Preserflo and dry-eye ointments

[KayGeeBee]

I have just noticed that on the post-surgery Preserflo card that I was given it says "The PRESERFLO MicroShunt must not come into direct contact with topical treatments (e.g. ointments) that contain petrolatum (petroleum jelly)."

For dry eye I was prescribed HYLO-night, which, amongst its ingredients are liquid paraffin and light liquid paraffin.

Is the key word "direct"? i.e. the ointment can be used providing that it doesn't directly touch the Preserflo, which is actually embeded in my eye, or is the ointment contra-indicated if I have a Preserflo?

Does anyone else with a Preserflo use ointments containing paraffin?

[KieranGlaucomaUK Administrator]

Hi there. We have not heard of this being an issue but we are not sure to be honest. It would be best to check with your consultant for further details.

[Astilbe]

I have a presserflo shunt, inserted 4 years ago. I don't recall being told or have read anything about hyloforte night. I was prescribed it for dry eye by the eye hospital for a time (it didn't) help). So I assume it is safe. I have had dozens of appointments since nobody ever mentioned it.

[Moana64]

I had Preserflo Microshunt March 2023, for during the day for dry eyes I use “Systane Hydration “, and before I go to sleep I put “Viscotears” eye gel along my eyelids and this usually lasts thru the night. This all works well. Good luck, let us know how this goes

[Machicado]

I had my Preserflo inserted a year ago. I use Hyloforte drops in the day and Hycosan ointment/gel at night. Never been told not to do so but it would be good if Glaucoma UK could get a definitive answer on this.

[muddledme]

Hello KayGeeBee,

Thank you, I had not thought about medicines that may interfere with the shunts.

So I quickly looked at my current eye lubricants . I have had various types since two Preserflos were implanted in 2020 and 2021.

Some of the gel lubricants I found very difficult to use and ineffective.

Now I find Thealoz Duo Gel at night means I rarely need many drops during the day , if I do use anything it is then Thealoz Duo UD . Luckily neither of these medicines contain petroleum. These drops have some ".....natural substances found in many plants and animals which need to survive in extreme conditions of temperature and dryness. It provides protective and hydrating properties."

It would be interesting to hear your opthalmic surgeon's comments, meanwhile I hope you find an effective lubricant.

[KayGeeBee]

I contacted Santen, the manufacturer of Preserflo, to ask about this. I was given an answer but their confidentiality notice forbids me from sharing it without their permission, which I haven't been able to obtain.

Their UK contact form is at santen.uk/contact if anyone wishes to ask the question themselves.