 4. Broad Applicability
– Effective for **open-angle glaucoma**, the most common form of the disease.

## Patient Experiences and Clinical Perspectives

### **Patient Testimonials**
Many participants in the STAR-GLOBAL trial reported:
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**Improved comfort** compared to daily eye drops

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**Reduced anxiety** about disease progression

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**Better vision stability** over time

### **Ophthalmologist Insights**
Leading glaucoma specialists involved in the trial highlighted:
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MINIject® is a **game-changer** for patients who struggle with medication adherence

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The **long-term data** supports its use as a **first-line surgical option**

## Future Implications of MINIject® in Glaucoma Care

The **five-year success** of MINIject® in the STAR-GLOBAL trial suggests a **paradigm shift** in glaucoma treatment. Future research may explore:
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Expanding its use to **more advanced glaucoma cases**

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Combining MINIject® with **other MIGS devices** for enhanced efficacy

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Investigating its role in **preventing glaucoma progression** in high-risk patients

## Conclusion

The **STAR-GLOBAL trial** has solidified MINIject® as a **safe, effective, and durable** solution for glaucoma patients. With **five years of proven success**, this MIGS device offers a **less invasive, medication-sparing alternative** that enhances both clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction.

For those struggling with glaucoma management, MINIject® represents a **new era of hope**—one where long-term vision preservation is achievable with minimal disruption to daily life.

Would you consider MINIject® for glaucoma treatment? Share your thoughts in the comments below!