Abstract
A slow-release device incorporating mitomycin C in poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) disks was developed using redox-polymerization techniques. A standardized preparation of this drug delivery device was attached to the Ahmed glaucoma valve (model FP7; New World Medical, Inc, Rancho Cucamonga, California). Semicircular disks (5 × 6 mm) of P(HEMA)-mitomycin C containing varying concentrations of mitomycin C per gram dry weight of the gel were attached to the lower half of an Ahmed glaucoma valve plate. Water was pumped through the modified Ahmed glaucoma valve at a rate comparable to that of aqueous humor outflow, and mitomycin C release was measured. Modified and unmodified Ahmed glaucoma valves were implanted in a rabbit model, and drug release and fibrosis were assessed after 3 months.