Breakthrough in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma Treatment: The OMNI Surgical System

By Barbara Leschinsky

Edited by Or Aviv

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Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease caused by damage to the optic nerve. In the early stages, individuals experience no symptoms. Over time, they begin to lose their peripheral vision, and if left untreated, they may eventually lose their entire vision. Treatment for glaucoma does not cure the disease; rather, it prevents further progression. One of the most common types of glaucoma is primary open-angle glaucoma, which initially causes peripheral vision loss and can eventually lead to central vision loss.

 

​​​​​​​​​​​When an individual has primary open-angle glaucoma, their eye cannot properly drain fluids. This buildup of fluids leads to ocular hypertension. In 2020, the number of adults (ages 40-80) with primary open-angle glaucoma was estimated to be approximately 52.68 million, with that number expected to rise to 79.76 million by 2040 (Zhang et al., 2021).

 

The traditional and most common treatment for primary open-angle glaucoma is prescription eye drops. These drops help drain fluids from the eye, ultimately relieving intraocular pressure. However, a recent 36-month study conducted by Sight Sciences suggests that there may be a more effective long-term treatment for primary open-angle glaucoma.

 

A study published on January 7, 2025, and led by Nathan M. Radcliffe, MD, of Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, utilized data from the American Academy of Ophthalmology IRIS Registry. It examined the long-term effectiveness of the OMNI Surgical System in managing primary open-angle glaucoma.

 

The study analyzed 230 eyes from 196 adult patients with primary open-angle glaucoma over a 36-month period. These patients underwent a minimally invasive glaucoma surgery known as OMNI. The OMNI procedure is designed to reduce intraocular pressure and does not require implants. It can be performed with or without cataract surgery, a commonly performed procedure that involves replacing a cloudy lens in the eye with an artificial lens.

 

After 36 months, researchers observed significant reductions in intraocular pressure. Since the surgery was performed at the beginning of the study, these results indicate that intraocular pressure was successfully reduced for up to 36 months post-surgery. The average reductions ranged from 5.6 to 7.1 mmHg. Additionally, patients reported using less medication for up to 18 months following surgery. Before surgery, the average intraocular pressure was approximately 22.1 mmHg (with a standard deviation of 6.4 mmHg). After surgery, intraocular pressure ranged from 15.1 to 16.7 mmHg, with patients who had the highest pre-surgery intraocular pressure experiencing the most significant reductions. For reference, normal intraocular pressure is considered to be between 10 and 21 mmHg.

 

Following the study, Paul Badawi, president and CEO of Sight Sciences, stated, “We are excited to see such compelling evidence highlighting OMNI’s long-term impact. This study further strengthens the extensive body of clinical data that supports the safety and efficacy of the OMNI procedure. It reinforces our commitment to delivering innovative, data-driven interventional technologies that empower physicians to elevate patient care. OMNI continues to set new standards in minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, driving our mission to transform eye care for the millions affected by glaucoma.”

 

This study presents promising new potential for improved treatment options for individuals suffering from primary open-angle glaucoma.