Modeling and optimizing passive valve designs for the implantable Gold Micro-Shunt used in glaucoma treatment

Glaucoma is an age-related eye disease that causes ocular nerve damage, typically characterized by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Studies have shown that IOP can vary significantly on the order of days or even hours. Failure to control IOP spikes in this time-frame can lead to irreversible damage to the optic nerve and blindness. The proposed drainage device combines a passive check-valve with the implantable Gold Micro-Shunt to regulate flow based on changing IOP. Using finite element analysis, we examined the mechanical behavior of different valve designs and their flow characteristics. Two designs were found to provide desirable flow resistance.