Horizon Eye Care Is First In North Carolina To Implant DURYSTA For Glaucoma

On Tuesday, June 23, 2020, Dr. Randall N. Stein performed the first procedure implanting the DURYSTA™ sustained-release drug delivery system to treat glaucoma in the state of North Carolina. This is not the first time that Dr. Stein has performed cutting-edge treatments to care for patients with glaucoma. In fact, Dr. Stein was first in North Carolina to perform to two other glaucoma procedures, ensuring that Horizon physicians are known for being at the forefront of eye care treatments.

Of DURYSTA, Dr. Stein says, “I have been particularly interested in this treatment option for patients who suffer from glaucoma because it provides an alternative to topical drops. Many patients struggle to administer eye drops, and therefore do not use them as prescribed. DURYSTA helps not only to relieve discomfort but also prevent or slow vision loss caused by glaucoma by enabling doctors to easily dispense medications through the implant. In the future, this technology can be expanded to be used with many other glaucoma medications as well.”

Dr. Randall Stein performs the first DURYSTA implant procedure in North Carolina

DURYSTA

Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in March of 2020, DURYSTA is a prostaglandin analog delivery system for a single injection into the eye of a biodegradable implant that contains 10 mcg of bimatoprost. According to research, 80% of glaucoma patients do not use their prescribed topical drops as they should, either due to side effects or forgetfulness. Recognizing a need, Allergan developed DURYSTA to provide another way for doctors and patients to manage glaucoma.

Open Angle Glaucoma

Open angle glaucoma accounts for over 90% of overall glaucoma cases. This type of the disease develops slowly over time and becomes a lifelong condition. As the drainage canals clog, intraocular pressure builds, causing discomfort and vision loss. Learn more about Glaucoma on our Glaucoma page.

Ocular Hypertension

Though it is not the same as glaucoma, ocular hypertension (OHT) is also caused by fluids in the eye not draining properly. OHT, which is often symptom-free, may cause glaucoma. The best way to detect this condition is through comprehensive eye exams.

DURYSTA At Horizon Eye Care

Along with Dr. Stein, Drs. Joseph H. Krug, Jr. and Vandana R. Minnal are also glaucoma specialists at Horizon Eye Care. To determine if you are a candidate for DURYSTA, ask your Horizon physician or call 704-365-0555 for a consultation.