Implandata Ophthalmic Products has successfully implanted a new version of its sensor for measuring intraocular pressure in its first patient in a first-in-human clinical trial.

The device—a thin, flexible, ring-shaped plastic implant—is used to help glaucoma patients gather pressure readings at home, and allows ophthalmologists to better track and adjust treatment regimens.

A previous version, the Eyemate-IO, received a CE mark for use in glaucoma patients undergoing cataract surgery. The new suprachoroidally placed Eyemate-SC implant is designed for patients not yet indicated for surgery, and is powered by a handheld reader placed over the eye when taking a measurement.

"The successful inclusion of the first ARGOS-SC01 study patient is a pivotal milestone for Implandata towards broadening the use of our Eyemate system, eventually allowing also standalone implantation of our proprietary eye pressure sensing devices," Implandata CEO Max Ostermeier said in a statement. The study is expected to be completed by early 2020.

Current intraocular pressure readings require an in-office procedure, and are obtained only a few times a year, while eye pressure can change throughout the day and be influenced by many factors.

The company hopes the device will improve adherence to treatments, as well as reduce the number of office visits. In addition, it could be used to gather new data on the progression of glaucoma and aid in the development of new interventions.

Based in Hannover, Germany, Implandata closed a series C fundraising round earlier this year to help commercialize its Eyemate system. While it did not disclose a specific number, it described it as a "mid-single digit million Euro amount."

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