A Surrey First: iStent Infinite Now Available in Surrey

On 1 May 2025, Mr Neil Modi performed the first iStent Infinite procedure in Surrey — making him amongst the first surgeons in the country to offer this landmark advance in glaucoma surgery to patients in the region.

★  First iSTENT Infinite in Surrey

Glaucoma remains one of the leading causes of preventable sight loss worldwide, and for many patients, the challenge is not simply lowering intraocular pressure — it is sustaining that reduction over the long term without the burden of daily eye drops or the risks associated with more invasive filtration surgery. The iStent Infinite represents a significant step forward in meeting that challenge.

The device — the world's smallest implantable medical device cleared for glaucoma — features three stents delivered through a single, minimally invasive procedure. By creating multiple channels through the trabecular meshwork, it restores the eye's natural drainage pathway and provides a more durable and consistent reduction in pressure than its single-stent predecessor.

Why This Matters for Patients

As a minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) device, the iStent Infinite can be implanted at the time of cataract surgery or as a standalone procedure. It carries a favourable safety profile, short recovery time, and — critically — the potential to reduce or eliminate dependence on topical medications. For patients who struggle with drop adherence, experience side effects from preservatives, or who require better pressure control to protect their vision long-term, this technology opens an important new avenue of treatment.

“We are delighted to bring this technology to patients in Surrey. Being amongst the first in the country to implant the iStent Infinite reflects our commitment to offering the very latest evidence-based advances in glaucoma care. Our patients deserve access to the best that modern ophthalmology has to offer.”
— Mr Neil Modi, Consultant Ophthalmologist

A Collaborative Achievement

The success of this procedure is a reflection of outstanding teamwork. The dedicated theatre team — scrub practitioners, anaesthetic staff, and nursing colleagues — prepared meticulously to ensure the procedure ran smoothly and safely. Their expertise and professionalism were central to achieving this milestone.

The procedure was performed at Frimley Park Hospital in Surrey, and this latest development further strengthens the range of advanced ophthalmic treatments available to patients across the county and the wider region.

Looking Ahead

With glaucoma affecting an estimated 700,000 people in the UK — and many more undiagnosed — the need for effective, patient-friendly treatments is profound. The availability of the iStent Infinite in Surrey marks an important expansion of the surgical options Mr Modi is able to offer, particularly for patients in the moderate-to-advanced stages of the disease who may benefit most from enhanced aqueous outflow.

Patients wishing to discuss whether the iStent Infinite may be appropriate for their glaucoma management are encouraged to get in touch to arrange a consultation.

A huge thank you to the entire theatre team for their skill, dedication, and support in making this milestone possible.