Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) is a group of relatively new surgical techniques and devices to treat glaucoma. The procedures work by using tiny incisions to insert microscopic devices inside the eye that reduce eye pressure.

It’s a rapidly evolving field, with an increasing number of devices and procedures available.

For patients who need surgery to control their glaucoma, it is important to ensure that these new techniques result in optimal outcomes for patients.

In Australia, not all MIGS devices and procedures have been subjected to high-level studies, such as peer-reviewed, randomised controlled trials which could provide a better understanding of the long-term efficacy and safety of different treatment options.

There is also limited research into the cost-effectiveness of MIGS devices in the Australian healthcare system.

With your support, Dr Alp Atik is leading research into the safety, performance and cost-effectiveness of MIGS devices in the Australian healthcare system.

As a first step, Dr Atik and his team will prepare a systematic review of the existing MIGS scientific literature. This will involve a thorough and unbiased analysis of available studies to provide a comprehensive summary of the current evidence. After that, the team will review the cost-effectiveness of these devices in the Australian healthcare system using health economics modelling.

Dr Atik hopes the study will be used to guide Australian health policy in glaucoma.

“The more we learn about MIGS techniques, the better we can help health policymakers make informed decisions about the best treatment strategies,’’ he says.

“Ultimately, improved decision-making means more Australians with glaucoma can receive the most effective treatment.

“I sincerely thank CERA’s donors for supporting my research to achieve better outcomes for people with glaucoma and our broader health system.”

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