Abstract: A method of preventing nerve damage positional injury during surgery includes providing a nerve damage positional injury pressure monitoring system including a site sensor with a transducer in the form of a transducer element and a ring extending outward from the transducer element, and a monitor connected to the site sensor; adhering the ring of the site sensor to the patient so that the transducer element forms a protective barrier in front of the area of the patient prone to nerve damage positional injury during surgery; using the system to continuously monitor pressure on the protective barrier formed by the transducer element in front of the area of the patient prone to nerve damage positional injury during surgery with the site sensor and monitor; and causing an alarm to be actuated to alert medical personnel of a pressure condition when monitored pressure is greater than a predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A sensor for measuring pressure within anatomical structures has an impulse mechanism for delivering a mechanical impulse to the anatomical structure and a sensing mechanism for monitoring a mechanical response of the anatomical structure to the impulse. The sensor has application in measuring Intra-Ocular Pressure (IOP). The sensor may also be applied for measuring/pressures within other anatomical structures such as the heart or blood vessels. In one embodiment the impulse mechanism comprises a voice coil and the sensing mechanism comprises a piezoelectric film that generates a signal when it is distorted by motion of the anatomical structure.

Abstract: A sensor and method of use thereof for continuously measuring intraocular pressure (IOP) is disclosed. The sensor is designed to be adhered to the sclera of an eye and may be passive or active, with or without flash memory or other data storage media. The sensor includes a pressure monitoring device that abuts the sclera and generates a signal that may be correlated to IOP. The sensor then transmits this signal to either a receiver in a base unit or to flash memory within the sensor. In exemplary embodiments the pressure monitoring device includes a strain array and/or a resonant circuit, but any pressure monitoring device may be used. In one embodiment the sensor includes a microprocessor unit that controls the other electrical components of the sensor and directly interrogates the pressure monitoring device for a each IOP measurement.

Abstract: A non-contact tonometer changes a reference signal used for determining reliability of a signal indicating deformation of a cornea based on the reflectance of the cornea of an eye to be examined. Thus, the non-contact tonometer can perform stable measurement irrespective of the reflectance of the cornea of the eye to be examined.

Abstract: Multi-functional optometric-ophthalmic system for testing, diagnosing, or treating, vision or eyes of a subject, and methodologies thereof. Includes: a head mountable unit, including a head mounting assembly, and at least one near eye module assembly (NEMa), mounted upon the head mounting assembly, for generating optical processes or effects which act or take place upon, and are affected by, at least one eye of the subject, and for receiving results of the optical processes or effects from the at least one eye, as part of the testing, diagnosing, or treating of the vision or eyes of the subject; and a central controlling and processing unit. Near eye module assembly includes: a micro-display (?display), a first lens assembly (L1a), and a refraction correction assembly (RCa). Generally applicable for performing a wide variety of different optometric and ophthalmic tests, diagnoses, and treatments, of a subject's vision or eyes.

Abstract: A telemetry method and apparatus using pressure sensing elements remotely located from associated pick-up, and processing units for the sensing and monitoring of pressure within an environment. This includes remote pressure sensing apparatus incorporating a magnetically-driven resonator being hermetically-sealed within an encapsulating shell or diaphragm and associated new method of sensing pressure. The resonant structure of the magnetically-driven resonator is suitable for measuring quantities convertible to changes in mechanical stress or mass. The resonant structure can be integrated into pressure sensors, adsorbed mass sensors, strain sensors, and the like. The apparatus and method provide information by utilizing, or listening for, the residence frequency of the oscillating resonator. The resonant structure listening frequencies of greatest interest are those at the mechanical structure's fundamental or harmonic resonant frequency.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring intraocular pressure of an eye use an empirically derived function wherein an inward applanation pressure P1 and an outward applanation pressure P2 obtained during a corneal deformation cycle caused by a fluid pulse are separately weighted so as to minimize cornea-related influence on the intraocular pressure value calculated by the function. In one embodiment, the function is optimized, at least in part, to minimize change in calculated IOP between measurements made before surgical alteration of the cornea and measurements made after surgical alteration of the cornea.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the system described herein provide non-invasive intraocular pressure monitoring throughout an extended period. Such monitoring systems can be used for the diagnosis and management of glaucoma patients and those at risk for glaucoma. In some embodiments, the monitoring system provides intraocular pressure monitoring in the patient's normal environment without the need to house the patient in a sleep laboratory.

Abstract: A system is provided for monitoring intraocular pressure, the system comprising: a sensor package configured to be disposed in the suprachoroidal space of a patient's eye; a pressure sensor; a wireless transceiver disposed within the sensor package and coupled to the pressure sensor; an external transceiver, the external receiver being wirelessly coupled to the wireless transceiver when the transceiver is disposed proximate to the patient's eye.

Abstract: An instrument has been designed to study the pulsatile motion of the eye by analysis of a beam of light reflected from the corneal surface. A laser light beam probe of small spot size and low divergence strikes the cornea apex and the reflected movement is recorded by a sensor. Analysis of the beam movement reveals the energy in the eye pulse without the necessity of physically touching the eye. The value of the intraocular pressure is determined from the calculated power spectrum. The sensitivity, accuracy and efficiency of the light beam makes possible studying both eyes concurrently and comparison of the pulse parameters of onset, amplitude and duration reveals any delay in circulation to an eye.

Abstract: System and apparatus for measuring pressure comprising a microelectronic device, an interface member attached to the microelectronic device, a pressure sensor having a diaphragm responsive to external pressure exerted upon the diaphragm, wherein the interface member is positioned between the microelectronic device and the pressure sensor and is attached to the pressure sensor providing a first cavity between the pressure sensor diaphragm and the interface member and wherein the pressure in the first cavity is set at an initial predetermined pressure.

Abstract: A variable capacitor, a microfabricated implantable pressure sensor including a variable capacitor and an inductor, and related pressure measurement and implantation methods. The inductor may have a fixed or variable inductance. A variable capacitor and pressure sensors include a flexible member that is disposed on a substrate and defines a chamber. Capacitor elements extend indirectly from the flexible member. Sufficient fluidic pressure applied to an exterior surface of the flexible member causes the flexible member to move or deform, thus causing the capacitance and/or inductance to change. Resulting changes in resonant frequency or impedance can be detected to determine pressure, e.g., intraocular pressure.

Abstract: A method of preventing eye-related positional injuries during spinal surgery includes providing an orbital area pressure monitoring system including a site sensor with transducer, and a monitor connected to the site sensor; using the orbital area pressure monitoring system to continuously monitor pressure on an orbital area of the patient with the site sensor and monitor; and causing an alarm to be actuated to alert medical personnel of a pressure condition when monitored pressure is greater than a predetermined threshold.

Abstract: The disclosed methods and systems use measured values from applanation tonometry and pachymetry, and corneal curvature values to produce corrected values of intraocular pressure to diagnose and treat pressure related eye diseases.

Abstract: A noncontact tonometer is disclosed that stores, into a storage unit, the image of an anterior ocular segment immediately before an intraocular pressure value is measured, and that, if an anomaly is found in the measurement result, facilitates the specification of the reason of the anomaly by automatically displaying the image of the anterior ocular segment that was acquired in advance.

Abstract: A new noninvasive approach for intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement allowing continuous monitoring over prolonged periods, regardless of patient's position and activities. The key element of this measurement method is a soft contact lens (1) including at least one strain gage (2) longitudinally arranged around the center of the contact lens and capable of measuring precisely spherical deformations of the eyeball induced by the changes in IOP. This information is transmitted with wires or (preferably) wirelessly in real time to an external recording system (14). The system is placed in the same way as a normal corrective contact lens, no anesthesia is required and patient vision remains almost completely unimpaired.

Abstract: An implantable intraocular pressure sensor device for detecting excessive intraocular pressure above a predetermined threshold pressure is disclosed. The device includes a pressure switch that is sized and configured to be placed in an eye, wherein said pressure switch is activated when the intraocular pressure is higher than the predetermined threshold pressure. The device is optically powered and transmits data wirelessly using optical energy. In one embodiment, the pressure sensor device is a micro electromechanical system.

Abstract: A method for measuring a biomechanical characteristic of corneal tissue of a cornea comprises the steps of measuring a geometric parameter of the cornea, measuring hysteresis associated with deformation of the cornea, and evaluating the measured geometric parameter and hysteresis. In an ophthalmic system for practicing the method, a pachometer is used to measure corneal thickness and a tonometer is used to measure hysteresis, and the measurement data is supplied to a computer for evaluation. A related method for prequalifying LASIK patients comprises the steps of establishing a multi-dimensional space wherein a first dimension is a geometric corneal parameter and a second dimension is hysteresis associated with corneal deformation, measuring the geometric corneal parameter and hysteresis of the patient's cornea, registering the geometric corneal parameter and corneal hysteresis in a data point in the multi-dimensional space, and evaluating a location of the data point in the multi-dimensional space.

Abstract: An improved applanation tonometer for measuring the intraocular pressure of an eye is configured for use with a conventional slit lamp. This applanation tonometer has a force sensor that senses the force applied by an applanation probe to flatten the cornea of the eye, while the cornea is viewed through the probe using the slit lamp. The force sensor generates a signal that corresponds to the applanation force and transmits the signal to a display and/or a data storage device.

Abstract: An improved punctum plug is more easily visualized when positioned within a punctual canal of a recipient. The body of the plug features an outwardly exposed surface when properly positioned, and a substance causing at least the outwardly exposed surface to contrast with surrounding tissue, such that the use of the substance causes the plug to be more easily visualized than if the substance were not present. The substance, which may be disposed on the outwardly exposed surface or within the body of the plug, may include a saturated coloration, or may be phosphorescent, fluorescent or otherwise operative to reflect or re-radiate light to assist in visualization. For example, the substance may include an organic or inorganic phosphor or fluorescent material, reflective beads, quantum dots, a dye or pigment. Such reflection or re-radiation may occur at the same or different wavelength(s) compared to the illumination wavelength(s), whether or not either or both are within the visible part of the spectrum.

Abstract: An applanation tonometry system, for measuring pressure within an eye, the tonometry system comprising: an applanation tonometer device for providing specific applanation pressure to a plurality of locations on an eye; an electrical process controller for measuring pressure within the eye; and a tonometer hands free holder adapted to secure the tonometer device over the eye whilst measuring the pressure within the eye.

Abstract: An implantable miniaturized pressure sensor integrates a capacitor and an inductor in one small chip, forming a resonant LC circuit having a Q value of 10 or greater. The capacitor has an upper capacitor plate and a lower capacitor plate disposed proximate thereof. The upper and lower capacitor plates are connected to one or more spiral inductor coils. The sensor is micromachined from silicon to form a thin and robust membrane disposed on top of the upper capacitor plate. The sensor is hermetically sealed and the membrane is deflected relative to the upper capacitor plate by an external fluid, gas, or mechanical pressure. The resonant frequency of the sensor can be remotely monitored and continuously measured with an external detector pick up coil disposed proximate the sensor. The sensor can be smaller than 2×2×0.5 mm and is particularly useful for intraocular applications.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device and method for monitoring the flow of aqueous humor within the eye. The invention provides that the aqueous flow rate and/or pattern within the anatomical structures of the eye can be determined by monitoring a traceable component. Such determination provides diagnostic indications of the degree and location of ocular disease associated with aqueous outflow, such as glaucoma, and can further provide post-treatment indications of effectiveness.

Abstract: A MEMS chip sensor (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70) based upon detection of an induced inductance in the sensor is described. The sensor is used in an environment for detection of fluid pressures. The method and system is particularly used in animals, including humans, to sense pressure changes, particularly pressure in the eyeball.

Abstract: A dual mode non-contact tonometer allows selection between a standard measurement mode for patient comfort and an alternate measurement mode wherein pressure-time characteristics of the fluid pulse are varied to allow additional observation of corneal hysteresis associated with the dynamic measurement process. In the alternate measurement mode, measured intraocular pressure corresponding to inward applanation of the cornea and corneal hysteresis derived from a pressure differential associated with inward and outward applanation events in the same measurement pulse allows comparison with a predetermined population normality function to avoid corneal effects so that the actual status of intraocular pressure can be ascertained.

Abstract: A tonometer for measuring the intraocular pressure (IOP) of an eye through the eyelid of an individual, i.e., in a non-invasive manner, includes a frame, a strain gage mounted with respect to the frame for measuring a force, a linear variable displacement transducer mounted with respect to the frame, and a processing unit in communication with the strain gage and the linear variable displacement transducer. The linear variable displacement transducer communicates with an axially movable sensing tip for measuring a distance. The processing unit operates to (i) time-synchronize signals received from the strain gage and the linear variable displacement transducer, and (ii) identify a change in the relationship between time-synchronized measurements of the force and distance. The change in the force/distance relationship correlates with the intraocular pressure of a patient and may be observed as an inflection or trough-like area in a force-distance graph.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus and systems for measuring pressure and/or for quantitative or qualitative measurement of analytes within the eye or elsewhere in the body. Optical pressure sensors and/or optical analyte sensors are implanted in the body and light is cast from an extracorporeal light source, though the cornea, conjunctiva or dermis, and onto a reflective element located within each pressure sensor or analyte sensor. The position or configuration of each sensor's reflective element varies with pressure or analyte concentration. Thus, the reflectance spectra of light reflected by the sensors' reflective elements will vary with changes in pressure or changes in analyte concentration. A spectrometer or other suitable instrument is used to process and analyze the reflectance spectra of the reflected light, thereby obtaining an indication of pressure or analyte concentration adjacent to the sensor(s).

Abstract: An improved applanation tonometer for measuring the intraocular pressure of an eye is configured for use with a conventional slit lamp. This applanation tonometer has a force sensor that senses the force applied by an applanation probe to flatten the cornea of the eye, while the cornea is viewed through the probe using the slit lamp. The force sensor generates a signal that corresponds to the applanation force and transmits the signal to a display and/or a data storage device.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for measuring physical quantities in the eye, especially for measuring the intraocular pressure. The inventive device comprises a foldable telemetry system containing a coil (1) which is flatly arranged on a foldable support. Said coil is completely embedded in the biocompatible implant material together with an electronic mobile (4) that contains the electronic of the telemetry system.

Abstract: A new noninvasive approach for intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement allowing continuous monitoring over prolonged periods, regardless of patient's position and activities. The key element of this measurement method is a soft contact lens (1) including at least one strain gage (2) longitudinally arranged around the center of the contact lens and capable of measuring precisely spherical deformations of the eyeball induced by the changes in IOP. This information is transmitted with wires or (preferably) wirelessly in real time to an external recording system (14). The system is placed in the same way as a normal corrective contact lens, no anesthesia is required and patient vision remains almost completely unimpaired.

Abstract: An applanation tonometry system, for measuring pressure within an eye, the tonometry system comprising: an applanation tonometer device for providing specific applanation pressure to a plurality of locations on an eye; an electrical process controller for measuring pressure within the eye; and a tonometer hands free holder adapted to secure the tonometer device over the eye whilst measuring the pressure within the eye.

Abstract: The invention concerns a combination of a microscope with a measurement device, in particular a diagnostic device, that is usable during an operation on or examination of a specimen performed with the microscope. During the operation or examination, specimen data that are ascertained or determined by the measurement device are directly displayable in the microscope as an optical signal. In the event the measured data of the specimen exceed or fall below threshold values and/or interval values, a warning signal is triggerable by way of which further actions, such as shutdown or switchover actions, can be automatically executed as applicable.

Abstract: An optically powered and optically data-transmitting wireless intraocular pressure sensor device for detecting excessive intraocular pressure above a predetermined threshold pressure, comprising a pressure switch that is sized and configured to be placed in an eye, wherein said pressure switch is activated when the intraocular pressure is higher than the predetermined threshold pressure. In one embodiment, the pressure sensor device is a micro electromechanical system.

Abstract: An applanation tonometer with a replaceable prism for contacting a cornea has emitter and detector ports arranged opposite each other on opposite sides of a longitudinal axis, with the ports aimed at about 45° to the longitudinal axis. Light from an emitter confronting one of the ports is incident on the applanation surface at about 45° so that light reflecting internally of the prism from the applanation surface is directed toward the opposite port for detection. The portion of the light internally reflected from the applanation surface provides a signal indicating the size of the applanated area, from which intraocular pressure is determined.

Abstract: A method of performing a LASIK procedure. The method includes providing LASIK instrumentation, preferably including an automated microkeratome instrument and an excimer laser. The microkeratome device includes both a microkeratome as well as a suction ring. A high-pressure range tonometer instrument is also provided. The tonometer includes a probe for sensing a parameter of the eye indicative of intraocular pressure, and is capable of providing intraocular pressure measurements in excess of 80 mm Hg; more preferably in excess of 100 mm Hg; most preferably up to or in excess of 120 mm Hg. The suction ring is positioned over the patient's eye, and a vacuum applied. The high-pressure range tonometer probe is positioned relative to the eye so as to sense a parameter indicative of intraocular pressure. The measured intraocular pressure is then provided to the surgeon.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of monitoring/measuring intraocular pressure in an eye includes a miniature pressure sensor having an attachment for connecting the miniature pressure sensor to the iris of the eye or an intraocular lens. The miniature pressure sensor is preferably a Polysilicon Resonant Transducer (PRT).

Abstract: An apparatus for calibrating a non-contact tonometer comprises an electronic eye having a damped pressure sensor for receiving a tonometer air pulse and providing a pressure signal in response to the air pulse, and an applanation simulator connected to the pressure sensor for providing a pseudo-applanation event when the pressure signal reaches a predetermined level corresponding to a known IOP measurement standard. A method for calibrating a non-contact tonometer using the inventive calibration apparatus is also described.

Abstract: Noninvasive methods and apparatuses measuring the intraocular pressure (IOP) of the eye using vibratory excitation are disclosed. Prior art methods teaches that the natural frequencies of the eye vary as a function of the IOP, with each natural frequency being zero at zero IOP. The present invention recognizes that the eye has different and separate classes of natural frequencies that vary as function of the IOP, which have non-zero values for a zero value of IOP, and which have curves that extrapolate to negative IOPs to obtain zero values of frequency. Preferred methods and apparatuses of the present invention measure a first natural frequency of this class at an unknown IOP value, and thereafter compare it to one or more known values of the first natural frequency measured at corresponding known IOPs to estimate value of the unknown IOP. Preferred embodiments include measuring one or more additional natural frequencies.

Abstract: A dual mode non-contact tonometer allows selection between a standard measurement mode for patient comfort and an alternate measurement mode wherein pressure-time characteristics of the fluid pulse are varied to allow additional observation of corneal hysteresis associated with the dynamic measurement process. In the alternate measurement mode, measured intraocular pressure corresponding to inward applanation of the cornea and corneal hysteresis derived from a pressure differential associated with inward and outward applanation events in the same measurement pulse allows comparison with a predetermined population normality function to avoid corneal effects so that the actual status of intraocular pressure can be ascertained.

Abstract: A non-contact tonometer of a type having a cylinder, a piston received by the cylinder for axially directed movement relative to the cylinder, and a driven member for causing the piston to move relative to the cylinder in a compression stroke to generate a fluid pulse for transfiguring a cornea is improved by decoupling the piston from the driven member to eliminate the need for critical alignment between the driven member and piston and allow the piston to be self-aligning with respect to the cylinder.

Abstract: A device for passively measuring intraocular pressure of a patient including an in vivo sensor and an instrument external to the patient for remotely energizing the sensor, thereby permitting the instrument to determine the intraocular pressure. The device directly and continuously measures the intraocular pressure of a patient. The in vivo sensor in the intraocular pressure monitor includes a capacitive pressure sensor and an inductive component. An instrument, external to the patient, measures the pressure, provides readout of the pressure values and determines the intraocular pressure.

Abstract: A non-contact tonometer comprises a fluid pump system having a linear proportional solenoid for driving a piston of the fluid pump system to generate a fluid pulse in a predetermined and controlled manner. The energizing current to the linear proportional solenoid is dictated by data stored in a digital look-up table.

Abstract: Noninvasive methods and apparatuses measuring the intraocular pressure (IOP) of the eye using vibratory excitation are disclosed. Prior art methods teaches that the natural frequencies of the eye vary as a function of the IOP, with each natural frequency being zero at zero IOP. The present invention recognizes that the eye has different and separate classes of natural frequencies that vary as function of the IOP, which have non-zero values for a zero value of IOP, and which have curves that extrapolate to negative IOPs to obtain zero values of frequency. Preferred methods and apparatuses of the present invention measure a first natural frequency of this class at an unknown IOP value, and thereafter compare it to one or more known values of the first natural frequency measured at corresponding known IOPs to estimate value of the unknown IOP. Preferred embodiments include measuring one or more additional natural frequencies.

Abstract: An intraocular pressure measuring device including a pressure sensor that is dimensioned to be placed in a cornea or sclera. An intraocular pressure measuring system that includes a pressure sensor positioned in a cornea or sclera and an external device outside the eye, the external device wirelessly communicating with the pressure sensor. A method for measuring intraocular pressure that includes inserting a pressure sensor in a cornea or sclera and sensing intraocular pressure. An ophthalmic device that includes an exoplant and an intraocular pressure sensor connected to the exoplant. An ophthalmic instrument that includes a device adapted to wirelessly interrogate a medical apparatus implanted in the cornea or sclera. A propagating signal for determining intraocular pressure is also described.

Abstract: A bioinert implantable shunt device useful for controlling internal pressure includes a valve apparatus, a device for attaching the valve apparatus and an inlet tube. The valve apparatus includes an inlet port, an outlet port, a flexible tube connected therebetween and a pressurized enclosure. The flexible tube is positioned inside the pressurized enclosure whereby fluid flow from the inlet port to the outlet port is dependent on a differential pressure between a pressure in the flexible tube and a pressure outside the flexible tube in the pressurized enclosure. The inlet tube is connected to the inlet port of the valve apparatus. The pressurized enclosure may include a housing and a semi-permeable membrane in a wall of the housing whereby fluid can pass through the semi-permeable membrane into the pressurized enclosure thereby increasing the pressure in the pressurized enclosure. The implantable shunt device may be for use in the treatment of glaucoma.

Abstract: The present invention provides a shunt for the flow of aqueous humor from the anterior chamber of the eye to Schlemm's canal. The device comprises at least one lumen and optionally has at least one anchor extending from the proximal portion within the anterior chamber to assist in placement and anchoring of the device in the correct anatomic position.

Abstract: Disclosed are a remote pressure-monitoring device and a preparing method thereof. The device comprises a metal electrode on a glass substrate, a capacitive sensor made of a silicon diaphragm, and an electroplated inductor electrically connected, in parallel, with the sensor. The glass substrate and the silicon are electrically bonded to form an LC resonator. For the fabrication of the device, first, a metal electrode which plays a role as a lower electrode for a capacitive pressure sensor is deposited on the glass substrate with the same coefficient of thermal expansion as that of silicon. An inductor is formed at a thickness by copper electroplating, surrounding the metal electrode at a predetermined distance. A silicon substrate is anisotropically etched to form a space for enveloping the metal electrode at a central area and to form a groove around the space.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring the intraocular pressure of a cornea includes an interferometer directing a beam of a coherent light along a path to the cornea, a sensor for sensing the reflected light from the cornea, an air supply device for directing puffs of air to the cornea in alignment with the beam to cause the surface of the cornea to be artificially displaced and means for measuring variations of light intensity reaching the sensor.

Abstract: An applanation tonometer with a replaceable prism for contacting a cornea has emitter and detector ports arranged opposite each other on opposite sides of a longitudinal axis, with the ports aimed at about 45° to the longitudinal axis. Light from an emitter then passes through the emitter port and crosses the prism axis to be incident and reflected from an emitter-reflecting surface of the prism and become incident on the applanation surface. Light reflected from the applanation surface is incident on and reflected from a detector-reflecting surface opposite and parallel with the emitter-reflecting surface to proceed across the prism axis to the detector port. Such an arrangement produces reliable applanation signals and varies the spacial intensity of light reflected from the applanation surface so that the tonometer can automatically distinguish between concentric and eccentric contact of the applanation surface with a cornea.

Abstract: A device and method are provided for improved treatment of elevated intraocular pressure due to glaucoma. A trabecular shunting device is adapted for implantation within the trabecular meshwork of an eye such that aqueous humor flows controllably from the anterior chamber of the eye to Schlemm's canal, bypassing the trabecular meshwork. The trabecular shunting device may utilize a quantity of pharmaceuticals effective in treating glaucoma, which are controllably released from the device into cells of the trabecular meshwork and/or Schlemm's canal. Depending upon the specific treatment contemplated, pharmaceuticals may be utilized in conjunction with the trabecular shunting device such that aqueous flow either increases or decreases as desired. Placement of the trabecular shunting device within the eye, and release of a glaucoma medication therefrom, can arrest or slow the progression of glaucoma.