Santen to acquire MIGS device

Santen reports that it plans to purchase InnFocus, developer of the MicroShunt, for $225 million.

Though late stage clinical studies are underway in the U.S., the MicroShunt received the CE Mark in 2012. Trials outside the United States have shown that the minimally invasive implant can significantly lower IOP in patients with mild to severe primary open-angle glaucoma when used alone or in combination with cataract surgery.

"In addition to reducing IOP, the MicroShunt does not require simultaneous cataract removal, unlike many MIGS technologies. The InnFocus team is very pleased to be joining Santen and its global effort to address this growing and important segment of the ophthalmic market," said Randy Lindholm, executive chairman of the Board of InnFocus.

Developed with the University of Miami's Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, the drainage implant consists of a small micro-tube made out of a biocompatible material that shunts aqueous fluid from the anterior chamber to a sub-conjunctival/sub-Tenon flap. The Microshunt is designed to maintain IOP in the mid to low teens.

The acquisition is subject to certain conditions under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of the United States.